What Happened This Year 1903

Born in 1903

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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Azizul Haq

Bengali Islamic scholar and educator
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1961 64 years ago — 58 years old

Contributions to Islamic scholarship in Bengal. Focused on religious education and reform. Promoted the study of classical Islamic texts and the Arabic language. Engaged in various educational endeavors aimed at improving access to knowledge within the Muslim community in Bengal. Played a critical role in the establishment of educational institutions that provided Islamic learning based on a modern approach.

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Alvin R. Dyer

American religious leader and author
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1977 48 years ago — 74 years old

Contributed significantly to leadership within a religious organization. Served as a prominent leader in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Focused on community building and spiritual instruction. Authored various works that reflect the teachings and values of the faith. Actively engaged in initiatives that promoted fellowship and service.

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Yisrael Kristal

Supercentenarian Holocaust survivor
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
August 11th, 2017 7 years ago — 114 years old

Born in Poland, one of the oldest Holocaust survivors who survived the atrocities of World War II. Relocated to Israel after the war and lived to the age of 113 years. His longevity drew attention and he was recognized as the world's oldest man in March 2016. Kristal's life story offered insights into the experiences of survival during the Holocaust and its aftermath.

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Grace Stafford

American actress and voice performer
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1992 33 years ago — 89 years old

An American actress gained recognition for contributions to film and television during the mid-20th century. Often lent voice to various characters, particularly known for voicing the character of Woody Woodpecker in animated series and films. In addition to voice work, appeared in several live-action roles throughout the 1940s and 1950s. Continued to influence animation and voice acting, providing a distinctive and memorable sound that resonated with audiences. Work included collaborations with multiple studios, showcasing versatility in performance styles.

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Alan Macnaughton

Canadian politician and House Speaker
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1999 25 years ago — 96 years old

A prominent figure in Canadian politics, served as a member of the House of Commons representing the Liberal Party. Held the position of Speaker of the House of Commons from 1963 to 1965, facilitating discussions and maintaining order during parliamentary sessions. Played a significant role in legislative processes and government operations during a transformative period in Canada. Contributed to various committees and advocated for numerous policies that shaped the political landscape.

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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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Francis J. McCormick

American football and basketball coach
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1958 66 years ago — 55 years old

Played college football and basketball at the University of Notre Dame, later serving as a head coach for both sports. In football, coached the Notre Dame Fighting Irish to a successful tenure, while in basketball, led the team during the early years of its program. Contributions to both sports at the collegiate level were significant, helping to shape the athletic programs.

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Léon-Étienne Duval

French cardinal with Vatican prominence
Born
1903 122 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1996 28 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a significant figure in the Catholic Church, particularly in France. Held the position of Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Lille from 1945 to 1981. Participated in the Second Vatican Council, contributing to important discussions about modernizing the Church. Worked on various social and charitable initiatives throughout the French community, fostering engagement between the Church and society.

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