What Happened This Year 1903

Born in 1903

Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay

Social reformer and freedom fighter
Born
April 3rd, 1903 121 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1988 36 years ago — 85 years old

A social reformer and freedom fighter, this individual played a pivotal role in India's struggle for independence. Involved with the Indian National Congress, participation in various movements for social justice emphasized women's empowerment and craft revival. Established the All India Women’s Conference in 1931, advocating for women's rights and education. Efforts in promoting handicrafts led to the establishment of the National Handicrafts and Handloom Museum, focusing on preserving traditional arts. Contributions to the Indian independence movement included promoting the Quit India Movement in 1942, highlighting civil disobedience.

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Marion Aye

American actress in silent films
Born
April 5th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 48 years old

Active during the silent film era, this actress appeared in a number of popular films in the 1920s. Gained recognition for her roles in 'The Five o'clock Girl' and 'The Honeymoon Express'. Transitioned to sound films but eventually moved away from acting. Contributed to the entertainment industry during a transformative period.

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Harold Eugene Edgerton

Engineer and pioneer in high-speed photography
Born
April 6th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1990 35 years ago — 86 years old

Contributions to the field of electrical engineering included advancements in high-speed photography and stroboscopic lighting. Developed the electronic flash that allowed freezing moments of time in photography, significantly aiding both scientific research and artistic expression. Founded the company Edgerton, Germeshausen, and Grier, which provided innovative solutions in engineering and technology. Served as a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, where research included the study of motion in sports and nature.

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Mickey Cochrane

Baseball player and manager with Athletics
Born
April 6th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1962 62 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent figure in Major League Baseball, contributed both as a player and manager. Played as a catcher and was part of the Philadelphia Athletics team that won the American League pennant and the World Series in 1929 and 1930. Transitioned to a managerial role, leading the Detroit Tigers to a pennant in 1940. His playing career was marked by exceptional batting and defensive skills, earning a place in the Baseball Hall of Fame.

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Edwin T. Layton

Admiral and intelligence officer
Born
April 7th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1984 40 years ago — 81 years old

Born on April 7, 1903, an American admiral and intelligence officer served in the United States Navy during World War II. This individual provided critical intelligence analysis during the Pacific Theatre, particularly noted for insights leading to the success at the Battle of Midway. Career spanned various naval command positions and culminated in serving as the director of the Office of Naval Intelligence. Retired after a distinguished service, established a reputation for strategic and analytic capabilities.

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M. Balasundaram

Sri Lankan lawyer and politician
Born
April 7th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1965 59 years ago — 62 years old

Contributed significantly to Sri Lanka's political landscape and legal framework during the mid-20th century. Engaged in various political movements advocating for civil rights and legal reform. Played a prominent role in the country's legislative processes and served in key political positions. Actively participated in the struggle for governance and representation in Sri Lankan society.

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Ward Bond

Film and television actor, The John Wayne Gang
Born
April 9th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1960 64 years ago — 57 years old

Bond appeared in numerous films and television shows during a career spanning over three decades. A notable presence in westerns and war films, significant roles included participation in classics such as 'It's a Wonderful Life' and 'The Grapes of Wrath'. Bond starred as the captain in the influential television series 'Wagon Train', which aired from 1957 to 1965. His collaborations with prominent directors and actors established him as a recognizable figure in American cinema.

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Clare Turlay Newberry

American author and illustrator of children's books
Born
April 10th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1970 55 years ago — 66 years old

Acclaimed as an author and illustrator, focused on children's literature. Created engaging stories and illustrations that resonated with young audiences. Worked on picture books that emphasized themes of exploration and friendship. Made a significant contribution to children's literature through distinct artistic style and narrative voice.

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Misuzu Kaneko

Japanese poet and children's literature
Born
April 11th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1930 95 years ago — 27 years old

A prominent Japanese poet, created numerous works primarily for children. Writings reflect a deep connection to nature and human emotions, capturing the innocence and experiences of childhood. Gained recognition posthumously, with collections published in various anthologies. Influenced by the natural world, traditional Japanese culture, and personal experiences, poetry resonates with both children and adults. Her contributions to Japanese literature are celebrated, with her poems translated into multiple languages.

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