What Happened This Year 1902

Born in 1902

Eddy Hamel

American footballer, colorful team player
Born
October 21st, 1902 122 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1943 81 years ago — 40 years old

A footballer achieved fame playing as a forward. Played for the New York Giants in the National Football League. Contributed to the team during the 1930s. Competed in the 1934 NFL Championship Game. Served in World War II and was tragically killed in action.

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Luther Evans

Political scientist and politician
Born
October 23rd, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1902, a prominent figure in American political science and politics. Served as the director of the United States National Library Services. Contributed significantly to the field of library science and education policy. Played a key role in advocating for public access to information and library services during a transformative period in American history. Engaged in the development and promotion of initiatives aimed at improving library access for all citizens.

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Henry Steele Commager

Historian and author of influential works
Born
October 25th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 96 years old

An American historian and author significantly contributed to the understanding of American history and issues related to civil liberties. Commager's academic career included teaching at Columbia University and the University of Massachusetts. He authored numerous books, including 'The American Mind' and 'Documentary History of the United States', which explored American identity and culture. He served as an editor and wrote extensively on the Constitution and civil rights. His work influenced both scholarship and public discourse on historical topics.

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Eddie Lang

Jazz guitarist, prominent in the 1920s
Born
October 25th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1933 92 years ago — 31 years old

A prominent American jazz guitarist, contributed to the development of guitar in jazz during the 1920s and 1930s. Worked with leading figures in jazz, including Louis Armstrong and Bing Crosby. Played an influential role in popularizing the guitar as a solo instrument in jazz music. Involved in numerous recording sessions and was a key figure in the early days of the genre.

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Carlo Gnocchi

Italian priest and educator, writer
Born
October 25th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1956 69 years ago — 54 years old

Born in Italy in 1902, engaged in education and religious duties. Served as a chaplain during World War II, providing solace to wounded soldiers. Founded the 'Casa di Ricovero' for war orphans and disabled children, emphasizing the importance of faith and education. Authored several works reflecting on morality, faith, and the importance of childhood development.

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Beryl Markham

Horse trainer and author; 'West with the Night'
Born
October 26th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Kenya, achieved recognition as a pioneering horse trainer and aviator. Markham became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic from east to west in 1936. Her autobiography, 'West with the Night,' published in 1942, received critical acclaim for its vivid descriptions of life in colonial Kenya and her adventures as a pilot. In addition to her writing and aviation achievements, she trained racehorses, including the notable horse, *The Colonel*. Her contributions to both literature and aviation make her a significant figure in early 20th-century history.

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Henrietta Hill Swope

American astronomer and academic
Born
October 26th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1980 44 years ago — 78 years old

An accomplished astronomer, significant contributions were made to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of the structure and dynamics of galaxies. Served as a professor at several universities and was active in promoting education in astronomy. Played a crucial role in establishing research programs that advanced the understanding of stellar populations and galaxy formation. In 1960, her work earned recognition and respect within the astronomical community.

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Jack Sharkey

Professional boxer and referee
Born
October 26th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1994 30 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1902, this individual became a prominent heavyweight boxing champion in the 1920s and 1930s. Claiming the World Heavyweight title in 1932, significant bouts included matches against Max Schmeling and Jim Braddock. Transitioning to a career as a referee, the individual oversaw numerous high-profile boxing matches, bringing extensive experience to the role. Retirement from boxing did not diminish involvement in the sport.

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Elsa Lanchester

Actress in 'Bride of Frankenstein'
Born
October 28th, 1902 122 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1986 38 years ago — 84 years old

Active in film and theater, this English-American actress and singer gained recognition for her role as the Bride in 'Bride of Frankenstein'. Her career spanned several decades, featuring appearances in both films and Broadway productions. Lanchester's unique persona and distinctive voice contributed to her success in various musical and dramatic roles, demonstrating versatility throughout her performances. She also lent her talents to voice acting, contributing to animated features, thereby broadening her artistic reach.

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