What Happened This Year 1904

Born in 1904

Jean Aurenche

French screenwriter of classic films
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1992 32 years ago — 88 years old

A screenwriter contributed to the French film industry, particularly during the mid-20th century. Collaborated with various directors, including the notable partnership with Louis Malle. Worked on films that received critical acclaim and commercial success, combining engaging narratives with rich character development. Influenced the art of screenwriting in France.

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Benny Binion

American poker player and casino owner
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1989 35 years ago — 85 years old

Played a significant role in the development of Las Vegas as a gambling destination. Founded the Horseshoe Casino in Las Vegas, which became influential in the poker community. Established the World Series of Poker in 1970, which popularized the game and transformed it into a major competitive sport. Contributed to the growth of poker through innovations in tournament structures.

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Sergey Biryuzov

Soviet Union Marshal and military leader
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1964 60 years ago — 60 years old

Biryuzov served as a high-ranking military officer in the Soviet Union. His career in the Red Army culminated in the rank of Marshal of the Soviet Union. Active during World War II, he held various commands in key battles and contributed to the overall strategy of the Red Army's operations. Post-war, he continued to lead significant military reforms and played a vital role in the development of Soviet military doctrine. His leadership was characterized by his involvement in various military establishments and educational institutions.

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Joseph Valachi

American gangster and mob informant
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1971 53 years ago — 67 years old

Involved in organized crime, a significant figure in the Genovese crime family. Valachi became the first mobster to publicly acknowledge the existence of the Mafia in the United States. Testified before the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Investigations in 1963, detailing the inner workings of organized crime and consolidating Mafia operations. His revelations contributed to public awareness of the Mafia's influence on American society.

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Tatsuo Hori

Japanese author and poet of modern literature
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1953 71 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent Japanese author and poet, contributed significantly to modern literature in Japan. Lived during a tumultuous period in Japanese history, with works reflecting deep emotional and psychological insights. Best recognized for poignant poetry and elegant prose that explored themes of nature, love, and loss. His literary career gained traction in the early 20th century with notable publications. After his passing in 1953, his works continued to be studied and appreciated, influencing subsequent generations of writers.

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Isamu Kosugi

Japanese actor and director
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1983 41 years ago — 79 years old

An actor and director contributed significantly to Japanese theater and film. Best recognized for roles in the films "The Lower Depths" and "The Ballad of Narayama," also served as a director for various theatrical productions. Involved in the early development of modern Japanese cinema and participated in many renowned performances.

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Nikolay Kuznetsov

Soviet naval officer & admiral
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1974 50 years ago — 70 years old

A Soviet naval officer played a significant role during World War II and the Cold War. As the Commander of the Soviet Navy from 1956 to 1967, oversaw the development of naval strategy amid increasing military tensions. Contributed to the expansion of submarine forces to counter U.S. naval capabilities and was involved in significant naval operations. Played a crucial role in shaping maritime defense policies.

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Raymond Bailey

Actor in television series and films
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1980 44 years ago — 76 years old

An American actor and soldier, gained prominence through television and film roles during the mid-20th century. Best remembered for the role of Milton Armitage in the series 'The Beverly Hillbillies,' which aired from 1962 to 1971. Also appeared in other television shows and films, showcasing a range of performances throughout an active career. Additionally served in the military, contributing to his character development on screen. His contributions to the entertainment industry are recognized through various roles that reflected the era's cultural landscape.

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Antoni Dobrowolski

Polish educator and historian
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
October 21st, 2012 12 years ago — 108 years old

An educator with a focus on history and cultural studies, contributed significantly to the field of education in Poland. Authored numerous works on the history of Poland, particularly regarding the 20th century. Involved in various educational reforms and initiatives that aimed to enhance the quality of teaching and learning in the country. Played a vital role in preserving Polish cultural heritage through education.

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