What Happened This Year 1970

People Who Died in 1970

Abraham Zapruder

Businessman and filmmaker of historic footage
Born
May 15th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 65 years old

An American businessman and amateur photographer filmed the Zapruder film, which captured the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas. This film became one of the most studied pieces of evidence in American history, providing key visual evidence regarding the events of that day. Zapruder was present at Dealey Plaza with a Bell & Howell 8mm camera when the events unfolded. The film was later used in various investigations and has influenced discussions on the topic of presidential security and the media's role in political events.

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Napoleon Hill

American author and motivational speaker
Born
October 26th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 87 years old

An American author and philosopher, focused on personal success and self-help literature. Published a seminal work that explored the principles of success and personal achievement. Conducted interviews with notable figures, including industrialists and political leaders, to distill their approaches to success into practical advice. His concepts of positive thinking and self-visualization have influenced countless motivational materials and leaders in various fields.

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Friedrich Pollock

Sociologist and philosopher, key contributor
Born
May 22nd, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 76 years old

Contributed significantly to the Frankfurt School of critical theory. Focused on the critique of capitalism and the relationship between economic systems and social structures. Engaged in discussions on Marxism and modern society's complexities. Published works addressing issues in sociology and philosophy, exploring topics such as authority and freedom. Participated as a scholar in the movement against fascism and totalitarianism.

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Arsenio Rodríguez

Cuban-American tres player and composer
Born
August 31st, 1911 113 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent figure in Cuban music history, this musician significantly shaped the genre of son cubano. Arriving in the United States in the 1940s, he played a pivotal role in the development of salsa music. The artist contributed to the popularization of the tres, a guitar-like instrument. Throughout his career, numerous compositions reflected his innovative approach to blending traditional Cuban music with other influences.

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Gladys Mills Phipps

American horse breeder with notable thoroughbreds
Born
June 19th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent horse breeder, established a renowned breeding operation focused on thoroughbred racing. Successfully developed and raced numerous champions at prestigious events, contributing significantly to the horse breeding industry. The breeding program produced several celebrated horses that competed and excelled in high-profile races. Active in equestrian organizations and known for supporting equine welfare initiatives, showcasing a deep commitment to the sport and its community.

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Paul Celan

Poet and translator of 'Death Fugue'
Born
November 23rd, 1920 104 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 50 years old

Born in Romania, a poet and translator emerged as a prominent figure in 20th-century literature. Celan's most celebrated work, 'Death Fugue,' reflects on the horrors of the Holocaust and the struggles of memory and language. After World War II, Celan settled in France, where he engaged with surrealism and existentialism in his poetry. His works are characterized by their deep existential themes and linguistic innovation, often exploring identity, loss, and trauma. Celan contributed significantly to the discourse of post-war European literature and was involved in translating works from German to French, enhancing cultural exchange between the two languages.

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Syd Buller

English cricketer and cricket umpire
Born
August 23rd, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 61 years old

Start of a sports career occurred in the 1930s, playing first-class cricket for teams such as Nottinghamshire. Transitioned to umpiring after retirement from playing, officiating in numerous Test matches. Served as an International Cricket Council (ICC) elite panel umpire, contributing to the game's integrity through rigorous officiating. Continued to serve in the cricket community until later stages of life.

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Johnny Hodges

American jazz saxophonist, Duke Ellington
Born
July 25th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 64 years old

An influential jazz saxophonist and clarinet player, recognized for a distinctive style and smooth tone, contributed significantly to the Duke Ellington Orchestra. Joined Ellington's band in 1928, becoming a central figure in its sound. Explored various musical genres and collaborated with notable musicians throughout his career. Recorded numerous albums as a leader and participated in iconic Ellington compositions.

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Adrian Conan Doyle

Race car driver and author
Born
November 19th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 60 years old

Involved in auto racing during the early to mid-20th century, participated in notable competitions including the Mille Miglia. Authored several works, contributing to the literary world. Explored various regions, sharing experiences through writings and insights. Engaged with the automotive community through participation in car races and events, fostering an appreciation for motorsport.

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