What Happened This Year 1970

People Who Died in 1970

William Slim

Field Marshal and Governor-General
Born
August 6th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1891, this field marshal served with distinction in the British Army during World War II. Commanded the Allied Forces in the Burma campaign, contributing significantly to the defeat of Japanese forces. After the war, appointed as the 13th Governor-General of Australia, serving from 1953 to 1960. His leadership style and approach to governance left a lasting impression during his tenure. Authored several books, including a memoir detailing his military experiences.

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Margaret Utinsky

Nurse and Medal of Freedom recipient
Born
August 26th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a nurse during World War II, providing medical assistance in several locations. Engaged in covert operations to support resistance movements in occupied territories. Recognized for bravery and exceptional service. Received the Medal of Freedom for actions that contributed to the Allied victory and support of local populations. Continued to advocate for health care standards and veteran services post-war.

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Jean Étienne Valluy

French general and military leader
Born
May 15th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1899, a general in the French Army, served with distinction during World War II. Commanded the 2nd Armored Division, which played a key role in the liberation of France. Participated in the Battle of Normandy and later led forces in the liberation of Paris. Continued a military career after the war, holding various commands and contributing to France's military strategy during the Cold War.

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Esther Eng

Film director of notable Chinese films
Born
September 24th, 1914 110 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 56 years old

A pioneering Chinese-American film director, worked primarily during the 1940s and 1950s. Directed several significant films that contributed to Chinese cinema, focusing on narratives that resonated with the Chinese diaspora. Eng was the first female director in the Cantonese film industry and established her presence in Hollywood, directing films that showcased her unique vision and cultural heritage. Eng's contributions to cinema were recognized in the context of her efforts to bridge East and West through film.

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William Dobell

Australian painter of portrait laureates
Born
September 24th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 71 years old

Born in Australia, this painter gained prominence for portraiture, winning the Archibald Prize three times. His style evolved from traditional methods to a more expressionist approach, characterized by bold colors and distinctive brushwork. One of the notable subjects of his portraits was the influential author and playwright, which showcased a blend of psychological depth and artistic flair. The painter's works continue to be celebrated in galleries across the country.

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Allen Lane

Publisher, founded Penguin Books
Born
September 21st, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 68 years old

Founded Penguin Books in 1935, revolutionizing the publishing industry with affordable paperbacks. Promoted quality literature accessible to the general public. Expanded the Penguin brand by introducing various series including Penguin Classics. Played a significant role in establishing the modern publishing business.

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Nell Shipman

Actress and screenwriter of silent films
Born
October 25th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1892, this individual became a prominent figure in the silent film era, known for work that included acting, screenwriting, and producing. Active primarily in the 1910s and 1920s, contributions to the film industry included pioneering roles for women in front of and behind the camera. Key works include 'Back to God's Country', which showcased personal involvement in both production and performance, highlighting themes of nature and adventure. The individual was also recognized for integrating elements of realism into early cinema, influencing subsequent generations of filmmakers.

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Christopher Kelk Ingold

British chemist and reaction kinetics expert
Born
October 28th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 77 years old

A chemist contributed significantly to the field of organic chemistry. Ingold's work on reaction mechanisms established the principles of nucleophilic substitution and addition reactions. Served as a professor at University College London and later became a Fellow of the Royal Society. Authored influential textbooks that shaped modern organic chemistry education. Received numerous awards for contributions to the field.

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Agustín Lara

Singer-songwriter and actor known for songs
Born
October 30th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 73 years old

Born in Mexico, developed a successful career as a composer and singer. Produced a significant body of work featuring romantic ballads and boleros. Became recognized in the music scene during the early 20th century. Achieved fame with songs such as 'Aventurera' and 'Granada', which remain popular in Latin music. Also appeared in films, contributing to the entertainment industry beyond music.

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