What Happened This Year 1975

People Who Died in 1975

Knut Kroon

Swedish footballer, represented Sweden
Born
June 19th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 69 years old

Played as a midfielder, Kroon had a career in Swedish football, notably with Örebro SK. He represented the Swedish national team and participated in the 1934 FIFA World Cup. Kroon was part of the early wave of footballers who helped shape the sport in Sweden during the early 20th century. His contributions on the field were significant during a period known for the development of professional football in the country.

Continue Reading

William Hartnell

English actor; original Doctor Who
Born
January 8th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 67 years old

An English actor achieved prominence for portraying the First Doctor in the long-running television series Doctor Who. The role, initiated in 1963, set the foundation for a franchise that would evolve over decades. Hartnell's performance was characterized by a unique blend of authority, warmth, and charm, capturing the complexities of the character. Before Doctor Who, a career included various stage performances and films, contributing to a robust theatrical presence. Hartnell's transition to television marked a significant turn in his career, with the role of the Doctor defining his legacy.

Continue Reading

Al Helfer

American sportscaster and announcer
Born
September 26th, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 64 years old

A sportscaster associated with Major League Baseball, contributed significantly to the broadcasting of baseball games. Worked for several stations including WNBC and had a notable stint with the New York Yankees. Voiced the famous 'This is your life' segment for the Yankees broadcast. Helfer became a fixture in the baseball community through his engaging commentary and insights. His career spanned several decades, highlighting key moments in baseball history.

Continue Reading

David Marshall Williams

Firearms designer and convicted murderer
Born
November 13th, 1900 124 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed to the design of the M1 Garand rifle, a key firearm used by the United States military during World War II. Williams served time in prison for murder, where he developed his skills and knowledge of firearms. His work greatly influenced military firearms development, particularly in semi-automatic rifle design. After release, he continued to work in firearms design and consultation.

Continue Reading

Juliette Béliveau

Canadian actress and singer
Born
October 28th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 86 years old

An accomplished actress and singer, celebrated for contributions to the performing arts in Canada. Achieved recognition in the early 20th century, with performances in various theatrical productions and musical pieces. Enacted significant roles in popular plays that showcased talent and versatility. Also contributed to the growth of the artistic community in Canada through teaching and encouragement of new artists.

Continue Reading

John Vachon

Photographer and journalist
Born
May 19th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 61 years old

Contributed to documentary photography through work with the Farm Security Administration during the Great Depression. Captured significant aspects of American life and culture, showcasing rural communities and their struggles. Later worked for numerous magazines, including Fortune and Life, demonstrating a range of styles in photojournalism. Involved in various photo exhibitions, preserving social history and poignant narratives through images.

Continue Reading

Gleb W. Derujinsky

Sculptor and creator of war memorials
Born
August 13th, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Russia, a sculptor migrated to the United States and gained recognition for architectural sculpture and memorials. Contributed extensively to the visual arts, focusing on public works that commemorate significant events and figures. Worked on a variety of prominent projects, showcasing a blend of style and thematic depth in sculpture. Maintained a studio in New York City, where many pieces were created and displayed, influencing the public's perception of modern sculpture through compelling designs.

Continue Reading

Sid Gordon

Baseball player and All-Star outfielder
Born
August 13th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 58 years old

Played Major League Baseball from 1941 to 1955, primarily as an outfielder. Competed for the Boston Braves, New York Giants, and Pittsburgh Pirates. Achieved a career batting average of .282 and was selected as an All-Star in 1949. Contributed significantly to the teams' successes during his tenure, particularly noted for his performance alongside future Hall of Famers.

Continue Reading

Boy Charlton

Australian Olympic swimmer
Born
August 12th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 68 years old

An accomplished swimmer, achieved recognition in the 1920s and 1930s. Competed in the 1924 Paris Olympics, winning a gold medal in the 1500-meter freestyle event and a bronze in the 100-meter freestyle. Set multiple world records during competitive swimming career and earned titles in various national championships. He belonged to the influential era of Australian swimming that fostered a legacy of excellence in the sport.

Continue Reading