What Happened This Year 1970

People Who Died in 1970

Erich Maria Remarque

Author of All Quiet on the Western Front
Born
June 22nd, 1898 126 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1970 54 years ago — 72 years old

A soldier during World War I, held various roles including combat experience before transitioning to a career in writing. The work 'All Quiet on the Western Front' detailed the harrowing experiences of soldiers in the trenches and became a seminal text in anti-war literature. Emigrated from Germany to Switzerland in the 1930s in response to the Nazi regime, which sought to censor the author's works. Continued to write novels in exile, exploring themes of war, loss, and the impact of human conflicts.

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John Dos Passos

Novelist and playwright of U.S.A.
Born
January 14th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1970 54 years ago — 74 years old

An American novelist, poet, and playwright, contributed significantly to modern American literature. Wrote the U.S.A. trilogy, which includes the notable works The 42nd Parallel, 1919, and The Big Money. His writings often explored social and political themes and incorporated innovative narrative techniques. In addition to fiction, created works for the stage and engaged in social activism throughout his career.

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Gamal Abdel Nasser

Egyptian President, led 1952 Revolution
Born
January 15th, 1918 107 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1970 54 years ago — 52 years old

Served as the second President of Egypt from 1956 until death in 1970. Played a significant role in the Egyptian Revolution of 1952, which led to the overthrow of the monarchy. Implemented a series of social reforms and nationalizations, notably in the Suez Canal. Advocated for Arab nationalism and played a central role in the formation of the United Arab Republic with Syria from 1958 to 1961. Promoted a policy of non-alignment during the Cold War while maintaining relationships with both Western and Eastern blocs. Led Egypt through the Six-Day War in 1967, facing significant territorial losses but maintaining a strong nationalist image.

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Edward Everett Horton

American actor in 'Flicka' and 'Topper'
Born
March 18th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1970 54 years ago — 84 years old

An American actor, singer, and dancer, celebrated for performances in film and television during the early to mid-20th century. Achieved recognition for work in the movie 'Topper' and the TV series 'The Twilight Zone'. Gained acclaim for comedic roles, often portraying characters with an air of sophistication and charm. Contributed to the entertainment industry through both stage and screen performances, engaging audiences with talent and wit.

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Gilbert Seldes

Cultural critic and writer
Born
1893 132 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1970 54 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent American writer and cultural critic, worked extensively in the early to mid-20th century. Authored significant works that explored the intersections of culture, media, and society. Seldes wrote for various publications and served as a media executive. His book 'The Seven Lively Arts' examined the evolving landscape of American culture. Contributed to understanding the impact of mass media on society through writings and public lectures.

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Raúl Riganti

Argentinian race car driver
Born
1893 132 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1970 54 years ago — 77 years old

Competed in various international motorsport events, achieving notable success in the 1950s. Participated in Formula One races during the early years of the championship. Gained recognition for performances in the Mille Miglia and other endurance races.

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Janis Joplin

Singer-songwriter with iconic voice
Born
January 19th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1970 54 years ago — 27 years old

Born in Port Arthur, Texas, a prominent figure in the 1960s music scene emerged with a distinctive voice and emotional delivery. Rose to fame as the lead singer of Big Brother and the Holding Company, especially with the hit 'Piece of My Heart.' Pursued a solo career, releasing acclaimed albums including 'Cheap Thrills' and 'Pearl.' An influential performer, often associated with the counterculture movement, played an integral role in the Monterey Pop Festival and Woodstock. Joplin's life was marked by struggles with substance abuse, and she tragically died at a young age, leaving a lasting legacy in rock music.

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Jean Giono

French author and poet
Born
March 30th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1970 54 years ago — 75 years old

An influential figure in 20th-century literature, this author produced a body of work that celebrated the natural world and rural life. Giono's narratives often blended realism with elements of fantasy. His notable works include 'The Man Who Planted Trees,' which emphasizes the relationship between humanity and nature. This author contributed significantly to the literary movement of regionalism, focusing on the landscapes and culture of Provence. Giono's writing style merged lyrical prose with deep philosophical insights, offering commentary on existence and the human condition.

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Édouard Daladier

French Prime Minister during WWII
Born
June 18th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1970 54 years ago — 86 years old

Served as Prime Minister of France on multiple occasions during the late 1930s and early 1940s. Actively participated in the negotiations of the Munich Agreement in 1938, which attempted to pacify Nazi Germany by ceding the Sudetenland region of Czechoslovakia. His government faced significant challenges during the outbreak of World War II, especially concerning military preparedness and alliances. In 1940, Daladier was arrested by the Vichy regime after France's defeat against Germany and subsequently went into exile, returning to public life after the war.

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