What Happened This Year 1975

People Who Died in 1975

Thomas Hart Benton

American painter and muralist
Born
April 15th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1975 50 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent American painter and muralist, this individual played a key role in the Regionalist art movement during the early 20th century. Training at the Chicago Art Institute and in Paris, this artist's works celebrated American life and culture through vivid colors and dynamic forms. Significant contributions included murals in various public buildings, and the artist also served as an educator, influencing a new generation of artists and educators. This individual’s artistic style reflected a fascination with the American landscape, history, and people.

Continue Reading

Larry Fine

Comedian and member of The Three Stooges
Born
October 5th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1975 50 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent American comedian, Fine became a core member of the comedy team The Three Stooges. This group, characterized by its slapstick humor and physical comedy, gained wide acclaim during the early to mid-20th century. Fine's unique curly hair and violin-playing skills set him apart within the trio. The Stooges appeared in over 190 films, blending laughter with physical antics. Their work continues to influence comedy today.

Continue Reading

Charlotte Whitton

Canadian Journalist and Politician
Born
March 8th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1975 50 years ago — 78 years old

Served as the 46th Mayor of Ottawa, holding office from 1951 to 1956. Worked as a prominent journalist, contributing to issues related to women and social welfare. Played a significant role in the development of public services in Ottawa. Advocated for women's rights throughout her career and was a key figure in various civic organizations. Pioneered efforts for childcare and family support within the city.

Continue Reading

Gustave Lanctot

Canadian historian and academic
Born
July 5th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1975 50 years ago — 91 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of Canadian history through numerous publications and academic work. Held a prominent position in historiography, particularly focusing on the French and British colonial periods in Canada. Served as a professor at the Université de Montréal and wrote several important texts that influenced historical perspectives. Engaged in various scholarly activities that promoted Canadian history and heritage.

Continue Reading

Umm Kulthum

Renowned Egyptian singer and actress
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1975 50 years ago — 71 years old

An iconic figure in Arabic music and culture, this artist gained popularity during the 20th century through powerful vocal performances. Celebrated for emotive interpretations, the artist became a leading voice in Egypt and a symbol of Arab pride. Through a series of concert tours and recordings, the artist's music reached a broad audience and influenced generations. The artist starred in Egyptian films such as 'Wedad' and 'Fatma', further expanding her appeal. Renowned for unique musical style, the artist left a lasting legacy in the music industry.

Continue Reading

William D. Coolidge

Physicist and engineer known for X-ray tube
Born
October 23rd, 1873 151 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1975 50 years ago — 101 years old

Contributions to physics and engineering included significant advancements in X-ray technology. Developed the Coolidge tube, an innovation that improved X-ray imaging quality and efficiency, which played a crucial role in medical diagnostics. Work in the field of thermionic emission led to further exploration in electron microscopy. Registered numerous patents during a prolific career, contributing to both academic and practical aspects of engineering.

Continue Reading

Louis Jordan

American singer-songwriter and saxophonist
Born
July 8th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1975 50 years ago — 66 years old

A notable figure in the transition from jazz to rhythm and blues, this musician's career spanned several decades, particularly active during the 1930s and 1940s. Often referred to as the 'King of the Jukebox', contributions to the music scene included popularizing jump blues, a genre that fused jazz, blues, and swing. Achieved mainstream success with the hit songs 'Caldonia' and 'Choo Choo Ch'Boogie', which became anthems during the era. Collaborated with various artists while leading a band known for its vibrant performances and innovative sound. Made significant strides in the popularization of the saxophone in popular music, influencing later musicians.

Continue Reading

Robert Robinson

Chemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 13th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1975 50 years ago — 88 years old

English chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of organic chemistry. Conducted extensive research on alkaloids, leading to advancements in understanding their structure and properties. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1947 for work on the structure of certain alkaloids and their synthesis. Served as a professor at several prestigious institutions, influencing future generations of chemists through teaching and mentorship.

Continue Reading

Carl Lutz

Swiss vice-consul and humanitarian efforts
Born
March 30th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1975 50 years ago — 79 years old

Served as the Swiss vice-consul in Hungary during World War II. Facilitated the issuance of protective letters, which helped save thousands of Jews from deportation and persecution. Worked tirelessly to negotiate and provide asylum for those fleeing the Nazi regime. His efforts contributed to the survival of over 62,000 Jews, making a significant impact during a time of immense crisis. Continued advocacy for humanitarian causes after the war and focused on raising awareness about the Holocaust.

Continue Reading