What Happened This Year 1974

People Who Died in 1974

Ayub Khan

Pakistani General and 2nd President
Born
May 14th, 1907 117 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 67 years old

A military officer and politician, held the position of President of Pakistan from 1958 to 1969. Played a significant role in shaping Pakistan's foreign policy during the Cold War. Implemented various economic reforms and introduced development projects aimed at modernization. Oversaw the introduction of the 1962 Constitution, which established a presidential system. Faced political opposition and civil unrest that led to his resignation.

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Lajos Zilahy

Hungarian novelist and playwright
Born
March 27th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 83 years old

A notable Hungarian novelist and playwright, produced works that explored themes of love, war, and humanity. Wrote several acclaimed novels and plays, contributing significantly to Hungarian literature. His writing often reflected the socio-political climate of his time, particularly during the tumultuous years surrounding the two World Wars.

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Chic Harley

American football player; two-time All-American
Born
September 15th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 80 years old

Played college football at Ohio State University, where contributions led to significant team success. Achievements included winning the Big Ten Championship in 1916 and 1917. Recognized as a two-time All-American, showcasing skills as a standout player in the early days of college football. After college, had a brief career in professional football, playing for teams in the early leagues. Transitioned into coaching, influencing the game at various levels.

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Gopalswamy Doraiswamy Naidu

Indian engineer and businessman
Born
March 23rd, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 81 years old

An eminent engineer and businessman, contributed significantly to various infrastructure projects in India. Founded G. D. Naidu and Company, specializing in engineering and manufacturing. Established educational institutions to promote technical education, notably G.D. Naidu Technical Institute. Played a pivotal role in promoting industrialization in South India and was actively involved in various engineering societies.

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Mary R. Calvert

American astronomer and author
Born
June 20th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 90 years old

An American astronomer contributed significantly to the field of astronomy and wrote several influential works on the subject. Active in the early 20th century, engagement in scientific communities helped to advance research in stellar photography and celestial mechanics. Calvert's collaborations with peers and involvement in scientific organizations facilitated broader discussions on astronomical discoveries.

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Jean Daniélou

French cardinal and theologian
Born
May 14th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent French theologian and cardinal, contributed significantly to Catholic theology during the 20th century. Played a pivotal role at the Second Vatican Council, promoting dialogue between the Catholic Church and various other faiths. Served as a member of the Council for the Promotion of Christian Unity and authored numerous theological works that explored the relationship between faith and culture. Held teaching positions at institutions such as the Institut Catholique de Paris, influencing many future theologians and priests.

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José Mojica

Mexican tenor and actor in opera
Born
September 14th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 78 years old

Acclaimed for performances in opera and film, this tenor gained recognition in the early 20th century. Renowned for the role in the opera "Santa,” the artist showcased remarkable vocal ability and expressive performance. Alongside operatic work, the actor appeared in Mexican films, contributing to the cultural landscape of the era. His legacy is marked by a blend of classical music and cinematic storytelling.

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Fritz Zwicky

Physicist and astronomer, dark matter theory
Born
February 14th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 76 years old

Born in Switzerland, Zwicky made significant contributions to astrophysics and cosmology. He developed the concept of dark matter and introduced the term 'supernova' to describe stellar explosions. His work on galaxy clusters led to the discovery of gravitational lensing, a phenomenon where light from distant objects is bent by massive foreground galaxies. Zwicky's research provided crucial insights into the mass distribution of galaxies and the structure of the universe. He also contributed to the development of the TFO method for tracing cosmic rays, which helped further the understanding of particle physics.

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Johanna Langefeld

Nazi concentration camp supervisor
Born
March 5th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 74 years old

Born in Germany, served as a guard during World War II at three Nazi concentration camps. Oversaw prisoner treatment and operations within the camps, which were part of the broader Nazi regime's network. Involved in enforcing the policies of the camp system and contributed to the war efforts through the management of detainees. Eventually became a part of post-war investigations regarding war crimes, facing scrutiny for actions taken during her tenure.

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