What Happened This Year 1902

Born in 1902

Hans von Dohnányi

German jurist and political dissident
Born
January 1st, 1902 123 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1945 79 years ago — 43 years old

Born in 1902, contributed to German law as a prominent jurist and opposed the Nazi regime. Engaged in resistance activities against totalitarianism during World War II, becoming involved with a conspiracy to assassinate Adolf Hitler. Worked in coordination with military officials and other dissidents. Arrested in 1943 by the Gestapo, imprisoned, and executed for his resistance efforts.

Continue Reading

Dan Keating

Irish Republican Army volunteer
Born
January 2nd, 1902 123 years ago
Died
2007 18 years ago — 105 years old

Born in 1902, served as a volunteer in the Irish Republican Army during the Irish War of Independence. Participated in significant operations aimed at securing Ireland's independence from British rule. Engaged in various roles within the organization, contributing to efforts during critical conflicts such as the Civil War and the larger struggle for Irish freedom.

Continue Reading

John A. McCone

6th Director of Central Intelligence
Born
January 4th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1991 34 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the 6th Director of Central Intelligence from 1961 to 1965 during a critical period of the Cold War. Prior to this role, held positions such as chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and president of the Bechtel Corporation. Contributed to significant intelligence operations and policy developments affecting national security. Played a notable role in the Cuban Missile Crisis, overseeing intelligence assessments that shaped U.S. responses to the Soviet Union's actions.

Continue Reading

Stella Gibbons

English journalist and author of Cold Comfort Farm
Born
January 5th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1989 35 years ago — 87 years old

An English journalist and author, Gibbons gained prominence with the publication of the novel 'Cold Comfort Farm' in 1932. The book combines elements of satire and comedy, addressing and critiquing the romanticized views of rural life in earlier literature. Following this success, Gibbons authored numerous novels, short stories, and works of poetry, showcasing her literary talents. She worked as a journalist, contributing to various publications throughout her career, further solidifying her position within the literary world. Gibbons's distinctive style and wit left a lasting legacy, influencing subsequent generations of writers.

Continue Reading

Hubert Beuve-Méry

French journalist and newspaper founder
Born
January 5th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
1989 36 years ago — 87 years old

Established a significant career in journalism, playing a crucial role in the development of newspaper publishing in France. Founded the prestigious newspaper Le Monde in 1944, which became a leading source of news and analysis in the country. Advocated for journalistic integrity and independence throughout his career, facing challenges in the political landscape of post-war France.

Continue Reading

Carl Rogers

Psychologist and development of client-centered therapy
Born
January 8th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1987 38 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent psychologist who contributed significantly to the field of psychology, particularly through the development of client-centered therapy. This approach emphasized the importance of personal growth and self-actualization. Rogers also authored numerous influential books, including 'On Becoming a Person' and 'A Way of Being', which elaborated on his theories regarding humanistic psychology. He founded the Center for Studies of the Person in La Jolla, California, focusing on innovative therapeutic practices. His work has been instrumental in shaping modern psychology and counseling.

Continue Reading

Josemaría Escrivá

Spanish priest and founder of Opus Dei
Born
January 9th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1975 49 years ago — 73 years old

A Spanish priest founded Opus Dei, an institution of the Catholic Church aimed at promoting a lay spirituality. Escrivá emphasized the importance of sanctifying ordinary work and integrated spiritual practice into daily life. Ordained in 1925, he soon established the organization in 1928. Through writings such as 'The Way,' he advocated for personal holiness and the role of laity in the Church. Escrivá's efforts extended across various countries, influencing countless people. In 2002, he was canonized by Pope John Paul II, highlighting his significant influence on contemporary Catholic spirituality.

Continue Reading

Maurice Duruflé

French organist and composer, Requiem
Born
January 11th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1986 38 years ago — 84 years old

An organist and composer, contributed significantly to liturgical and choral music. Served as a professor at the Paris Conservatoire, mentoring many students. Produced several compositions, including 'Requiem', which gained widespread acclaim for its rich harmonies and orchestral textures. Worked as an organist in various French churches, showcasing the organ's capabilities through both compositions and performances. His music often reflects a deep understanding of liturgy and a mastery of the organ.

Continue Reading

Karl Menger

Mathematician and member of the Vienna Circle
Born
January 13th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1985 39 years ago — 83 years old

Austrian-American mathematician contributed significantly to mathematical logic, topology, and geometry. Menger was a prominent member of the Vienna Circle, a group known for its scientific philosophy and promotion of logical positivism. He developed the Menger theorem and worked on the foundations of geometry and decision theory. Menger also held academic positions at several institutions including the University of Chicago, influencing future generations of mathematicians through his research and teaching.

Continue Reading