What Happened This Year 1975

People Who Died in 1975

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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Dong Biwu

Chinese judge and politician, Chairman
Born
March 5th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1886, served as a judge and politician in China. Played a significant role in the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949. Held various governmental positions and actively participated in political activities during the early years of the republic. After the founding of the PRC, served as the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress from 1954 to 1975, contributing to legislative processes and governance during a transformative period in Chinese history.

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Erich Kempka

German colonel and chauffeur to Hitler
Born
September 16th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 65 years old

Served as a chauffeur for Adolf Hitler during World War II. Held the rank of colonel in the German Army and was actively involved in military operations. Contributed to the logistics and operations surrounding Hitler's movements and the day-to-day management at the Führerbunker. After the war, faced prosecution for actions taken during service but later released. His accounts and memoirs provide insight into the personal dynamics in Hitler's inner circle and the workings of the Nazi leadership.

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Ernst Alexanderson

Engineer and inventor of radio technology
Born
January 25th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 97 years old

Born in Sweden, Ernst Alexanderson emigrated to the United States where he developed significant advancements in radio technology. He contributed to the creation of the Alexanderson alternator, an early radio transmission device. This invention became pivotal in the evolution of radio communications. His work also included innovations in sound and video broadcasting, leading to improvements in radio and television transmission. Over his career, he acquired over 300 patents, making notable advancements in electrical engineering.

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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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Boris Blacher

Composer known for 'Kreuzfahrer' opera
Born
January 19th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1903, an influential German composer and playwright contributed significantly to music in the 20th century. Education at the Berlin Hochschule für Musik under prominent figures shaped the early career. Blacher's style integrated various musical trends, including jazz and avant-garde elements. The opera 'Kreuzfahrer' gained recognition, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern influences. Beyond opera, he composed for film and wrote numerous orchestral works.

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Alicja Dorabialska

Polish chemist and researcher
Born
October 14th, 1897 127 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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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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