What Happened This Year 1964

People Who Died in 1964

Claude V. Ricketts

American admiral and military leader
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1964 60 years ago — 58 years old

Served in the United States Navy for over three decades, achieving the rank of admiral. Played key roles during World War II, particularly in naval operations in the Pacific theater. Commanded various naval vessels and participated in numerous significant battles, demonstrating strategic naval leadership. Contributed to post-war naval policies and training programs, influencing naval operations beyond his active duty years.

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Lillian Copeland

Discus thrower and shot putter
Born
November 25th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1964 60 years ago — 59 years old

Competed in track and field, specializing in discus throw and shot put. Achieved significant recognition in the 1920s and 1930s. Won a silver medal in the discus at the 1932 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Set multiple national records in both discus and shot put throughout her athletic career.

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Rauf Orbay

Turkish politician, Prime Minister
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1964 60 years ago — 83 years old

Served as a military officer during World War I and played a significant role in the Turkish War of Independence. Held the position of Prime Minister of Turkey for a brief period in the 1920s. Contributed to the establishment of the Republic of Turkey and was involved in early Turkish politics as a member of various political parties. Worked towards defining the country's political framework in the post-World War I era and participated in the founding of the Great National Assembly of Turkey.

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Francis Curzon

English race car driver and politician
Born
May 1st, 1884 140 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1964 60 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1884, a prominent figure in both motorsport and British parliamentary politics. Competed in the early days of Grand Prix racing during the 1920s and gained recognition in the sport. Served as a Member of Parliament for several years and held the title of 5th Earl Howe, which contributed to his public persona. His involvement in motorsport extended to organizational roles, helping to shape the future of racing in the UK. His life intersected the worlds of speed and governance, marking significant contributions to both fields.

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Winifred Lenihan

American actress and writer with notable performances
Born
December 6th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1964 60 years ago — 65 years old

Active in the early and mid-20th century, this individual became a prominent figure in theater and film. Notable for performances in productions such as 'The Children's Hour' and 'The Black Flower'. In addition to acting, also worked as a writer and director, contributing to various theatrical productions. Her work in regional theater helped to establish the importance of local performances in American arts.

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Vean Gregg

American baseball player with Cleveland Indians
Born
April 13th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1964 60 years ago — 79 years old

Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. Competed for the Cleveland Indians from 1911 to 1916. Recorded a total of 55 wins and 53 losses during his career. In 1913, achieved a personal best season with 20 wins. Played alongside renowned players of the era, contributing to the team's performance.

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Jim Reeves

American country music singer
Born
August 20th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1964 60 years ago — 40 years old

A prominent figure in country music, this singer-songwriter became widely recognized for his smooth voice and romantic ballads during the 1950s and 1960s. Popular hits include 'Four Walls,' 'He’ll Have to Go,' and 'Distant Drums.' These songs topped charts and became staples in the country music genre. His style blended traditional country with elements of pop and jazz, appealing to a broad audience. The singer's career was marked by significant commercial success and a strong fan base, further solidified by numerous posthumous releases that featured his work. The legacy of this artist continues to influence country music.

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Flannery O'Connor

American writer of short stories
Born
March 25th, 1925 99 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1964 60 years ago — 39 years old

A significant figure in American literature, this author produced influential short stories and novels. Renowned for exploring the complexities of human behavior and morality, stories often reflect the Southern Gothic style. Major works include 'A Good Man Is Hard to Find' and 'Wise Blood'. Through vivid characters and intricate plots, the author addressed themes of faith, violence, and redemption amidst the backdrop of the American South.

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Nätti-Jussi

Finnish lumberjack and forest laborer
Born
August 31st, 1890 134 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1964 60 years ago — 73 years old

Born in Finland, a remarkable figure in the lumber industry emerged. Renowned for exceptional skills in forestry and lumberjacking, contributed to Finland's timber trade. Demonstrated expertise in handling large machinery and techniques used in logging. Helped shape practices in sustainable forestry, ensuring the balance between economic need and environmental preservation. Worked primarily during the early to mid-20th century, a period marked by significant development in logging operations across Finland.

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