What Happened This Year 1903

Born in 1903

Jan Tinbergen

Economist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 12th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1994 30 years ago — 91 years old

An economist and academic made significant contributions to the field of economics. Played a key role in the development of econometrics, which applies statistical methods to economic data. Awarded the first Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1969 for contributions to the development of econometric models and economic dynamics. Served as a professor of economics at the Netherlands School of Economics and engaged in economic policy discussions.

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Ruth Svedberg

Swedish discus thrower and triathlete
Born
April 14th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
2002 23 years ago — 99 years old

Competed in discus throw and triathlon, participating in the 1924 Summer Olympics. Achieved national records in discus throw and earned multiple championships in Sweden. Focused on both athletics and triathlon throughout career, representing Sweden in various international competitions.

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Paul Waner

Baseball player; 1935 NL MVP
Born
April 16th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 62 years old

A professional baseball player and manager, celebrated for achievements in Major League Baseball. Played primarily as an outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Won the National League Most Valuable Player Award in 1935. Accumulated over 3,000 hits during a notable career spanning from 1926 to 1945. Continued influence in baseball as a manager and coach post-retirement.

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Morgan Taylor

American hurdler and coach
Born
April 17th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1975 50 years ago — 71 years old

Achieved success as a hurdler during the early 20th century, competing primarily in the 110-meter hurdles. Secured multiple national titles and represented the United States in international competitions. Transitioned to coaching after athletic career, mentoring young athletes and contributing to the sport through education and training. Helped develop future generations of track and field competitors, enhancing techniques and competitive strategies.

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Gregor Piatigorsky

Cellist and influential music educator
Born
April 17th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1976 48 years ago — 73 years old

Born in Ukraine, a prominent cellist and educator emerged as a significant figure in the classical music world. Studied under renowned musicians and later became a soloist with major orchestras, including the London Philharmonic and the New York Philharmonic. Piatigorsky held teaching positions at prestigious institutions like the University of California, Los Angeles, and the Curtis Institute of Music. His performances included notable concertos and chamber music, showcasing a remarkable technique and deep musicality. Contributed to the evolution of cello playing through teaching and repertoire expansion.

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Nicolas Nabokov

Composer known for 'The Bandit' opera
Born
April 17th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 75 years old

A Russian-American composer and educator, this individual was influential in 20th-century music. Birth occurred in Russia, with significant development in both Europe and the United States. Contributions included operas, orchestral works, and chamber music. Teaching roles took place at prestigious institutions, imparting knowledge to future generations. The opera 'The Bandit', composed in the 1950s, gained critical attention and showcased unique musical elements. Collaborated with various artists and institutions in promoting contemporary music.

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Eliot Ness

Law enforcement agent and Prohibition agent
Born
April 19th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1957 67 years ago — 54 years old

Served in law enforcement during the Prohibition era and gained fame as the leader of the Untouchables, a special unit tasked with enforcing prohibition laws in Chicago. Targeted the notorious gangster Al Capone and played a significant role in his conviction for tax evasion. Later became Public Safety Director of Cleveland, where significant reforms were implemented in the police department and city safety policies. Authored an autobiography detailing experiences and obstacles faced in combating organized crime.

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Luis Saslavsky

Argentinian film director and producer
Born
April 21st, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent figure in Argentine cinema, this individual directed a series of successful films during the mid-20th century. The career spanned various roles including direction, production, and screenwriting. Contributions included working in the genres of drama and comedy, with a focus on the Argentine culture. Several films garnered attention and recognition, contributing to the development of the national film industry.

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Guy Simonds

English-Canadian general in WWII
Born
April 23rd, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 71 years old

Served as a senior officer in the Canadian Army during World War II. Participated in various operations including the invasion of Sicily and the Italian Campaign. Commanded the 1st Canadian Corps and later the Canadian contingent during the liberation of the Netherlands. After the war, held several influential positions within the military and contributed to defense policy discussions. Post-military career involved roles in the National Defence Headquarters and various advisory capacities.

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