What Happened This Year 1975

People Who Died in 1975

Alicja Dorabialska

Polish chemist and researcher
Born
October 14th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1975 51 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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Gustavo Rojas Pinilla

Colombian President and Army General
Born
March 12th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1975 51 years ago — 75 years old

Elected as the 19th President of Colombia, Rojas Pinilla served from 1953 to 1957, leading the country during a period of military rule. Prior to his presidency, Rojas Pinilla had a distinguished military career, culminating in the rank of general. His regime was marked by attempts to modernize Colombia, including infrastructure projects and social reforms. The presidency ended in 1957 when a general strike and political unrest led to his resignation. Following his departure from politics, he returned to the military and later founded a political movement.

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Boy Charlton

Australian Olympic swimmer
Born
August 12th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1975 51 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.

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Knut Kroon

Swedish footballer, represented Sweden
Born
June 19th, 1906 119 years ago
Died
1975 51 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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Sid Gordon

Baseball player and All-Star outfielder
Born
August 13th, 1917 108 years ago
Died
1975 51 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 51 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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David Marshall Williams

Firearms designer and convicted murderer
Born
November 13th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1975 51 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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Antonín Novotný

Czechoslovak politician and president
Born
December 10th, 1904 121 years ago
Died
1975 51 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the President of Czechoslovak Socialist Republic from 1957 to 1968. Held the position of General Secretary of the Communist Party of Czechoslovakia from 1953 to 1968. His leadership was characterized by a commitment to socialist policies and adherence to Soviet influence during the Cold War period. Promoted various economic reforms and sought to maintain the Communist regime in Czechoslovakia amidst growing political dissent.

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Joseph Bech

Luxembourgish politician, Prime Minister
Born
February 17th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
1975 51 years ago — 88 years old

A lawyer and politician who served as the 15th Prime Minister of Luxembourg from 1953 to 1958. Played a significant role in the formation of the European Economic Community. Served multiple terms as a member of the Chamber of Deputies and held various ministerial positions throughout his career, including Minister of Foreign Affairs. Contributed to the development of Luxembourg's post-war foreign policy.

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