What Happened This Year 1973

Historical Events from This Year 1973 (View all 138)

Politics & Government

Denmark, Ireland, and the UK Join EEC

January 1st, 1973 52 years ago

Denmark, Ireland, and the United Kingdom became member states of the European Economic Community, boosting economic cooperation in Europe. Their accession marked a significant expansion of the EEC, which aimed to create a common market. Each nation pursued membership to enhance trade opportunities and political collaboration. The formal accession on January 1, 1973, symbolized a new chapter in European integration, impacting policies and relations among European countries.

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Crime & Law

Mark Essex Hotel Shooting Rampage in New Orleans

January 7th, 1973 52 years ago

Mark Essex unleashed a violent shooting spree at the Howard Johnson's Hotel in New Orleans, killing seven and injuring five. Essex, a former naval recruit, had previously engaged in another shooting that week. The chaos unfolded as guests and staff sought shelter from his gunfire. Eventually, police intervened, leading to a shootout that resulted in Essex's death. The incident highlighted escalating violence and the challenges of mental health in society during that period.

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Space Exploration

Luna 21 Successfully Launches to the Moon

January 8th, 1973 52 years ago

Luna 21 was launched by the Soviet Union to explore the Moon, with the primary objective of delivering a rover named Lunokhod 2. This mission marked a significant advancement in lunar exploration technology and aimed to enhance scientific understanding of the Moon's surface. Launching from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan, Luna 21 lifted off aboard a Proton rocket. Upon reaching the Moon, the Lunokhod 2 rover was deployed to conduct various scientific experiments and to transmit data back to Earth, fostering international interest in space exploration.

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Politics & Government

Trial Begins for Watergate Burglary Defendants

January 8th, 1973 52 years ago

The trial of seven men accused of breaking into the Democratic Party headquarters at the Watergate complex commenced. The defendants faced charges related to illegal entry and the broader implications of a political espionage scandal that threatened the integrity of the 1972 presidential election. This moment marked a pivotal point in American politics, drawing national attention and sparking debates about corruption and accountability within the government.

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Sports & Recreation

American League Votes for Designated Hitter

January 11th, 1973 52 years ago

Major League Baseball owners voted to allow the American League to adopt the designated hitter position, changing the way pitchers were used in games. This decision aimed to enhance offensive play and reduce injuries among pitchers. Prior to this, pitchers batted for themselves, which often led to weak batting and decreased scoring. The designated hitter would bat in place of the pitcher, allowing teams to insert stronger hitters and strategize for better outcomes.

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Entertainment

Elvis Presley's Aloha from Hawaii Broadcast

January 14th, 1973 52 years ago

Elvis Presley performed a concert titled 'Aloha from Hawaii' which was broadcast live via satellite. This landmark event, held at the Honolulu International Center, marked a significant moment in television history, as it became the most-watched broadcast by an individual entertainer, with millions tuning in worldwide. The concert showcased Presley's iconic music and charismatic performance style, highlighting his global appeal and status as a music legend.

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Born in 1973 (View all 629)

Frank Høj

Danish cyclist and Olympian
Born
January 4th, 1973 52 years ago

Born in 1973, a cyclist who specialized in road racing. Competed in the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, representing Denmark in the cycling events. Participated in various prestigious races throughout the career, gaining recognition in the European cycling circuit. Known for strong performances in stage races and one-day events.

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Uday Chopra

Actor in Dhoom series and filmmaker
Born
January 5th, 1973 52 years ago

An actor and filmmaker, Uday Chopra is best recognized for roles in the 'Dhoom' film series, particularly in 'Dhoom', 'Dhoom 2', and 'Dhoom 3'. In addition to acting, engaged in production activities as a co-founder of Yash Raj Films' production division. His participation in the Dhoom franchise contributed to its popularity in Bollywood. Chopra has also ventured into scriptwriting and filmmaking, expanding his creative repertoire beyond acting.

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Vasso Karantasiou

Greek beach volleyball player
Born
January 6th, 1973 52 years ago

Competed in beach volleyball and represented Greece in various international competitions. Key achievements include participation in European Championships and World Tour events. Achieved notable rankings within the sport and contributed to the growth of beach volleyball in Greece through competitive play.

