What Happened This Year 1902

Born in 1902

Theodore Schultz

Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 30th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1998 27 years ago — 95 years old

An economist and academic contributed significantly to the analysis of human capital. Emphasized the importance of education and training in improving economic productivity. Authored pivotal works that explored the relationship between education and economic growth. His research laid the foundation for the development of the human capital theory. Received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1979 for contributions to the understanding of how education affects economic performance.

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Brian Aherne

English actor in classic films
Born
May 2nd, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 84 years old

An English actor active from the 1920s to the 1960s, primarily recognized for roles in classic films. Achieved acclaim for performances in 'The Man Who Knew Too Much' and 'Riptide'. Noticed for work in both British and American cinema, spanning across various genres. Collaborated with notable directors and actors, showcasing a versatile range throughout his career. Later transitioned to stage performances, including productions in London's West End.

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Alfred Kastler

Physicist, Nobel Prize in Physics 1966
Born
May 3rd, 1902 122 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1984 41 years ago — 81 years old

Contributions focused on atomic and molecular spectroscopy. Developed methods for studying atomic frequencies, leading to advances in laser technology. Significant work in the area of optical pumping garnered international recognition. Served as a professor in various academic institutions, influencing a generation of physicists.

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Max Ophüls

Film Director known for 'The Earrings of Madame de...'
Born
May 6th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1957 67 years ago — 54 years old

A celebrated director and screenwriter, this individual made significant contributions to cinema in the mid-20th century. Initially working in Germany, the rise of the Nazi regime prompted a move to the United States. The work focused on themes of love, betrayal, and fate, characterized by a unique visual style marked by long tracking shots and elegant storytelling. Notable films include 'The Earrings of Madame de...' and 'Letter from an Unknown Woman', which showcased intricate narratives and strong emotional resonance. The individual continued to influence filmmakers long after death in 1957, leaving a legacy of artistic excellence and craftsmanship in film-making.

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André Michel Lwoff

Microbiologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 8th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1994 30 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed significantly to the understanding of viruses and the mechanisms of cellular development. Worked extensively on bacterial viruses, focusing on the life cycle of bacteriophages and their genetic properties. Conducted research that provided insights into the processes of cellular differentiation and metabolism. Served as a professor at the University of Paris and held positions at several prestigious institutions.

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David O. Selznick

Film producer and screenwriter, Gone with the Wind
Born
May 10th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 1965 59 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent film producer and screenwriter became well-regarded for contributions to the American film industry, particularly during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Established the production company Selznick International Pictures. Produced the epic film 'Gone with the Wind', which won multiple Academy Awards and is considered one of the greatest films of all time. Also produced 'Rebecca', which received the Academy Award for Best Picture.

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Sigizmund Levanevsky

Soviet aircraft pilot of Polish origin
Born
May 15th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1937 87 years ago — 35 years old

Became a notable pilot in the Soviet Air Force, participating in various aviation expeditions. Achieved recognition for pioneering long-distance flights. Engaged in the quest to establish transpolar air routes, advancing logistical capabilities for the Soviet military during the 1930s.

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Meredith Willson

Playwright and composer of The Music Man
Born
May 18th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1984 40 years ago — 82 years old

A composer and playwright created the Broadway musical The Music Man, which premiered in 1957. The show followed a con man named Harold Hill who posed as a band leader in a small Iowa town. Willson also wrote the successful musical-notes for several other works, including The Unsinkable Molly Brown. His background in music, as a conductor and musician, greatly influenced his creative output and compositional style. Willson's contributions to the arts have been recognized through numerous awards including Tony Awards for his work. His legacy continues through the enduring popularity of The Music Man, which remains a staple in theater productions worldwide.

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Marcel Breuer

Architect, designed Ameritrust Tower
Born
May 21st, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Hungary, an architect and academic became a significant figure in modern architecture. Breuer studied at the Bauhaus and later taught there before emigrating to the United States. He gained recognition for innovative furniture designs, particularly the Wassily Chair, which highlighted modernist aesthetics. Breuer designed several notable structures, including the UNESCO building in Paris and the St. John's Abbey in Minnesota. The Ameritrust Tower in Cleveland stands as a testament to his architectural vision.

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