What Happened This Year 1904

Born in 1904

Peter Lorre

American actor in suspense films
Born
June 26th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1964 60 years ago — 59 years old

An actor celebrated for performances in the suspense and horror genres. Gained prominence in the early 1930s with the film 'M' directed by Fritz Lang. Became a recognized figure in Hollywood after his roles in 'Casablanca' and 'The Maltese Falcon'. Developed a distinctive on-screen presence characterized by his expressive facial features and unique voice.

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René Lacoste

Tennis Player and Polo Shirt Inventor
Born
July 2nd, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent figure in tennis during the 1920s, excelled as a player and contributed to the sport with innovative techniques. Secured seven Grand Slam singles titles, including three French Championships and two Wimbledon titles. Transitioned into business, creating the iconic polo shirt and founding a successful clothing brand, which became synonymous with quality and style. This venture established a legacy blending sports and fashion.

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Angela Baddeley

English actress known for her theatre work
Born
July 4th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1976 49 years ago — 71 years old

An actress in British theatre and film, noted for performances in both mediums. Achievements included significant roles in works such as 'The King and I' and 'Fanny by Gaslight'. Gained recognition for portraying characters with depth, thus securing a lasting place in the theatrical community. Also featured in films, including 'The Last Resort' and 'The Way Ahead'.

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Ernst Mayr

Biologist and ornithologist
Born
July 5th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 2005 20 years ago — 100 years old

A prominent figure in the field of evolutionary biology and ornithology, this individual contributed significantly to systematics and species concepts. Authored several influential works, including 'Systematics and the Origin of Species,' which shaped modern taxonomy. Served as a professor at Harvard University and engaged in extensive studies of tropical birds during field research in the Caribbean and South America. Played a vital role in enhancing the understanding of speciation processes.

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Harold Acton

English scholar and author known for literary works
Born
July 5th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1994 31 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1904, a significant figure in English literature, contributed essays, novels, and poetry over a long career. Worked in various literary circles and wrote extensively on art and literature. Authored several books including 'The Forloned', 'The Last Retreat', and biographies of notable figures. Acton lived in Italy for many years, which influenced writing style and subject matter.

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Milburn Stone

American actor in 'Gunsmoke'
Born
July 5th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1980 44 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1904, an American actor gained prominence through a long career in film and television. Played the character Doc Adams on the television series 'Gunsmoke', which aired for 20 years from 1955 to 1975. Participated in various films during the 1940s and 1950s, contributing to the entertainment industry with his work. Received acclaim for performance on stage and television during a prolific career.

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Erik Wickberg

Swedish General of The Salvation Army
Born
July 6th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 92 years old

Served as the 9th General of The Salvation Army from 1963 to 1969. Played a significant role in the organization’s international leadership, promoting its mission of salvation and social service. Oversaw various humanitarian initiatives and expanded the Army’s outreach programs during tenure. Advocated for community support and social action aligned with the Church's values.

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Simone Beck

French chef and author of Mastering...
Born
July 7th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1991 33 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent French chef and culinary author, focused on French cuisine. Co-authored the influential cookbook 'Mastering the Art of French Cooking' alongside Julia Child. Played a significant role in introducing French cuisine to American audiences through teaching and writing. Established a cooking school in Paris, sharing knowledge and techniques with aspiring chefs and home cooks alike.

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Henri Cartan

Mathematician who contributed to topology
Born
July 8th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
August 13th, 2008 16 years ago — 104 years old

Born in 1904, a French mathematician engaged in the field of topology and algebraic topology. Worked at various institutions, including the Institut Henri Poincaré and the Université de Paris. Contributed to the development of sheaf theory and cohomology, influencing the study of complex analysis and algebraic geometry. Made significant advancements in the theory of homotopy and played a pivotal role in the establishment of modern topology. Actively participated in academic communities, promoting mathematics in France and internationally until passing in 2008.

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