What Happened This Year 1971

People Who Died in 1971

Bert Ironmonger

Australian cricketer, Test player
Born
April 7th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 89 years old

Bert Ironmonger was an Australian cricketer who played as a left-arm fast bowler. Represented Australia in Test cricket during the 1920s, earning a reputation for his accurate bowling and ability to swing the ball. Made his Test debut against England in 1920 at the age of 38, making him one of the oldest players to start a Test career. Contributed significantly to the Australian team's efforts in the Ashes series. Played first-class cricket primarily for Victoria and was active until 1928, becoming a prominent figure in Australian cricket history.

Continue Reading

William David Ross

Scottish philosopher, author of 'The Right and the Good'
Born
April 15th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 94 years old

Contributed significantly to moral philosophy and ethics. Developed the idea of prima facie duties, addressing obligations humans have toward each other. Held academic positions at several universities including Edinburgh and Oxford. Authored pivotal works such as 'The Right and the Good' which detailed his ethical framework and influenced subsequent moral theorists. Engaged in discussions about the nature of obligation and the complexities of moral reasoning.

Continue Reading

Antonio Bacci

Italian cardinal and Catholic leader
Born
September 4th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 86 years old

Ordained as a priest in 1908, played significant roles within the Catholic Church. Served as the Bishop of Pistoia and later as the Archbishop of Ferrara. Elevated to the rank of cardinal in 1953 by Pope Pius XII. Participated in Vatican II, contributing to discussions on modernizing the Church's approach. His tenure was marked by significant clerical responsibilities and the promotion of ecclesiastical matters within Italy and beyond.

Continue Reading

Anthony Berkeley Cox

English crime fiction writer
Born
July 5th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 78 years old

A writer generated notable works in the crime fiction genre during the early to mid-20th century. Established a reputation with the creation of two significant detective characters: Roger Sheringham and Judith Lee. Contributed to the genre through both novels and short stories, with a focus on intricate plot structures and moral dilemmas. Active in the literary community, also participated in the Detection Club, a group of crime writers. Authored numerous works under his own name and pseudonyms, exploring themes of justice and the human psyche.

Continue Reading

Emmett Toppino

American sprinter and Olympic medalist
Born
July 1st, 1909 116 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 62 years old

Competed in sprinting events during the 1930s. Achieved notable success in the 1936 Summer Olympics, winning a silver medal in the 4x100 meter relay. Also set several records in national competitions, showcasing speed and athleticism. Contributed to the development of track and field in the United States through participation in various events.

Continue Reading

Isabel González

Puerto Rican activist for citizenship rights
Born
May 2nd, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 89 years old

An activist from Puerto Rico played a crucial role in advocating for the citizenship rights of Puerto Ricans. In the early 20th century, significant efforts were made to challenge the legal status of Puerto Ricans following the annexation of Puerto Rico by the United States. The activism focused on the need for American citizenship for Puerto Ricans, arguing that this would ensure equality and civil rights. Leading legal cases culminated in landmark decisions that influenced the status of millions of citizens. Her persistence helped shape the discussion around citizenship and identity for Puerto Ricans.

Continue Reading

George Kenner

Painter and illustrator of America
Born
November 1st, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 83 years old

Born in Germany, the artist immigrated to the United States and contributed to various artistic movements. His work included detailed illustrations and paintings that gained recognition for their unique style and technique. Through a notable career in painting, he participated in numerous exhibitions and created a significant body of work reflecting the cultural landscape of his time. The influence of his artistic vision resonated within both the American art scene and the broader community of illustrators.

Continue Reading

Wynton Kelly

Jazz pianist and composer, ‘Miles Ahead’
Born
December 2nd, 1931 94 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 40 years old

A prominent jazz pianist and composer emerged from the post-World War II jazz scene. Played with legendary trumpeter Miles Davis on seminal albums including ‘Miles Ahead’ and contributed uniquely to the jazz genre's evolution. Also performed with jazz greats such as Wes Montgomery and recorded extensively as a bandleader. His work is characterized by vibrant rhythms and intricate melodies. The distinctive style featured a blend of influences, contributing to the development of modal jazz and hard bop. Continued to perform and record until the late 1970s.

Continue Reading

Mary Rogers Miller

American author and educator
Born
April 21st, 1868 157 years ago
Died
1971 55 years ago — 103 years old

Focused on education and literature, contributed to the field through writings and teaching. Played a pivotal role in developing educational content and methodologies that influenced progressive education in the United States. Wrote several books aimed at improving literacy and understanding in students, emphasizing the importance of education in personal and social development.

Continue Reading