What Happened This Year 1973

People Who Died in 1973

Louis St. Laurent

Canadian Prime Minister and lawyer
Born
February 1st, 1882 143 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1973 51 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent Canadian lawyer and politician served as the 12th Prime Minister of Canada from 1948 to 1957. Played a key role in the development of Canada's post-war policies and helped to establish the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Promoted Canadian unity and championed the construction of the Trans-Canada Highway. His tenure is noted for expanding Canada’s participation in international affairs and addressing domestic issues such as health care and social welfare reforms.

Continue Reading

Amy Jacques Garvey

Journalist and activist for Pan-Africanism
Born
1895 130 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1973 51 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent journalist and activist advanced the cause of Pan-Africanism through writings and advocacy. Played a key role in the Universal Negro Improvement Association (UNIA), an organization founded by Marcus Garvey. Authored several articles and books, including 'Garvey and Garveyism,' which outlined the philosophies and thoughts of Marcus Garvey. Edited the UNIA publication 'The Negro World,' providing a platform for voices advocating for Black empowerment and rights.

Continue Reading

Norm Smith

Australian football coach and player
Born
November 21st, 1915 109 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1973 51 years ago — 57 years old

Played Australian rules football for the Melbourne Football Club from 1937 to 1949 and served as the team's captain from 1947 to 1949. Transitioned to coaching, leading Melbourne to a series of premierships and establishing a significant coaching legacy. Known for innovative strategies and team management, which contributed to Melbourne's dominance in the 1950s.

Continue Reading

Roger Williamson

Race car driver and 1973 British GP participant
Born
February 2nd, 1948 77 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1973 51 years ago — 25 years old

Born in 1948 in England, this race car driver participated in various motorsport competitions. Achievements include competing in Formula One, specifically in the 1973 British Grand Prix, where a tragic accident occurred, leading to a halt in the race. The incident highlighted safety concerns in motorsport during that era. Additionally, prior to Formula One involvement, this driver was active in the British Formula 3 Championship, earning recognition during early career.

Continue Reading

Azumafuji Kin'ichi

Japanese sumo wrestler, 40th Yokozuna
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1973 51 years ago — 52 years old

Achieved the rank of Yokozuna, the highest title in sumo wrestling, during a successful career in the sport. Competed for the Asahiyama stable, showcasing exceptional skill and strength. Retired in 1966 and was later inducted into the Sumo Hall of Fame. Contributed to the sport's popularity in Japan.

Continue Reading

Gian Francesco Malipiero

Italian composer and music educator
Born
March 18th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1973 51 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1882, this Italian composer contributed significantly to 20th-century music through operas, orchestral works, and chamber music. Emphasizing the integration of traditional Italian musical elements with contemporary forms, the composer sought to establish a distinctive national style. Teaching at various institutions, he influenced generations of musicians in Italy. Notable works include a series of operas and symphonies, including 'L'aldilà' and 'Sinfonia Italiana'. Malipiero's role as a musicologist and curator of historical Italian music also shaped the discourse around Italy's musical heritage.

Continue Reading

Walter Ulbricht

German politician and leader of East Germany
Born
June 30th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1973 51 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1893, engaged in politics from an early age, becoming a significant figure in the German Communist Party. After World War II, played a crucial role in establishing the Socialist Unity Party, which led to the formation of the German Democratic Republic. Served as the First Secretary of the Socialist Unity Party from 1950 until 1973 and as the Chairman of the Council of State. Oversaw the construction of the Berlin Wall in 1961 to prevent emigration to West Germany. Integral in promoting the socialist agenda and aligning East Germany with the Soviet Union.

Continue Reading

Jean-Pierre Melville

French film director and screenwriter
Born
October 20th, 1917 107 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1973 51 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent figure in French cinema, contributions included directing influential films during the post-war era. Established a unique style that fused American noir with French storytelling, leading to the emergence of the 'nouvelle vague' movement. Key works included 'Le Samouraï', which showcased minimalistic dialogue and strong visual storytelling, and 'Les Enfants Terribles', an adaptation of Jean Cocteau's novel. Additionally, founded his own production company, which allowed for creative freedom in filmmaking.

Continue Reading

Ismail Abdul Rahman

Malaysian politician and prime minister
Born
November 4th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1973 51 years ago — 57 years old

Served as a prominent political figure in Malaysia, holding various key positions during a pivotal era in the country's history. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Federation of Malaysia and contributed to the development of national policies. His tenure included significant efforts in promoting economic growth and national unity, shaping the political landscape of Malaysia in the mid-20th century. Led the country as Prime Minister from 1963 to 1969, navigating through challenges of post-independence governance and fostering relationships with regional partners.

Continue Reading