What Happened This Year 1973

People Who Died in 1973

David Akeman

American banjo player and singer
Born
June 17th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1915, a prominent figure in American bluegrass music and country. Gained popularity through performances on the Grand Ole Opry. Acclaimed for contributions to the genre, combining traditional Appalachian music with contemporary styles. Played the banjo and sang, showcasing his talent at various venues and recordings. His energetic performances and distinctive style influenced many artists in the bluegrass and country music scenes.

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Willy Rey

Model and fashion figure
Born
August 13th, 1949 75 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 24 years old

Born in the Netherlands and later relocating to Canada, a notable model recognized for contributions to the fashion industry. Worked with various designers and brands, establishing a significant presence in modeling. Participated in numerous fashion shows and campaigns, showcasing styles that defined the era. Possessed a distinct look that resonated with audiences and contributed to the evolving landscape of fashion photography during the 1970s and 1980s.

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Alexander Neill

Scottish educator, founded Summerhill School
Born
October 17th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 90 years old

An educator established a progressive school in England that emphasized the importance of children's freedom and self-directed learning. This institution, Summerhill School, operated on democratic principles, allowing students to have a voice in their education. The approach challenged traditional educational methods and attracted attention worldwide. The writings and philosophies influenced educational reform and highlighted alternative methods of learning.

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Harry Edward

Guyanese-English sprinter Olympian
Born
April 15th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 75 years old

Born in Guyana and later residing in England, a prominent sprinter specialized in the 100 meters and 200 meters events. Competed in the 1920 Antwerp Olympics, representing Great Britain. Achieved significant milestones in the British amateur athletics circuit during the early 20th century, earning various local and national titles. His career was marked by remarkable performances that highlighted his speed and agility on the track.

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Henry Darger

Outsider artist and writer of 'In the Realms of the Unreal'
Born
April 12th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 81 years old

A reclusive individual, produced an extensive body of work during a lifetime spent in a Chicago home. Created an elaborate fantasy world chronicled in a 15,000-page novel titled 'In the Realms of the Unreal', featuring vivid illustrations. Darger's art often depicted children in fantastical settings and themes of innocence and conflict. Distributed his creations posthumously and garnered attention in the outsider art movement.

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Hans Kelsen

Jurist and philosopher of law
Born
October 11th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 92 years old

Born in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, contributions included developing the pure theory of law and influencing international law. Kelsen's work emphasized the separation of law and morality. Emigrated to the United States in 1940, where advocacy for legal positivism continued. Served as a professor at Harvard Law School and the University of California, Berkeley. His notable writings remain relevant in legal and philosophical discussions.

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Elsa Schiaparelli

Fashion Designer, Surrealist Collaborator
Born
September 10th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 83 years old

An influential fashion designer, created a significant impact in haute couture during the early to mid-20th century. Established the House of Schiaparelli in 1927 in Paris, where innovative designs challenged traditional fashion norms. Frequently collaborated with surrealist artists such as Salvador Dalí and Jean Cocteau, creating iconic pieces that blended art and fashion. Introduced the innovative 'Shocking Pink' color and the first gold lamé evening gown. Schiaparelli's work emphasized bold and imaginative designs, and she played a pivotal role in the rise of avant-garde fashion.

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Robert Cushman Murphy

Ornithologist and author of 'Birds of the West Indies'
Born
April 29th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 86 years old

An ornithologist contributed significantly to the understanding of bird species in the Caribbean. His most notable work, 'Birds of the West Indies', provided comprehensive insights into avian life in that region. Murphy served as a curator of birds at the American Museum of Natural History. Extensive field studies in various Caribbean islands balanced research and practical observation, leading to notable contributions in the field of ornithology. His detailed documentation of bird species established foundational knowledge for subsequent researchers.

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Ralph Stackpole

American sculptor and painter
Born
May 1st, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1885, this American sculptor and painter contributed significantly to the development of public art in the United States. The artist served as a professor of sculpture at the California School of Fine Arts, influencing a generation of artists. Various works include notable sculptures in public spaces, such as the bronze statue 'The Pioneer' in San Francisco. In addition to sculpture, the artist painted murals and participated in various exhibitions throughout his professional career.

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