What Happened This Year 1903

Born in 1903

Big Bill Broonzy

Blues singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
June 26th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 55 years old

A significant figure in the development of the Chicago blues sound. Began performing as an acoustic guitarist and singer in the 1920s. Gained prominence in the 1930s with numerous recordings and performances. Transitioned to electric guitar in the 1940s, influencing the genre's evolution. Collaborated with various artists and contributed to the folk music revival in the 1960s. His songs have been covered by numerous musicians across different genres.

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Alan Blumlein

English engineer and audio pioneer
Born
June 29th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1942 82 years ago — 38 years old

An English engineer contributed significantly to the development of modern sound recording and reproduction technologies. Blumlein invented stereo recording and binaural sound, transforming the auditory experience in music and film. His work laid the groundwork for the future of sound engineering. He held numerous patents in audio technology. Tragically, his life was cut short during World War II.

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Beatrix Lehmann

English actress in stage and film
Born
July 1st, 1903 121 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1979 45 years ago — 76 years old

An English actress gained recognition for performances in theatre and film. Career spanned several decades, with significant work in plays and classic movies. Notably involved in England's theatrical scene, showcasing abilities in both comedic and dramatic roles. Featured in the film 'The Innocents' and had a prominent career in productions at The Old Vic.

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Amy Johnson

Pilot and aviation pioneer
Born
July 1st, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 38 years old

Accomplished pilot and aviation pioneer set numerous records in long-distance flying during the 1930s. Johnson gained fame by flying solo from England to Australia in 1930, completing the journey in 19 days. She participated in various air races and expeditions, showcasing her skill and determination in the male-dominated field of aviation. Her contributions to flying and her adventurous spirit inspired many in the aviation industry. Johnson's life was tragically cut short during World War II when her plane crashed while on a mission.

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Olav V of Norway

King of Norway, Olympic sailor
Born
July 2nd, 1903 121 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1991 34 years ago — 87 years old

Became King of Norway in 1957 and reigned until death in 1991. Served in the Norwegian Army during World War II and became a symbol of national unity. Participated in sailing competitions and won a gold medal in the 1928 Summer Olympics in Amsterdam. Worked to modernize the Norwegian monarchy and was known for being approachable and down-to-earth. Engaged in numerous charitable causes and emphasized the importance of social welfare.

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Alec Douglas-Home

Politician and 66th UK Prime Minister
Born
July 2nd, 1903 121 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1995 29 years ago — 92 years old

Held the position of Prime Minister from 1963 to 1964. Served as a member of Parliament for over 30 years. Began political career in the House of Lords before transitioning to the House of Commons. Also served in various cabinet positions, including Foreign Secretary. After leaving office, remained active in politics and public service.

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Ace Bailey

Ice hockey player and coach
Born
July 3rd, 1903 121 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1992 32 years ago — 88 years old

Played professional ice hockey in the National Hockey League (NHL) primarily with the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Boston Bruins. Contributed to the Bruins' 1929 Stanley Cup championship victory. Transitioned to coaching after his playing career, imparting knowledge to younger players. Played a significant role in the development of the sport in Canada.

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Flor Peeters

Belgian organist and composer
Born
July 4th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1986 38 years ago — 83 years old

An accomplished organist, composer, and educator from Belgium. Peeters studied at several prestigious institutions, including the Royal Conservatory in Brussels. His work spanned various musical styles, with a focus on liturgical compositions and organ music. Peeters served as a professor at the Lemmens Institute in Leuven, where he influenced many future musicians. He also held the position of organist at St. Rumbold's Cathedral in Mechelen. His contributions to hymnology and organ music are notable, and he left behind a significant catalog of works.

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Hugo Theorell

Swedish biochemist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
July 6th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1982 42 years ago — 79 years old

A biochemist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of enzyme activity. Conducted pioneering research on the enzyme catalase, demonstrating its role in the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide. Served as a professor at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, influencing a generation of researchers. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1955 for work on enzymes.

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