What Happened This Year 1970

People Who Died in 1970

Clare Sheridan

Sculptor and author, notable for portraits
Born
September 9th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1970 54 years ago — 84 years old

A sculptor and author who gained recognition for creating portraits of prominent figures in the early 20th century. Contributions included producing busts of individuals such as George Bernard Shaw and Winston Churchill. Worked in various materials, with an emphasis on clay and bronze. Authored memoirs detailing experiences and travels, providing insight into the artistic landscape of the time.

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Terry Sawchuk

Ice hockey player with multiple records
Born
December 28th, 1929 95 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1970 54 years ago — 40 years old

A Canadian-American ice hockey player, recognized for exceptional goaltending skills. Played in the NHL from 1949 to 1970, serving primarily with the Detroit Red Wings and the Toronto Maple Leafs. Achieved three Hart Trophies and four Vezina Trophies, establishing numerous records during his career. Retired with the record for most career shutouts, a benchmark that stood for decades. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1971, further solidifying a legacy in professional ice hockey.

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Albert Lamorisse

Director of The Red Balloon
Born
January 13th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1970 54 years ago — 48 years old

A French director and producer contributed significantly to cinema through a unique storytelling style. Best remembered for the film 'The Red Balloon', which won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay in 1957, the work showcased a poignant narrative with minimal dialogue. Lamorisse's career spanned various genres, but his enchanting children's films often featured themes of wonder and imagination. He also produced and directed 'White Mane', another acclaimed film that captured the beauty of nature and the bond between a boy and a wild horse. Lamorisse's innovative use of color and sound left a lasting impression on filmmakers and audiences alike.

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Lucía Sánchez Saornil

Spanish anarchist feminist activist
Born
December 13th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1970 54 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1895, this figure became a prominent anarchist feminist in Spain. Actively participated in the Confederación Nacional del Trabajo (CNT) and contributed to the development of feminist discourse within anarchism. Edited the feminist publication 'Nuestra Tribuna' and played a significant role in promoting women’s rights and labor reforms during the Spanish Civil War. Her involvement with the Mujeres Libres organization highlighted her commitment to gender equality and social justice.

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Bruce McLaren

Race car driver and team founder
Born
August 30th, 1937 87 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1970 54 years ago — 32 years old

A significant figure in motorsport, this New Zealand race car driver and engineer founded the McLaren racing team. This team became renowned in the Formula One series and developed a reputation for engineering excellence and innovation. In addition to competing as a driver, contributions to automotive design and technology were substantial. Tragically, an accident during a test session claimed life at a young age.

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Giuseppe Ungaretti

Italian poet and soldier, WWI veteran
Born
February 10th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1970 54 years ago — 82 years old

Born in Egypt, a soldier and poet during World War I. Contributed to the literary movement known as Hermeticism, which emphasized brevity and intensity in poetry. Inspired by personal experiences in the war, produced significant works while serving in the Italian army. Later held various academic posts and continued writing and publishing poetry throughout life. Engaged in journalism and wrote extensively about the impact of war on human experience.

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Hjalmar Schacht

Economist and banker, Reichsbank president
Born
1877 148 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1970 54 years ago — 93 years old

An economist and banker associated with Germany, played a significant role in the economic policies of the Weimar Republic and during the Nazi regime. Served as the president of the Reichsbank from 1923 to 1930 and again from 1933 to 1939. Instrumental in the economic recovery of Germany in the 1920s, implementing policies that reduced hyperinflation. Contributed to the establishment of the German Labor Front after the elimination of trade unions. Involved in several economic negotiations and agreements leading up to and during World War II, including managing relations with foreign investors.

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Sonny Tufts

American actor in B-movie films
Born
July 16th, 1911 113 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1970 54 years ago — 58 years old

Achieved prominence in the film industry in the 1940s, appearing in various B-movie productions. Gained recognition for roles in films such as 'The Seven Waves' and 'Honeymoon Ahead.' Experienced a successful career playing leading roles, especially in romantic comedies. Transitioned to television in later years, maintaining a presence in the entertainment field until retirement.

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E. M. Forster

English author known for A Passage to India
Born
January 1st, 1879 146 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1970 54 years ago — 91 years old

An English author and playwright, this figure significantly contributed to 20th-century literature. Most influential works include the novels 'A Room with a View,' 'Howards End,' and 'A Passage to India.' Exploration of themes such as class distinction, personal relationships, and the clash of cultures marked the author's writing. Additionally, wrote the libretto for the opera 'Billy Budd' by Benjamin Britten and adapted 'Maurice' into a screenplay. Contributions to literary criticism and essays further showcased the author's viewpoints on literature and society.

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