What Happened This Year 1965

People Who Died in 1965

Leopold Figl

Austrian Chancellor and politician
Born
October 2nd, 1902 122 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1965 59 years ago — 62 years old

Austrian politician held the office of Chancellor from 1945 to 1953. Central to the reconstruction of Austria post-World War II, Figl led the country through its first elections after the war and was instrumental in establishing the Second Republic of Austria. He played a significant role in the negotiations that led to the Austrian State Treaty in 1955, which restored Austria's sovereignty and neutrality. After serving as Chancellor, he held various positions within the Austrian People's Party and continued to contribute to the country's political landscape until his retirement.

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Hubertus van Mook

Dutch politician, Governor-General of Indies
Born
May 30th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1965 59 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent politician served as Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies from 1946 to 1949. Focused on decolonization and restructuring policies during a period of political upheaval. Advocated for reform and modernization in colonial administration while navigating tensions between Dutch and Indonesian nationalists. After the transfer of sovereignty to Indonesia, returned to the Netherlands where continued political career involved engagement in Dutch-Indonesian relations.

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Frances Perkins

American Secretary of Labor and sociologist
Born
April 10th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1965 59 years ago — 85 years old

This individual served as the United States Secretary of Labor from 1933 to 1945, making significant contributions to labor policies during the Great Depression and World War II. Advancements included the establishment of Social Security and labor rights protections. As the first woman to hold a cabinet position in the U.S. government, this person played a crucial role in shaping modern labor laws and advocating for workers’ rights. Previous to the cabinet position, she was involved in various social reform initiatives and worked with progressive leaders to address economic disparities.

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Geoffrey de Havilland

Pilot and engineer; designed Mosquito
Born
July 27th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1965 59 years ago — 82 years old

An English pilot and engineer played a significant role in the development of military aircraft during World War II. Established the de Havilland Aircraft Company, which produced several notable aircraft designs. The most prominent of these was the de Havilland Mosquito, a twin-engine bomber known for its speed and versatility. Beyond military applications, contributions also extended into civil aviation with the design of the de Havilland Comet, the world's first commercial turbojet airliner. His engineering advancements greatly influenced aircraft performance and technology in aviation.

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Christopher Stone

English radio host and broadcaster
Born
September 19th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1965 59 years ago — 82 years old

Engaged in radio broadcasting primarily in England, particularly recognized for pioneering techniques in host presentation and audience interaction. Established a reputation through various radio shows, contributing to the growth of radio as a popular medium in the early 20th century. Played an influential role in shaping broadcasting standards during a formative time for the industry, becoming a voice for public discourse across multiple platforms.

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David Smith

Sculptor; known for large steel sculptures
Born
1906 119 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1965 59 years ago — 59 years old

An influential American sculptor focused on large-scale works created from steel. Worked in the abstract expressionist style, combining industrial materials with artistic vision. Utilized welding techniques to construct geometric shapes and intricate forms, challenging traditional notions of sculpture. Established a distinctive voice in 20th-century art through innovative use of materials and forms. Contributed significantly to the development of modern sculpture through numerous exhibitions, particularly in the late 1940s and 1950s. Recognized as a pivotal figure in American sculpture, with works hosted in major art institutions.

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Sonny Boy Williamson II

Harmonica player and blues singer
Born
December 5th, 1912 112 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1965 59 years ago — 52 years old

Born in 1912, this musician emerged as a prominent figure in the Chicago blues scene. He gained recognition for his impressive harmonica skills and expressive vocal style. His recordings during the 1950s brought attention to the blues genre, influencing many artists. His music incorporated traditional blues elements along with unique improvisation, which resonated with audiences. He performed widely in clubs and recorded several influential albums, solidifying his legacy in the music industry.

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John Rinehart Blue

American military officer and politician
Born
October 13th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1965 59 years ago — 59 years old

A military officer, educator, businessperson, and politician, this individual had a multifaceted career spanning several fields. Served as a commissioned officer in the United States Army and held various educational roles. Actively participated in local politics, contributing to community development and governance. Also engaged in business ventures that supported educational initiatives and economic growth.

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Louis Hjelmslev

Linguist and creator of Glossematics
Born
1899 126 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1965 59 years ago — 66 years old

A linguist and academic advanced the study of language through the development of Glossematics, a theory that emphasized the structural relations within a language. Served as a professor at the University of Copenhagen, where significant contributions to the field of linguistics were made. The work focused on the formal properties of language, influencing structuralism and semiotics. Established the Linguistic Circle of Copenhagen, facilitating scholarly collaboration and research. Authored several key texts that outlined theoretical frameworks still studied in linguistic and philosophical contexts.

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