What Happened This Year 1903

Born in 1903

Joseph Cornell

American sculptor and director of box sculptures
Born
December 24th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1972 52 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent American sculptor and filmmaker, focused on creating intricate box constructions and collages. Developed a unique artistic style that combined found objects, imagery, and poetic narratives. Directed several experimental films that explored themes of memory and nostalgia. His works often reflected an interest in childhood, dreams, and the passage of time, leading to a distinctive contribution to the field of assemblage art. Influenced by Surrealism, Cornell's pieces invite viewers to engage with the narratives he constructed.

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Ava Helen Pauling

American humanitarian and activist
Born
December 24th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1903, a notable humanitarian and activist focused on nuclear disarmament and peace advocacy. Worked alongside husband Linus Pauling to promote international peace and disarmament efforts. Joined various organizations, including the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, advocating for social justice and civil rights. Engaged in campaigns against nuclear testing and contributed to the establishment of the World Peace Movement.

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Ernst Krenkel

Geographer and Arctic Explorer
Born
December 24th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1971 53 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1903, contributions to Arctic exploration included leadership in significant expeditions. Explored Siberia and the Arctic Ocean, conducting scientific research and mapping uncharted territories. Participated in Soviet scientific missions and became a prominent figure in polar exploration. Development of geographical education and promotion of scientific understanding in exploration launched overseas expeditions and contributed to geopolitical knowledge.

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Elisha Cook Jr.

American actor in classic films
Born
December 26th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1995 29 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1903, an American actor, the career spanned several decades from the 1930s to the 1990s. Frequently cast in character roles, gained recognition for performances in film noir. Featured prominently in influential films such as 'The Maltese Falcon', 'Shane', and 'The Great Race'. Played various supporting roles that showcased a range of emotions, from menacing to comedic. Made appearances on television series during the 1950s and 1960s, contributing to a broad legacy in the entertainment industry.

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Earl Hines

Pianist and bandleader in jazz music
Born
December 28th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 1983 41 years ago — 79 years old

An influential American jazz pianist and bandleader, recognized for innovative approaches to jazz piano. Played a pivotal role in the development of the Chicago-style jazz sound during the early 20th century. Led one of the first African American big bands and recorded numerous works that shaped the evolution of jazz music. Collaborated with notable musicians and participated in various recordings that garnered significant acclaim.

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John von Neumann

Mathematician and physicist, game theory
Born
December 28th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1957 68 years ago — 53 years old

A Hungarian-American mathematician and physicist, contributions spanned various fields, including mathematics, physics, computer science, and economics. Developed game theory, providing a framework for analyzing competitive situations. Contributed to the creation of the first electronic computer, ENIAC, and advanced the field of quantum mechanics. Helped develop the Manhattan Project during World War II, which led to the atomic bomb. Worked on several mathematical theories, including functional analysis and set theory.

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Candido Portinari

Brazilian painter and social commentary artist
Born
December 29th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent Brazilian painter, active primarily during the 20th century. Developed a unique style that reflected Brazilian culture and social issues. Created large murals and paintings that documented the lives of the Brazilian people, particularly the underprivileged. His work often featured themes of social justice and struggles in rural communities. Awarded the Silver Medal at the 1942 São Paulo Art Biennial and became the first Brazilian to win a prize at the Venice Biennale in 1948. Portinari's contributions to modern art in Brazil have been recognized widely.

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William Heynes

English engineer, notable for innovations
Born
December 31st, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1989 36 years ago — 86 years old

An engineer contributed significantly to the automotive industry, notably with the development of the 2.5-litre engine for the Jaguar XK120. This work established a benchmark for performance in sports cars during the 1950s. Contributions extended to advancements in various automobile designs, reflecting a focus on innovation and engineering excellence. Held several key roles and influenced numerous engineering projects throughout the automotive field.

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Maxie Rosenbloom

American boxer and world champion
Born
November 1st, 1907 117 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1976 49 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent figure in professional boxing, achieved significant success in the light heavyweight division during the 1930s and 1940s. Became the World Light Heavyweight Champion in 1934 and held the title until 1938, successfully defending it multiple times. Renowned for a unique fighting style that combined speed and agility, contributing to a long career in the ring. After retiring from boxing, transitioned to a career in entertainment, making appearances in films and television.

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