What Happened This Year 1973

People Who Died in 1973

David Akeman

American banjo player and singer
Born
June 17th, 1915 111 years ago
Died
1973 53 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.

Continue Reading

Memphis Minnie

American blues singer-songwriter
Born
June 3rd, 1897 129 years ago
Died
1973 53 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1897, a significant figure in the blues genre, contributed as both a singer and guitarist. Played a crucial role in the development of the Chicago blues scene in the 1930s. Recorded numerous tracks, which showcased both vocal and instrumental proficiency. Collaborated with prominent musicians and recorded for major labels. Continued to perform and influence the music landscape until the 1950s.

Continue Reading

Romeo Bertini

Italian runner and Olympic competitor
Born
April 21st, 1893 133 years ago
Died
1973 53 years ago — 80 years old

Competed in middle-distance running events, particularly in the 800 meters. Participated in the 1920 Summer Olympics held in Antwerp, Belgium. Won the 1920 Italian Athletics Championships in the 800 meters, showcasing exceptional speed and stamina. Contributed to the development of athletics in Italy during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Laurens Hammond

Engineer and Founder of Hammond Organ
Born
January 11th, 1895 131 years ago
Died
1973 53 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1895, an engineer and businessman established the Hammond Clock Company, which later developed the Hammond organ. The Hammond organ became a staple in various music genres, including jazz, rock, and gospel. The company produced innovative instruments that significantly changed the landscape of music performance and recording. His work in electromechanical design and music technology contributed to the evolution of organ music during the 20th century.

Continue Reading

Clarence White

American guitarist and musician
Born
June 7th, 1944 82 years ago
Died
1973 53 years ago — 29 years old

A prominent American guitarist and singer engaged in the folk and rock music scenes. Played a crucial role in the band The Byrds, contributing to their distinctive sound during the late 1960s. Also part of the bluegrass family band, The Kentucky Colonels. His guitar style combined elements of folk, rock, and country, influencing many musicians. Notable for pioneering the use of various guitar techniques that became standards in modern music.

Continue Reading

Konstantinos Dovas

Greek general and Prime Minister
Born
December 20th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1973 53 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the 156th Prime Minister of Greece during a challenging period in the country's history. Held significant military positions and contributed to the military strategies of Greece in various conflicts. Actively engaged in political affairs and was involved in initiatives related to governance and military reforms. His leadership occurred during a time of political instability and conflict.

Continue Reading

Jules Ladoumègue

French record-setting runner
Born
December 10th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1973 53 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1906, a prominent French runner specialized in middle-distance events, particularly the 1500 meters. Achieved significant success during the 1920s and 1930s, becoming one of the leading athletes of his time. Won numerous national titles and set multiple world records, contributing to the evolution of the sport. Participated in the 1924 Paris Olympics, finishing in fourth place in the men's 1500 meters final. Later, secured a notable victory at the 1933 World Championships in Athletics held in Helsinki, Finland. His athletic career left a lasting legacy in French athletics and middle-distance running.

Continue Reading

Charles Stewart Mott

American businessman and politician
Born
June 2nd, 1875 151 years ago
Died
1973 53 years ago — 98 years old

A businessman and politician served as the 50th Mayor of Flint, Michigan. Mott played a pivotal role in the automotive industry, co-founding the Mott Foundation, which supported various charitable causes. His contributions to local governance significantly influenced community development and quality of life in Flint.

Continue Reading

Arna Bontemps

American librarian and poet
Born
October 13th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1973 53 years ago — 71 years old

Contributed significantly to the Harlem Renaissance as an author, poet, and librarian. Bontemps wrote several acclaimed works, including the poetry collection "Black Thunder" and the historical novel "Filled with Thunder." Bontemps served as a librarian in various capacities, promoting literature and culture within the African American community. Researched and wrote about African American history and literature. Bontemps also held teaching positions at institutions including Fisk University.

Continue Reading