What Happened This Year 1964

People Who Died in 1964

James Franck

German physicist and Nobel laureate
Born
August 26th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1964 60 years ago — 81 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of physics, focusing on atomic and molecular interactions. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1925 for the Franck-Hertz experiment, which demonstrated the quantized nature of atomic energy levels. Held a position as a professor at the University of Göttingen and later emigrated to the United States, where continued academic work at various institutions. Engaged in research that informed advancements in quantum mechanics and atomic structure.

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Ruben Oskar Auervaara

Finnish fraudster and swindler
Born
September 4th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1964 60 years ago — 57 years old

In the early 20th century, this individual engaged in fraudulent schemes primarily in Finland. Known for orchestrating various scams, his activities led to significant financial losses for his victims. Involved in multiple legal cases, he faced prosecution and imprisonment for his actions. The fraudulent operations showcased his ability to manipulate circumstances for personal gain, ultimately impacting both individuals and businesses. Auervaara's notoriety stemmed from his clever tactics and deceptive practices that characterized his career.

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Jawaharlal Nehru

Indian Politician, 1st Prime Minister of India
Born
November 14th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1964 60 years ago — 74 years old

An influential lawyer and politician, served as the first Prime Minister of India from 1947 until death in 1964. Played a crucial role in India's independence movement and in shaping the newly independent nation. Worked towards establishing a secular and democratic society, and focused on modernization and industrialization of India. Spoke at numerous international forums, advocating for non-alignment during the Cold War period and promoting the principles of peaceful coexistence.

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Leó Szilárd

Physicist and engineer, Manhattan Project
Born
1898 127 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1964 60 years ago — 66 years old

A Hungarian-American physicist and engineer who contributed significantly to nuclear physics. Played a crucial role in the development of the atomic bomb as part of the Manhattan Project during World War II. Developed the concept of a nuclear chain reaction and patented the idea of a nuclear reactor. Later advocated for the peaceful use of atomic energy and warned against nuclear proliferation.

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Frans Eemil Sillanpää

Finnish author and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 16th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1964 60 years ago — 75 years old

Born in Finland, this author gained recognition for literary works that explored themes of nature and human existence. The writing style often intertwined personal experiences with cultural observations, reflecting Finnish rural life. The acclaimed novel 'Hurskas Kurjuus' garnered attention for its vivid depictions of hardship and resilience. In 1939, received the Nobel Prize in Literature, highlighting the significance of contributions to world literature. The legacy includes numerous works that continue to influence both Finnish literature and the broader literary community.

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Kâzım Orbay

Turkish General and Speaker of Parliament
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1964 60 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent Turkish general and politician served as the 9th Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey. Played a significant role in Turkey's War of Independence and held key military positions. Engaged in politics post-independence, contributing to the establishment of the Turkish Republic. His leadership in the assembly influenced legislative developments during the early Republican period. Had a significant impact on Turkish military and political affairs during a transformative era in Turkey's history.

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Max Aitken

Canadian-English businessman and politician
Born
May 25th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1964 60 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent businessman and politician, significant contributions included serving as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and involvement in various media and publishing ventures. Established himself in the newspaper industry with the founding of the Daily Express. Engaged actively in politics, particularly during the Second World War, supporting British war efforts through publishing and political advocacy. Played a critical role in the establishment of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, facilitating communication and media development in Canada.

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Giorgio Morandi

Italian painter of still life works
Born
July 20th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1964 60 years ago — 73 years old

Born in Italy, Morandi focused on still life painting, achieving notable recognition for his unique approach to composition and color. His works often featured ordinary objects, such as bottles, vases, and landscapes, rendered in a subtle color palette. Morandi developed a distinctive style characterized by simplicity and a meditative quality, influencing the modern still life genre. Throughout his career, he remained dedicated to his artistic practice, exhibiting widely in Italy and abroad. His contributions to art were recognized through numerous exhibitions, and he became a prominent figure in 20th-century art.

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James Chaney

Civil Rights Activist and Freedom Rider
Born
May 30th, 1943 81 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1964 60 years ago — 21 years old

An American civil rights activist contributed to the fight against racial segregation and discrimination in the United States during the 1960s. Born in 1943, involvement in the civil rights movement began at a young age, participating in Freedom Rides and voter registration drives. In 1964, Chaney traveled to Mississippi to support the voter registration campaign as part of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). His disappearance and murder during this time highlighted the risks faced by civil rights activists and garnered national attention, serving as a catalyst for further activism and reform.

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