What Happened This Year 1973

People Who Died in 1973

Lex Barker

American actor in Tarzan films
Born
May 8th, 1919 105 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 54 years old

An American actor, primarily recognized for starring as Tarzan in a series of films during the 1950s. Achieved significant popularity through roles in adventure films and westerns. Began his career in the 1940s, transitioning to feature films from television roles. Portrayed the titular role in 'Tarzan's Magic Fountain' and other adaptations, contributing to the era's cinematic portrayal of the character. Appeared in numerous films throughout the 1950s and 1960s, solidifying a place in Hollywood during that period.

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Mary Fuller

American actress and screenwriter
Born
October 5th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent figure in the early silent film era, served both as an actress and a screenwriter. Achieved recognition for performances in films such as 'The Last of the Line' and 'A Fool There Was'. Transitioned into screenwriting, contributing to various projects throughout her career. Played a significant role in the development of narrative cinema during the 1910s and 1920s.

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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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Sam Katzman

Film director and producer for Hollywood
Born
July 7th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent figure in the American film industry, this individual directed and produced numerous films throughout the mid-20th century. Significant contributions to the horror genre included directing the film "The Werewolf" in 1956 and producing the popular series of low-budget horror movies. Operational within the B-movie circuit, produced works for Columbia Pictures and Monogram Pictures. Became known for efficiency in filmmaking, often completing productions quickly and under budget. Worked on more than 100 films, showcasing versatility across various genres.

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Stanton Macdonald-Wright

American painter with notable works
Born
July 8th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 83 years old

An American painter created significant contributions to the avant-garde art movement in the early 20th century. Macdonald-Wright co-founded the group called the Dynamic Movement and focused on color theory and abstraction. He studied at the Art Students League in New York and later traveled to Paris, where he was influenced by the European avant-garde. Throughout his career, he held numerous exhibitions showcasing his modernist style. His work emphasized the response to color and form, which set the stage for future abstract artists. He also served as an educator, teaching art at various institutions, influencing a generation of young artists.

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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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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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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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