What Happened This Year 1971

People Who Died in 1971

Fritz Feigl

Chemist; developed spot tests
Born
May 15th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1971 54 years ago — 79 years old

An Austrian-Brazilian chemist and academic contributed significantly to analytical chemistry. Developed the Feigl test for the qualitative detection of nitrogen compounds in different chemical substances. Worked on the investigations of characteristics of substances and their interactions, leading to advancements in chemical analysis techniques. Published numerous articles and produced several influential texts in the field of chemistry. Contributed to the development of new analytical methods that are still in use today.

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Bill W.

Alcoholics Anonymous co-founder
Born
November 26th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1971 54 years ago — 75 years old

An American activist co-founded Alcoholics Anonymous in 1935 to help individuals overcome alcohol addiction. The organization developed a 12-step program as a framework for recovery, which has become widely adopted in various addiction treatment settings. Alongside another founding member, the activist emphasized the importance of mutual support and shared experiences in the recovery process. The impact of this work led to the establishment of numerous AA groups worldwide, creating a significant network for those seeking help with alcoholism.

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Jacobo Árbenz

Guatemalan politician and president
Born
September 14th, 1913 111 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1971 54 years ago — 57 years old

A significant political figure in Guatemala, served as the 25th President from 1951 to 1954. Implemented agrarian reform aimed at redistributing land to improve economic conditions for the rural population. Oversaw policies that promoted education and healthcare, while also facing opposition from powerful landowners and the United States government. His presidency ended in a U.S.-backed coup, which led to the eventual long-term civil conflict in Guatemala.

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Donald Winnicott

Pediatrician and psychoanalyst, object relations theory
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1971 54 years ago — 75 years old

A pediatrician and psychoanalyst contributed significantly to the understanding of child development and the importance of the relationship between mother and child. Developed concepts such as the 'good enough mother' and 'transitional objects', which explore how children navigate the transition from dependence to independence. Advocated for the integration of play in therapeutic practices and emphasized the emotional needs of children. His work bridged psychoanalysis and practical child care, impacting both clinical practices and parenting.

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Kanaiyalal Munshi

Indian independence activist and writer
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1971 54 years ago — 84 years old

An activist in the Indian independence movement, contributions included writing and political involvement. Played a significant role in establishing institutions for education and culture. Actively participated in the struggle for independence and contributed to the nationalist discourse through literature. The establishment of the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, an educational and cultural institution, marked a key accomplishment.

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James Cash Penney

American businessman, founder of J.C. Penney
Born
September 16th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1971 54 years ago — 95 years old

Established J.C. Penney, a department store chain that became one of the largest in the United States. Focused on customer service and value. Penney's business philosophy emphasized fair prices and ethical practices. Expanded J.C. Penney to over 1,600 stores by the mid-20th century. Engaged in various philanthropic activities throughout life, contributing to education and health causes.

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Theodor Svedberg

Swedish chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
August 30th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1971 54 years ago — 86 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of physical chemistry, focusing on colloids and the behavior of particles in solutions. Developed the ultracentrifuge for measuring the molecular weight of proteins and other macromolecules. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1926 for work on disperse systems. Served as a professor at Uppsala University, where research intensified understanding of colloidal chemistry.

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Allan Nevins

Journalist and award-winning author
Born
1890 135 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1971 54 years ago — 81 years old

This individual served as a prominent journalist and historian in the United States. Several historical works received acclaim, including comprehensive biographies and analyses of significant events. This person held editorial positions at major publications and contributed significantly to historical scholarship. A notable work included a multi-volume narrative chronicling the Civil War. Teaching at prestigious institutions enriched the understanding of American history. Several honors recognized contributions to journalism and historical writing.

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Richard Montague

Mathematician and philosopher of language
Born
September 20th, 1930 94 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1971 54 years ago — 40 years old

Contributions to mathematics and philosophical logic involved the development of formal systems that allowed the analysis of natural language. Montague created a theory known as Montague grammar, which sought to bridge the gap between syntax and semantics, showing how natural language can be understood through mathematical formalism. This work influenced the fields of linguistics and philosophy, providing foundational insights into the nature of meaning and reference in language. His theories have been integral in advancing both computational linguistics and logical positivism.

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