What Happened This Year 1973

People Who Died in 1973

Gustaf VI Adolf of Sweden

King of Sweden, cultural patron
Born
November 11th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1973 51 years ago — 90 years old

Reigned as King of Sweden from 1950 until death in 1973. Played a significant role in promoting Swedish culture and archaeology. Actively supported the arts, including theater, music, and literature. Worked on archaeological and historical research, particularly in relation to the Viking Age. Participated in royal duties and state affairs, maintaining a constitutional monarchy during a period of political change.

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Víctor Jara

Chilean singer-songwriter and poet
Born
September 28th, 1932 92 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1973 51 years ago — 40 years old

A singer-songwriter and poet, this individual played a key role in the Nueva Canción Chilena movement during the 1960s and early 1970s, which combined folk music with political themes. The individual was also a theater director and participated in social and political movements supporting the leftist government of Salvador Allende. The works often addressed social justice and the struggles of the Chilean people. After the military coup in 1973, the individual was arrested and later killed, solidifying the legacy as an emblematic figure of resistance against dictatorship in Chile.

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Gram Parsons

Singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
November 5th, 1946 78 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1973 51 years ago — 26 years old

A significant figure in the country rock genre, contributed to the formation of the musical style characterized by blending country music with rock elements. Played in the bands The Byrds and The Flying Burrito Brothers and released influential solo albums. The work featured a seamless mix of traditional country sounds with rock and pop influences, paving the way for future artists in the genre.

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Jim Croce

Singer-songwriter, lyricist, guitarist
Born
January 10th, 1943 82 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1973 51 years ago — 30 years old

Born in 1943, this American singer-songwriter gained fame in the early 1970s. His music combined folk, rock, and pop elements, resonating with a wide audience. The artist's career was marked by the release of several successful albums and hits, including 'You Don’t Mess Around with Jim' and 'Time in a Bottle'. Tragically, a plane crash in 1973 cut short a promising career.

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Paul van Zeeland

Belgian politician, 38th Prime Minister
Born
1893 132 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1973 51 years ago — 80 years old

A lawyer and economist, served as the 38th Prime Minister of Belgium from 1935 to 1936. Oversaw government operations during a challenging economic period. Focused on social and economic policies, contributing to Belgium's recovery efforts. Engaged in international diplomacy, representing Belgium in various European discussions.

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Pablo Neruda

Chilean poet and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 12th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1973 51 years ago — 69 years old

A significant figure in 20th-century literature, this individual authored numerous works of poetry, contributing to various literary styles and themes. His career as a diplomat complemented his literary pursuits, engaging with political issues of his time. His collection of poems, 'Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair', gained international acclaim and showcased passionate themes and lyrical beauty. The Nobel Prize in Literature was awarded in recognition of exceptional literary impact and contribution.

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Josué de Castro

Brazilian physician and activist
Born
September 5th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1973 51 years ago — 65 years old

A physician and geographer focused on public health and nutrition. Specialized in the study of hunger and food security, advocating for social reform policies to combat poverty. Contributed significantly to the field of geography with research emphasizing the relationship between health and environmental factors. Served as a senator in Brazil, promoting human rights and health advancements. Published influential works, including 'Geografia da Fome' (Geography of Hunger), which analyzed the causes and effects of hunger in Brazil.

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Anna Magnani

Italian actress from Rome
Born
March 7th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1973 51 years ago — 65 years old

An acclaimed Italian actress took the film industry by storm with powerful performances. Born in Rome, she became a prominent figure in Italian cinema during the 1940s and 1950s. Recognized for her intense emotional range, she portrayed complex characters in various films. Notable works include 'Rome, Open City' and 'The Rose Tattoo', both of which showcased her remarkable talent. In 1955, she received an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in 'The Rose Tattoo', marking a significant milestone in her career. Her contributions to film dramatically influenced Italian neorealism and established her as a leading figure in the industry.

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W. H. Auden

Poet and playwright of the 20th century
Born
February 21st, 1907 118 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1973 51 years ago — 66 years old

Auden emerged as a prominent figure in 20th-century literature, contributing significantly to poetry and drama. His works explored themes of love, politics, and human existence. Auden's poetry reflects modernist influences and complex emotional depth. He received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1948 for the collection 'The Age of Anxiety,' which also received critical acclaim as a landmark work. Auden's collaboration with composer Benjamin Britten on operas and vocal works further showcased his versatility. His literary career spanned several decades, leaving a lasting impact on the literary world.

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