What Happened This Year 1902

Born in 1902

Julian Steward

Cultural Anthropologist and Ecologist
Born
January 31st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1972 53 years ago — 70 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of anthropology through the development of the concept of cultural ecology. Focused on the relationship between culture and environment, emphasizing how environmental factors shape human behavior and social organization. Conducted extensive fieldwork in the Great Basin and among various Native American tribes. Authored influential works, including 'Theory of Culture Change: The Methodology of Cultural Ecology', outlining a framework for understanding cultural adaptation. Helped establish the subfield of ecological anthropology as a distinct area of study.

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Tallulah Bankhead

American actress and stage performer
Born
January 31st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
December 12th, 1968 56 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1902, this American actress gained fame for her robust personality and undeniable talent on stage and screen. A prominent figure during the 1920s and 1930s, she achieved critical acclaim for her performances in various theatrical productions, especially in the Broadway play 'The Little Foxes.' Transitioning to film, she starred in notable movies such as 'Lifeboat' directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Her career spanned several decades, marked by her unique voice and captivating presence. Additionally, she became known for her witty and often controversial remarks, establishing a distinct persona both on and off the stage.

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Alva Myrdal

Sociologist, Nobel Peace Prize laureate
Born
January 31st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1986 39 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Sweden, a significant figure in sociology and politics, contributed to the fields of disarmament and peace research. Served as a member of the Swedish parliament and held positions in various international organizations. Played a key role in advocating for nuclear disarmament and was involved in the United Nations. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1982 for her work in nuclear disarmament.

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Therese Brandl

German concentration camp guard
Born
February 1st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 45 years old

Born in 1902, served as a guard at several concentration camps during World War II. Worked primarily at Auschwitz, overseeing the treatment of prisoners. Involvement in the atrocities committed in the camps is a significant aspect of historical studies regarding the Holocaust and the roles of women in the Nazi regime.

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Langston Hughes

American poet and playwright of Harlem Renaissance
Born
February 1st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1967 57 years ago — 65 years old

Contributed significantly to the literary movement known as the Harlem Renaissance during the early 20th century. Emphasized themes of African American identity, culture, and social justice. Gained prominence with poems that celebrated the lives and struggles of African Americans, including works such as 'The Weary Blues' and 'Montage of a Dream Deferred'. Wrote plays, essays, and novels exploring similar themes. Helped bridge the gap between African American cultural expression and mainstream American literature.

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John Tonkin

Politician and Premier of Western Australia
Born
February 2nd, 1902 123 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1995 29 years ago — 93 years old

A significant political figure in Australia, served as the 20th Premier of Western Australia from 1971 to 1974. Advocated for various policies during the 1970s, focusing on education, health, and infrastructure development. His tenure included efforts to promote the state's resources and economy. Played a pivotal role in shaping modern Western Australia through legislative reforms and public service initiatives.

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Newbold Morris

American lawyer and politician
Born
February 2nd, 1902 123 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1966 58 years ago — 64 years old

Practiced law in New York City and served as a Democratic politician. Played a significant role in urban development and served on the New York City Planning Commission. Contributed to civil rights legislation and environmental policy initiatives during his political career. Elected to several positions including president of the New York City Board of Estimate.

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Hartley Shawcross

Attorney General and politician
Born
February 4th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
July 10th, 2003 21 years ago — 101 years old

Baron Shawcross served as Attorney General for England and Wales from 1945 to 1951. He played a significant role in the Nuremberg Trials as the chief British prosecutor, arguing against war crimes committed by the Nazis. He was also a member of the Labour Party, serving as a Member of Parliament for several terms. Throughout his career, he contributed to the legal landscape in the UK and was involved in various legal reforms. His work at the Nuremberg Trials is particularly notable for its historical significance and impact on international law.

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Charles Lindbergh

Aviator and first solo nonstop transatlantic flight
Born
February 4th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1974 50 years ago — 72 years old

Transatlantic aviator and explorer completed the first solo nonstop flight across the Atlantic Ocean. The historic flight took place on May 20-21, 1927, in the Spirit of St. Louis, traveling from New York City to Paris. This achievement significantly advanced the field of aviation and captured the world's imagination. Lindbergh became an international celebrity, receiving numerous accolades for the accomplishment. Later, he contributed to various aviation advancements and engaged in humanitarian efforts.

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