What Happened This Year 1902

Born in 1902

Elizabeth Gray Vining

American author and librarian
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1999 25 years ago — 97 years old

An author and librarian, dedicated to children's literature and education. Vining wrote over twenty books, contributing significantly to literature for young readers. Her most notable work includes 'Adam of the Road', which received the Newbery Honor in 1943. As a librarian, she worked to improve library services for children, emphasizing the importance of accessible reading materials.

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Léon M'ba

Gabonese politician, 1st President of Gabon
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1967 57 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the first President of Gabon from 1960 until 1967. Played a pivotal role in Gabon's independence from French colonial rule. Held a prominent position in Gabonese politics and was influential in shaping the country's early governance. Implemented policies that aimed at national development and economic progress. His leadership marked the foundation of Gabon's political landscape in the years following independence.

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Bidu Sayão

Brazilian-American soprano singer
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1999 26 years ago — 97 years old

Soprano singer performed in opera houses across Europe and North America. Gained acclaim for performances at the Metropolitan Opera in roles such as Violetta in 'La Traviata' and Liu in 'Turandot'. Featured in recordings of Brazilian songs and worked with prominent conductors, showcasing a versatile vocal range. Contributed to the appreciation of Brazilian classical music, with a focus on popularizing it internationally.

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Hans Biebow

German SS officer during WWII
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1947 77 years ago — 45 years old

Served as an SS officer during World War II. Involved in various administrative and operational roles within the Nazi regime. Managed the Jewish ghetto in Łódź, Poland, overseeing deportations and the implementation of Nazi policies concerning the Jewish population. Played a significant role in the administration of forced labor and exploitation of ghetto inhabitants until the dissolution of the ghetto.

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Anton Holban

Romanian author and educator, wrote 'Don Juan'
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1937 88 years ago — 35 years old

An influential Romanian author, theoretician, and educator contributed significantly to literature and pedagogy. Authored several notable works, including the novel 'Don Juan'. Engaged in literary criticism and theoretical discourse, promoting modernist ideas in Romanian literature. Served as an educator, shaping the curriculum and engaging in various academic pursuits. Worked in several educational institutions, emphasizing the importance of literature in education.

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Sylvanus Olympio

President of Togo
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1963 62 years ago — 61 years old

A Togolese businessman and politician, served as the first President of Togo from 1960 until his assassination in 1963. Olympio was instrumental in leading Togo to independence from French colonial rule. His administration focused on economic development and infrastructural modernization.

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W. Clement Stone

Businessman and author of Success System
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2002 22 years ago — 100 years old

A businessman, philanthropist, and author, contributed significantly to the field of personal development and success principles. Founded the Combined Insurance Company of America in 1919. Authored several books, including "Success Through a Positive Mental Attitude," which emphasized optimism and goal-setting. Played a role in the establishment of the Stone Foundation, which supported various charitable endeavors. Helped promote ideas of self-motivation and personal achievement.

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Gladys Aylward

English missionary and humanitarian
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1970 55 years ago — 68 years old

Became a missionary in China and founded an inn for travelers on the 1,800-mile journey between Yangcheng and Lintung. Provided care for orphans and aided in the evacuation of children during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Wrote an autobiography, 'The Small Woman', detailing her experiences. Returned to England after 1949 and continued her humanitarian work.

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Carlo Levi

Italian painter and author, most famous for "Christ Stopped at Eboli"
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1975 50 years ago — 73 years old

An influential Italian painter, author, and activist, contributed significantly to the cultural landscape of 20th century Italy. Created notable artworks that often reflected social and political themes. Wrote the autobiographical work "Christ Stopped at Eboli," detailing experiences in a remote village while in exile under Mussolini's regime. Engaged in the anti-fascist movement and played a role in post-war Italian politics. Recognized for combining art and literature to address pressing social issues.

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