What Happened This Year 1903

Born in 1903

Sadegh Hedayat

Iranian-French author and translator
Born
February 17th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 48 years old

An influential Iranian author and translator, this individual is recognized for contributions to Persian literature. The most notable work includes the novel "Blind Owl," which explores themes of existentialism and despair. The author's literary career also involved translating works from French to Persian, enriching the cultural dialogue between the two languages and countries. Considered a pivotal figure in modern Persian literature, the individual faced significant personal struggles, leading to a tragic end to his life in Paris.

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Joaquín Rodríguez Ortega

Spanish bullfighter, Cagancho
Born
February 17th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1984 41 years ago — 80 years old

Cagancho was a prominent figure in the world of bullfighting. He became celebrated for his unique style and technical prowess in the ring. His performances captivated audiences across Spain, elevating the art of bullfighting to new heights during the early to mid-20th century. Cagancho fought in numerous plazas and was critically acclaimed within the bullfighting community. He developed a reputation not only for his skill but also for his charisma and theatrical flair, making him a cultural icon of his time.

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Nikolai Podgorny

Ukrainian engineer and politician
Born
February 18th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1983 42 years ago — 79 years old

An engineer and politician served in significant roles in Soviet Ukraine. Played an essential part in the Soviet leadership hierarchy during the 1960s and 1970s. Held the position of Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet from 1965 to 1977, which was a key post within the Soviet governmental structure, influencing various policies and initiatives.

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Anaïs Nin

Essayist and memoirist acclaimed for diaries
Born
February 21st, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1977 48 years ago — 73 years old

Born in France and later moving to the United States, this writer became recognized for a body of work that primarily includes diaries and personal essays. The early diaries, which started in her youth, spanned several decades and provided intimate insights into her life and the lives of others. These writings reflect her relationships with notable figures of the time such as Henry Miller and, through them, she explored themes of love, sexuality, and creativity. The published collections have continued to be influential in literary circles and feminist discourse.

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Raymond Queneau

French poet and author of 'Exercises in Style'
Born
February 21st, 1903 122 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1976 48 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1903, a French poet and author significantly contributed to literature, particularly through experimentation with language and form. The most acclaimed work is 'Exercises in Style', which showcases 99 variations of a simple narrative. Associated with the literary group Oulipo, involved in using mathematical structures to create literature. Also wrote novels, poems, and essays, exploring themes of everyday life and relationships. Queneau's innovative style influenced various writers and he held positions in literary and academic circles throughout his career.

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Frank P. Ramsey

Mathematician and economist; Ramsey's theorem
Born
February 22nd, 1903 122 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1930 95 years ago — 26 years old

Contributions spanned mathematics, philosophy, and economics. Developed Ramsey theory, essential in combinatorial mathematics. Published influential papers on subjective probability and decision theory. Served as a lecturer at the University of Cambridge, where work in mathematical logic and philosophy garnered attention. In economics, introduced ideas that would later influence modern economic theories.

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Vladimir Bartol

Italian-Slovene author and playwright
Born
February 24th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1967 57 years ago — 64 years old

An author and playwright engaged with themes of identity and culture. Worked primarily in the Slovenian language, contributing significantly to 20th-century literature. Most recognized for the novel 'Alamut,' which explores ideas of power and manipulation through the narrative of a historical figure, Hassan-i Sabbah. This work has been influential in literary and philosophical circles, provoking discussions related to political ideologies and the nature of belief.

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King Clancy

Ice hockey player and referee, Stanley Cup
Born
February 25th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 83 years old

This individual achieved prominence as a professional ice hockey player, referee, and coach. Playing primarily as a defenseman, contributions to the Ottawa Senators during the 1920s and 1930s resulted in winning the Stanley Cup in 1927. Transitioning from player to referee, officiated multiple games in the National Hockey League, showcasing a commitment to the sport in various capacities. Later served as a coach, influencing many players and teams in the league.

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Orde Wingate

English general and military leader
Born
February 26th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1944 80 years ago — 41 years old

This military leader served in the British Army during World War II. Wingate gained prominence through unconventional tactics and strategies, particularly in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. He played a crucial role in the Burma Campaign, where he developed the Chindit operations, which involved long-range penetration missions behind enemy lines. His leadership style emphasized mobility and surprise, influencing modern guerrilla warfare. Although controversial, his approaches contributed to the success of Allied forces in certain theatres of the war. Wingate was killed in action in 1944 during a reconnaissance mission in Burma.

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