What Happened This Year 1901

Born in 1901

Hap Day

Ice hockey player and referee
Born
June 1st, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1990 35 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1901, a prominent figure in Canadian ice hockey played as a defenseman for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Contributed to the team's success during the 1930s, winning three Stanley Cup championships. Transitioned into officiating, becoming a referee in the National Hockey League, and later served as a manager. Known for a long and impactful career within the sport, both on and off the ice.

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Tom Gorman

Australian rugby league player
Born
June 1st, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 77 years old

Played rugby league primarily for Western Suburbs in the 1920s and 1930s. Competed in several New South Wales Rugby League seasons and contributed to the development of the sport during this period. Represented New South Wales in various matches and participated in the 1933 State of Origin series.

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Maurice Evans

English-American actor in film and theater
Born
June 3rd, 1901 123 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1989 36 years ago — 87 years old

Achievements included a successful career in film and theater. Starred in the original Broadway production of 'Hamlet' in 1936, receiving critical acclaim for the role. Featured in numerous films, including 'Planet of the Apes' and 'The War of the Worlds'. Served as a member of the Army during World War II, contributing to the war effort. Known for performances that combined gravitas with an approachable demeanor.

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Zhang Xueliang

Chinese general and warlord
Born
June 3rd, 1901 123 years ago
Died
October 15th, 2001 23 years ago — 100 years old

A military leader in early 20th century China, played a significant role during the Warlord Era. Commanded the Northeastern Army, leading campaigns against rival warlords. In 1936, he played a pivotal role in the Xi'an Incident, which resulted in the temporary detention of the Kuomintang leader Chiang Kai-shek to unite against Japanese aggression. After the incident, he spent decades in internal exile, influencing Chinese politics from behind the scenes before his eventual relocation to the United States.

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Sukarno

Politician and 1st President of Indonesia
Born
June 6th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1970 54 years ago — 69 years old

An Indonesian engineer and politician served as the first President of Indonesia from 1945 to 1967. Played a crucial role in the country's struggle for independence from Dutch colonial rule. Helped establish a national identity and promoted the concept of 'guided democracy'. Oversaw significant national development projects and advocated for non-alignment during the Cold War. His presidency ended amid economic difficulties and political turmoil, leading to his eventual resignation.

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Jan Struther

English author and hymnwriter, Mrs. Miniver
Born
June 6th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1953 72 years ago — 52 years old

An English author, poet, and hymnwriter, gained prominence through the character Mrs. Miniver, a fictional figure representing the British homefront during World War II. The character first appeared in a series of newspaper articles in 1937, later expanded into a novel and adapted into an acclaimed film in 1942. This work resonated with the changing attitudes of the era, depicting the challenges faced by ordinary people amidst the backdrop of war. In addition to creative writing, contributions to literature included poetry and hymn writing, establishing a lasting legacy in both fields.

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Frederick Loewe

Composer of Broadway musicals
Born
June 10th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1988 37 years ago — 86 years old

A German-American composer collaborated with lyricist Alan Jay Lerner to create several successful Broadway musicals. Major works include 'My Fair Lady', 'Gigi', and 'Brigadoon'. The partnership produced some of the most enduring scores in American theater, blending rich melodies with compelling narratives. Loewe's contributions helped to elevate Broadway music during the mid-20th century, leaving a lasting legacy in musical theater.

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Benny Wearing

Rugby league player with Australian club St. George
Born
June 11th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 67 years old

Played rugby league for St. George between 1922 and 1928. Contributed to the team's strong performance during his tenure. Participated in multiple matches that highlighted his skills on the field.

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Tage Erlander

Swedish politician and Prime Minister
Born
June 13th, 1901 123 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1985 39 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the 25th Prime Minister of Sweden from 1943 to 1969. Focused on social welfare policies and economic stability during a time of significant post-war reconstruction. Led the Social Democratic Party, fostering a strong alliance with labor unions. Efforts centered on expanding the welfare state and managing industrial relations, contributing to Sweden's reputation as a social democratic nation. Oversaw a period of economic growth and established a framework for modern Swedish social policies.

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