What Happened This Year 1973

People Who Died in 1973

Gerard Kuiper

Astronomer and lunar crater namesake
Born
December 7th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 68 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, particularly in lunar and planetary studies. Formulated the Kuiper Belt theory, which describes a region of the solar system beyond Neptune populated with small icy bodies. Played a key role in the discovery and analysis of several celestial bodies, including the planet Uranus and its moons. Served as a professor and director of the Lunar and Planetary Laboratory at the University of Arizona.

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Nikos Zachariadis

Greek politician and Communist leader
Born
April 27th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent figure in Greek politics, exerted influence as a leading member of the Communist Party. Served as the general secretary from 1931 until 1956. He played a crucial role in the Greek Civil War, advocating for communist ideology amid intense conflict. Following the war, faced significant political challenges and was ultimately imprisoned for his beliefs. Contributed to the establishment of communist structures in Greece during the post-war period.

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Al Sherman

Tin Pan Alley era songwriter
Born
September 7th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent songwriter during the Tin Pan Alley era, contributed to the development of American popular music. Collaborated with various artists and wrote numerous hit songs that defined the genre. Songs often featured in Broadway shows and popular recordings throughout the early to mid-20th century. Worked alongside notable figures in the music industry, creating a lasting legacy within the songwriting community.

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H. B. Stallard

Runner and surgeon, Olympic competitor
Born
April 28th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 72 years old

Competed as a runner representing England in the marathon. Participated in the 1924 Summer Olympics. Later pursued a career in medicine, becoming a recognized surgeon. Contributed to the field of surgery while balancing an athletic career. His athletic achievements and medical career made significant contributions to both sports and healthcare.

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Robert Ryan

American actor in classic films
Born
November 11th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 64 years old

An actor emerged in the 1940s and gained recognition for work in film noir and Western genres. Featured in significant films including 'Crossfire,' which highlighted themes of prejudice, and 'The Wild Bunch,' a classic Western. Utilized intense performances and strong character portrayals. Worked extensively with directors such as Nicholas Ray and Samuel Fuller, contributing to the legacy of classic American cinema.

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Marie-Anne Desmarest

French author and children's writer
Born
May 17th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1904, an author primarily focused on children's literature. Produced several works that contributed to the genre in France. Wrote stories that captured the imagination of young readers and were characterized by engaging narratives and rich illustrations. Published various books that were well-received by audiences and critics alike, with a particular emphasis on themes relevant to childhood experiences.

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Robert Cushman Murphy

Ornithologist and author of 'Birds of the West Indies'
Born
April 29th, 1887 137 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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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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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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