What Happened This Year 1971

People Who Died in 1971

Antonio Bacci

Italian cardinal and Catholic leader
Born
September 4th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1971 54 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.

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Anthony Berkeley Cox

English crime fiction writer
Born
July 5th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1971 54 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.

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Emmett Toppino

American sprinter and Olympic medalist
Born
July 1st, 1909 116 years ago
Died
1971 54 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.

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William F. Albright

Archaeologist and biblical scholar
Born
May 24th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 80 years old

Contributions to archaeology and biblical studies included excavations at significant sites such as Jericho and Gezer. Developed methods in ceramic typology and stratigraphy, which enhanced chronological dating techniques in archaeological research. Authored numerous scholarly works exploring the history and culture of the ancient Near East. Established the biblical archaeology movement, bridging the gap between archaeology and biblical texts through methodical fieldwork and rigorous analysis.

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Isabel González

Puerto Rican activist for citizenship rights
Born
May 2nd, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1971 54 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.

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Pope Cyril VI of Alexandria

Coptic Pope and spiritual leader
Born
August 2nd, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 69 years old

Born on August 2, 1902, a prominent Coptic Orthodox Christian leader served as the 116th pope of Alexandria from 1959 until death in 1971. Played a vital role in revitalizing the Coptic Orthodox Church, emphasizing the importance of spiritual renewal and education. Established the Coptic Museum in Cairo and was instrumental in the renovation of church buildings and seminaries. Focused on fostering unity in the Christian community and strengthening relations with other faiths during a time of political and social change in Egypt. His tenure was marked by efforts to address social issues and enhance the visibility of the Coptic community.

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George Kenner

Painter and illustrator of America
Born
November 1st, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1971 54 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.

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Fernando Quiroga Palacios

Spanish Cardinal and ecclesiastical leader
Born
January 21st, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 71 years old

Ordained as a priest, led various dioceses in Spain. Appointed as a Cardinal in 1953, held significant roles within the Catholic Church. Actively participated in the Second Vatican Council, influencing modern Church practices and theology. Known for his dedication to pastoral care and social issues, he advocated for the rights of the poor and marginalized. Served in various capacities until retirement, leaving a legacy within the Spanish Church.

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Wynton Kelly

Jazz pianist and composer, ‘Miles Ahead’
Born
December 2nd, 1931 93 years ago
Died
1971 54 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.

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