What Happened This Year 1970
People Who Died in 1970
Jean Étienne Valluy
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.
Continue ReadingEsther Eng
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.
Continue ReadingWilliam Dobell
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.
Continue ReadingAllen Lane
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.
Continue ReadingNell Shipman
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.
Continue ReadingChristopher Kelk Ingold
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.
Continue ReadingAgustín Lara
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.
Continue ReadingBooker Ervin
A prominent figure in jazz music during the 1960s, this saxophonist contributed significantly to the hard bop movement. He began his career in the late 1950s and worked with various influential musicians. Ervin is noted for his powerful playing style and unique sound, which blended blues and bebop influences. He recorded numerous albums as a bandleader and gained recognition for his ability to convey deep emotion through his improvisations. His work in jazz was critical in shaping the genre during his active years but also positioned him as an influential artist in the evolution of saxophone performance.
Continue ReadingLonnie Johnson
An influential figure in the development of blues and jazz music. Johnson gained prominence in the 1920s and 1930s, blending blues with jazz and showcasing an exceptional technique on the guitar. Collaborated with notable artists and played a pivotal role in the evolution of guitar playing in popular music. Johnson's recordings were significant in shaping the sound of early rhythm and blues.
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