What Happened This Year 1970

People Who Died in 1970

Giovanni Giuriati

Italian lawyer and politician
Born
August 4th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1876, engaged in legal practice and politics. Served as a member of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, representing various constituencies. Contributed to numerous legislative initiatives aimed at reforming Italian law. Participated in significant political discussions during critical periods of Italian history.

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Matt Henderson

New Zealand cricketer and Test player
Born
August 2nd, 1895 130 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1895, this New Zealand cricketer played as a right-handed batsman and was a key player in the national team during the early years of Test cricket. Debuting in 1930, participation spanned through multiple matches in the 1930s. The cricketer was recognized for consistent performances and contributed to the development of cricket in New Zealand. The playing career concluded with notable statistics and an influence on future generations of players.

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Alice Hamilton

Physician and industrial health pioneer
Born
February 27th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 101 years old

A physician and academic, focused on occupational health and safety. Worked extensively in the early 20th century to document the effects of industrial conditions on workers' health. Played a crucial role in the establishment of safety standards in various industries. Served as a professor at Harvard University, contributing to the field of public health and advocating for improvements in workplace safety. Hamilton's research focused on lead poisoning, industrial hygiene, and the dangers of occupational exposure.

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Wharton Esherick

American sculptor and furniture designer
Born
July 15th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 83 years old

An American sculptor and furniture designer contributed significantly to the American modernist movement in the 20th century. Originally trained as a painter, transitioned to sculpture and became influential in the development of studio furniture. Established a unique style that merged functional design with artistic expression. The Esherick House, designed by Louis Kahn, reflects the integration of his works and environment.

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Lonnie Johnson

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
February 8th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 71 years old

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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Ruth Sawyer

American author and educator
Born
August 5th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 90 years old

An author and educator contributed extensively to children's literature. Published several books, including 'The Cape Ann', which is celebrated for its portrayal of childhood. Worked to promote reading and literacy among children through various educational programs and initiatives. Also involved in teaching and curriculum development during a prominent educational career.

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Booker Ervin

Saxophonist and jazz composer
Born
October 31st, 1930 94 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 40 years old

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.

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Ernst May

Architect and urban planner in Germany
Born
July 27th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Germany, an architect and urban planner specialized in modernist architecture. Played a key role in urban planning during the Weimar Republic. Instrumental in the development of the Frankfurt Kitchen, which revolutionized kitchen design. Overseen numerous housing projects aimed at addressing the post-World War I housing crisis in Germany. Advocated for the principles of functionalism in architecture. His work during the 1920s significantly influenced residential building design in Germany.

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Charles Olson

Poet and educator known for The Maximus Poems
Born
December 27th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 60 years old

An American poet and educator. Played an influential role in the post-World War II poetry movement. Served as a professor at Black Mountain College, fostering innovative approaches to poetry and education. Developed a theory of 'Projective Verse,' which emphasized the importance of breath and sound in poetry. Wrote 'The Maximus Poems,' a pivotal work that explored themes of place, identity, and history.

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