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Mike Cameron

Baseball player and All-Star outfielder
Born
January 8th, 1973 52 years ago

An accomplished baseball player, played in Major League Baseball (MLB) from 1995 to 2011. Primarily played as an outfielder for several teams, including the Chicago White Sox, Seattle Mariners, and Boston Red Sox. Achieved recognition for outstanding defensive skills and power hitting throughout his career. Selected as an All-Star in 2001, contributing to a successful season with the Mariners. Demonstrated consistency at the plate, recording multiple seasons with over 20 home runs. Concluded playing career with a solid reputation for versatility and athleticism.

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Sean Paul

Jamaican rapper and singer-songwriter
Born
January 9th, 1973 52 years ago

This artist gained popularity in the early 2000s with a unique blend of reggae, dancehall, and hip-hop. Famed for hit singles such as 'Get Busy' and 'Temperature', achieved significant chart success worldwide. Released several albums, including 'Dutty Rock' and 'The Trinity', which contributed to the global spread of Jamaican music. Collaborated with various artists and producers, enhancing the crossover appeal of dancehall music. Received multiple awards, including Grammy Awards for Best Reggae Album.

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Angela Bettis

Actress and director in horror cinema
Born
January 9th, 1973 52 years ago

An actress and director recognized for contributions in the horror genre. Gained prominence with a leading role in the film 'May' and portrayed key characters in 'Girl, Interrupted' and 'The Woods'. Directed the film 'Sick Girl', which won several awards in independent film circuits. Worked in television with notable appearances in series like 'Breaking Bad' and 'The Curse of Oak Island'.

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People Who Died in 1973 (View all 261)

Coleman Francis

American actor and filmmaker
Born
January 24th, 1919 106 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1973 52 years ago — 53 years old

An actor, director, and producer emerged in the film industry during the mid-20th century. Directed and starred in cult classic films, including the low-budget science fiction movie 'The Beast of Yucca Flats' and the award-winning 'Skydivers'. Contributed to the production of several notable works that gained a following over time. Involved in the film community, influencing the genre of independent cinema through unique storytelling and innovative techniques.

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Ivan Petrovsky

Mathematician and academic
Born
January 18th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1973 52 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent mathematician and academic, contributions spanned various areas of mathematics, notably in the fields of functional analysis and topology. Held a significant role at Moscow State University, where influenced multiple generations of mathematicians. Published numerous research papers that advanced the understanding of mathematical principles. Recognized for contributions that shaped mathematical education in the Soviet Union.

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Irina Nikolaevna Levchenko

Russian tank commander during WWII
Born
1924 101 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1973 52 years ago — 49 years old

Served as a tank commander during World War II, participating in significant battles on the Eastern Front. Commanded a tank battalion and successfully led troops in various engagements against German forces. Displayed exceptional leadership skills and tactical acumen, contributing to the Soviet war effort. Awarded multiple honors for bravery in combat and recognized for exemplary service throughout the conflict. Continued a career in military service after the war.

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Max Adrian

Irish-English actor, featured in TV and Theater
Born
November 1st, 1903 121 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1973 52 years ago — 69 years old

An Irish-English actor prominent in the mid-20th century, became notable for stage performances and television roles. Gained recognition for work in the long-running British television series 'The Forsyte Saga', adapted from John Galsworthy's novels. Also received acclaim for theatrical performances in productions such as 'The Crucible' and 'The Doll's House', showcasing versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles. Contributed significantly to the arts through performances in various plays and series, influencing the landscape of British theater and television during his career, which spanned several decades until his death in 1973.

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Amílcar Cabral

Guinea Bissauan-Cape Verdian politician
Born
September 12th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1973 52 years ago — 48 years old

A prominent political figure and revolutionary leader, contributions in the struggle for independence in Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde defined a significant part of the mid-20th century decolonization effort in Africa. Cabral co-founded the African Party for the Independence of Guinea and Cape Verde (PAIGC), aiming to combat colonial rule. His strategies combined guerrilla warfare with political mobilization, working to unify the people against Portuguese colonialism. Through extensive political writings and theorizing, he advocated for colonial liberation and emphasized the importance of cultural identity in the fight for independence. Cabral was assassinated in 1973, shortly before the success of the liberation movement.

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Lyndon B. Johnson

36th President of the United States
Born
August 27th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1973 52 years ago — 64 years old

Served as the 36th President of the United States from 1963 to 1969. Assumed presidency after the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Focused on domestic policies under the Great Society initiative, which aimed to eliminate poverty and racial injustice. Significant legislation included the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Increased American involvement in the Vietnam War during his administration, which led to widespread protests and political controversy. Did not seek reelection in 1968 amid declining popularity. Died on January 22, 1973.

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