What Happened This Year 1971

People Who Died in 1971

Wendell Meredith Stanley

Biochemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 16th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1971 53 years ago — 66 years old

This individual contributed significantly to the field of biochemistry and virology. The work involved the study of viruses, specifically the tobacco mosaic virus. The research led to the development of techniques for purifying and crystallizing viruses, laying important groundwork for molecular biology.

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John Reith

Scottish broadcaster and BBC co-founder
Born
July 20th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1971 53 years ago — 81 years old

Co-founded the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) in 1922 and served as its first general director. Under leadership, the BBC established a reputation for high-quality programming and innovative broadcasting techniques. Advocated for the public service broadcasting model, emphasizing the importance of information, education, and entertainment in media. Introduced various radio and television formats that set standards for later programming.

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Thomas Gomez

American actor in film and theater
Born
July 10th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1971 53 years ago — 65 years old

An actor engaged mainly in film and theater during the mid-20th century. Started career on stage before transitioning to Hollywood, appearing in both leading and supporting roles. Gained recognition for performances in films such as 'The Sign of the Ram' (1948) and 'Key Largo' (1948), and often portrayed complex characters, showcasing a strong screen presence. Continued to work in film and television into the 1960s, leaving a mark in various dramatic roles.

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Paul Karrer

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 21st, 1889 135 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1971 53 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1889, a chemist made significant contributions to the field of organic chemistry. Focused on studying vitamins, particularly vitamin A and B2. Received a Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1937 for research on carotenoids and vitamins. Held academic positions in various institutions, influencing both research and education in chemistry.

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John Boyd Orr

Scottish biologist and Nobel laureate
Born
September 23rd, 1880 144 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1971 53 years ago — 90 years old

A Scottish biologist, physician, and politician, contributed significantly to the study of nutrition and food policy. Served as director-general of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Advocated for global food security and nutrition throughout the mid-20th century. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1949 for efforts to combat hunger and promote better nutrition worldwide.

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Franz Stangl

Austrian SS officer and concentration camp commandant
Born
March 26th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1971 53 years ago — 63 years old

An Austrian SS officer served as the commandant of the Sobibor and Treblinka extermination camps during World War II. Instrumental in the implementation of the 'Final Solution,' oversaw the murder of thousands of Jewish prisoners. After the war, fled to South America, living under an alias. Captured in Brazil in 1967 and extradited to West Germany, faced trial for his role in the Holocaust.

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Vladislav Volkov

Russian engineer and astronaut aboard Soyuz 7
Born
November 23rd, 1935 89 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1971 53 years ago — 35 years old

An engineer and astronaut from Russia, contributions spanned aeronautics and space exploration. Flew aboard Soyuz 7 in 1969, conducting scientific experiments in orbit, notably in the fields of biology and human physiology. Participated in the first long-duration space flight, influencing future missions. Volkov contributed to NASA training for Apollo missions, enhancing international cooperation in space endeavors. His legacy includes advancements in space technology and engineering.

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Nikola Kotkov

Bulgarian footballer with CSKA Sofia success
Born
1938 87 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1971 53 years ago — 33 years old

Renowned Bulgarian footballer played as a forward. Had a significant career with CSKA Sofia, which included multiple national championships. Represented the Bulgarian national team in major international competitions. Contributed to the team's success during the mid-20th century.

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Viktor Patsayev

Kazakh engineer and spaceflight pioneer
Born
June 19th, 1933 91 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1971 53 years ago — 38 years old

Graduated from the Kazan Aviation Institute in 1956. Joined the Soviet space program, serving as a cosmonaut. Participated in the Soyuz 11 mission in June 1971 and spent 24 days in space, conducting scientific experiments aboard the Salyut 1 space station. Died during the Soyuz 11 return flight due to cabin depressurization.

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