What Happened This Year 1975

People Who Died in 1975

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Arvo Askola

Finnish runner and Olympic competitor
Born
December 2nd, 1909 115 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 66 years old

An accomplished runner from Finland, this athlete participated in the 1936 Summer Olympics held in Berlin. Specializing in long-distance events, he focused on the 5000 meters and the 10,000 meters races. Recognized for competitive performances, he contributed to the legacy of Finnish distance running during his era.

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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.

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Alicja Dorabialska

Polish chemist and researcher
Born
October 14th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 78 years old

Contributed to the field of chemistry with significant research in organic compounds and their applications. Worked at various scientific institutions during a prolific career in Poland. Published numerous papers that advanced understanding in organic synthesis. Was involved in teaching, mentoring students in chemistry and fostering a new generation of scientists.

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Bobby Cruickshank

American golfer, 1921 PGA Championship
Born
November 16th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 81 years old

Engaged in professional golf, achieved prominence during the 1920s. Played in several major tournaments, with significant success in the PGA Championship. Secured the 1921 PGA Championship, marking a notable career highlight. Competed in the Masters Tournament multiple times, contributing to the sport's competitive landscape. Also participated in the U.S. Open and British Open, demonstrating skills across various venues.

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Michał Sopoćko

Polish cleric and academic, influential theologian
Born
November 1st, 1888 137 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 87 years old

A Polish cleric and academic, played a significant role in the promotion of the Divine Mercy devotion. Worked closely with Saint Faustina Kowalska, the visionary behind the Divine Mercy message. Established the first Divine Mercy shrine in Poland, ensuring the message gained recognition. Contributed to theological literature and served as a professor at various academic institutions in Poland.

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