What Happened This Year 1903

Born in 1903

Ain-Ervin Mere

Estonian SS officer during WWII
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1969 56 years ago — 66 years old

Served as an officer in the German SS during World War II. Participated in military operations on the Eastern Front. Involved in the administration of repressive measures in occupied territories. After the war, remained a controversial figure due to association with the Nazi regime.

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Dora Stratou

Greek dancer and choreographer
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1988 37 years ago — 85 years old

Stratou founded the Dora Stratou Theatre in Athens, dedicated to traditional Greek dance. This venue has served as a platform for showcasing Greek folklore and dance culture. As a choreographer, she revitalized traditional dance forms and contributed significantly to their preservation. Stratou's work emphasized the importance of cultural heritage in the arts, making dance accessible to broader audiences through performances and educational initiatives.

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Jacoba van Velde

Dutch author of literary works
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1985 39 years ago — 82 years old

An author who contributed significantly to Dutch literature, with a focus on personal and societal themes. Van Velde wrote several notable works during her career. The writing style often combined elements of realism with evocative character studies. In addition to literary fiction, engaged in writing essays that explored cultural and social issues of her time. The works featured an introspective approach to the complexities of human relationships and societal norms. Recognition in literary circles followed, underscoring her contributions to Dutch culture.

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Takiji Kobayashi

Japanese writer of proletarian literature
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1933 92 years ago — 30 years old

A significant figure in Japanese literature, this writer focused on social issues and the lives of workers during the early 20th century. His notable works include the novel 'Kani Kōsen', which illustrated the struggles of a crab factory worker and critiqued the conditions of the working class. This writer was associated with the proletarian literature movement, aiming to raise awareness of social inequality in Japan. The impact of the work extended beyond literature, contributing to the discourse surrounding labor rights and class struggles in pre-war Japan.

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Gregory Goodwin Pincus

Biologist, co-created the birth-control pill
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1967 57 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent biologist and academic contributed significantly to reproductive biology. Co-developed the oral contraceptive pill in collaboration with Margaret Sanger and John Rock, which played a crucial role in women's health and family planning. Established the Pincus Method, a pioneering approach in the study of reproductive hormones. Pincus also held academic positions at institutions such as Harvard University and Boston University, focusing on the intersection of biology and medicine.

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Georges-Henri Lévesque

Priest and sociologist from Canada
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2000 25 years ago — 97 years old

A Canadian-Dominican priest and sociologist contributed significantly to the field of sociology in Canada and the Caribbean. Over a career spanning several decades, focused on linking sociological theory with practical applications in social justice and community development. Worked extensively in education and published works examining social issues. Became the first trained sociologist in Canada, advocating for sociological education and its relevance to social change. Established research programs and encouraged the integration of sociology into Canadian universities.

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Jyoti Prasad Agarwala

Indian poet, playwright, and director
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1951 74 years ago — 48 years old

A significant figure in Indian literature, contributed extensively to Assamese literature through poetry, plays, and movies. His works often depicted the cultural and social landscapes of Assam. Played a pivotal role in establishing Assamese cinema and wrote the first Assamese feature film, 'Joymoti', which was released in 1935. Involved in the Indian freedom movement, his writings reflected the spirit of the time and aimed at cultural renaissance in Assam.

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Otto P. Weyland

American General and military leader
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1979 45 years ago — 76 years old

This general served in the United States Army and held various command positions during key conflicts. Significant contributions occurred during World War II, notably in the air campaign against Japan. Led the Allied forces in the Pacific Theater, overseeing major operations and strategies. His leadership played a critical role in advancing military objectives, particularly during the liberation of the Philippines. After the war, continued to serve in various military roles, shaping post-war military policy until retirement.

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Ludwik Starski

Polish screenwriter and songwriter
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
February 29th, 1984 41 years ago — 81 years old

A prolific screenwriter and songwriter, contributed significantly to Polish cinema and music. Wrote screenplays for several popular films and created memorable songs that shaped the cultural landscape. Collaborated with prominent directors and artists, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry. In the post-war period, involved in various projects that highlighted Polish life and society through art.

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