What Happened This Year 1965

People Who Died in 1965

Milton Avery

American painter with Colorful landscapes
Born
March 7th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1965 60 years ago — 79 years old

An influential painter, recognized for a distinct style characterized by bold colors and simplified forms. Worked primarily in the mid-20th century, Avery contributed significantly to American modernism. His paintings often depicted landscapes, seascapes, and portraits, showcasing a personal interpretation of everyday subjects. Spent much of his life in New York, where he was a central figure in abstract expressionism, while still maintaining a connection to representational art. Exhibited widely during his lifetime, his work has continued to garner attention in the years since his death in 1965.

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T. S. Eliot

Poet and playwright, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 26th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1965 60 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent poet, playwright, and literary critic, this individual contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. Publications include 'The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock' and 'The Waste Land', which are considered masterpieces of modern poetry. The individual also wrote plays, including 'Murder in the Cathedral' and 'The Cocktail Party'. As a key figure in literary modernism, engagement with themes of fragmentation and despair marked the work, influencing generations of writers. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1948, recognized for the substantial contribution to contemporary poetry and drama.

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Wally Pipp

Baseball player and journalist
Born
February 17th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1965 60 years ago — 71 years old

Played as a first baseman in Major League Baseball. Spent most of career with the New York Yankees. Helped the team to a championship in 1921. Pipp's consecutive game streak ended when a young player named Lou Gehrig took his place, marking a significant moment in baseball history. After retiring from playing, transitioned to a career in journalism, covering sports.

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Lorraine Hansberry

Playwright of 'A Raisin in the Sun'
Born
May 19th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1965 60 years ago — 34 years old

An American author, playwright, and director, notable for the groundbreaking play 'A Raisin in the Sun', a poignant exploration of African American life in the 1950s. The play debuted on Broadway in 1959 and became a defining moment in American theater. Hansberry's works often addressed themes of race, identity, and social justice. She was the first African American woman to have a play produced on Broadway. Hansberry's life was marked by her commitment to civil rights and activism, influencing future generations of playwrights and activists.

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Jeanette MacDonald

Actor and Singer in Musical Films
Born
June 18th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1965 60 years ago — 61 years old

An influential actress and singer in the early 20th century, this individual became renowned for her roles in a series of musical films. Collaborating frequently with Nelson Eddy, produced significant box office successes. Musical talents complemented on-screen performances in operettas that captivated audiences. Her performances helped define the genre for Hollywood musicals during the 1930s and 1940s.

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Arnold Luhaäär

Estonian Weightlifter Champion
Born
1905 120 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1965 60 years ago — 60 years old

Active in the mid-20th century, competed in weightlifting representing Estonia. Achieved significant success at international competitions, including the Olympics. Indoor competitions showcased remarkable strength and technique, garnering attention in the sport. Participation in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics marked a career highlight.

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Alan Freed

American radio host popularized rock 'n' roll
Born
December 15th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1965 60 years ago — 43 years old

A radio host contributed significantly to the promotion of rock 'n' roll music during the 1950s. Pioneered the genre through hosting programs that introduced the music to a broader audience, famously coining the term 'rock and roll' in the process. Established the Moondog Coronation Ball, widely recognized as the first major rock concert, which took place in 1952. Freely influenced multiple generations of artists and music listeners, showcasing a variety of artists on air.

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Winston Churchill

British Prime Minister and Nobel laureate
Born
November 10th, 1871 153 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1965 60 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent English statesman and soldier, served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during critical periods, particularly during World War II. Played a vital role in the Allied victory against Axis powers, leading efforts to rally and mobilize British forces and citizens. Authored numerous works, including historical texts and memoirs, earning the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1953 for his overall writings. His speeches and radio broadcasts helped inspire resilience during wartime.

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Abraham Walkowitz

American painter of modernist works
Born
1878 147 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1965 60 years ago — 87 years old

Associated with the Modernist movement, created a range of abstract and expressionistic paintings throughout his career. His artwork often explored themes of light, color, and movement, reflecting the vibrancy of urban life. Walkowitz’s works were exhibited in numerous galleries and museums, contributing to the development of American modern art. He was influenced by both European painting techniques and American cultural elements, resulting in a unique style that merged various artistic trends.

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