What Happened This Year 1904

Born in 1904

Forrest Mars Sr.

Businessman and creator of M&M's
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1999 26 years ago — 95 years old

A significant figure in the confectionery industry, established a successful partnership with the Hershey Chocolate Company. Developed the chocolate-covered candies known as M&M's during World War II, which became a favorite snack for soldiers and civilians alike. Launched the Mars chocolate bar, solidifying a legacy in American sweets and creating a brand that remains iconic today. Contributed to the growth of the Mars, Incorporated company, which expanded into other food products and pet care over the decades.

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Bruce Goff

Architect known for Boston Avenue Church
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1982 43 years ago — 78 years old

An architect focused on organic architecture, emphasizing harmony between structures and their environments. Designed several notable buildings including the Boston Avenue Methodist Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Contributed to architectural education as a professor and established Goff's unique design philosophy that favored creativity and individuality over traditional forms. Played a significant role in the development of mid-20th-century architecture in the United States.

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Jean Paul Lemieux

Canadian painter and educator
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1990 34 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent painter and educator, contributions to the Canadian art scene included landscapes and depictions of winter scenes. His work often portrayed the interplay of light and shadow, showcasing a unique style that blended realism with abstraction. Lemieux's artistic journey culminated in significant exhibitions across Canada and internationally, establishing him as a notable figure in the art community. Through teaching roles at various institutions, Lemieux influenced many aspiring artists, fostering creativity and technical skills among students.

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Soeman Hs

Indonesian author and educator
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1999 26 years ago — 95 years old

An influential Indonesian author and educator who contributed significantly to Indonesian literature and education. Engaged in literary pursuits, wrote various novels and essays exploring themes of social issues and nationalism. Active in promoting literature and education reforms in Indonesia, and played a key role in developing a national literary identity. Recognized for dedication to fostering understanding and appreciation of Indonesian culture through written works.

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Carleton S. Coon

American anthropologist and academic
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1981 44 years ago — 77 years old

This individual served as a prominent anthropologist and academic, specializing in human evolution and race. Contributions to the field included extensive research on human origins and the classification of human species, outlined in works such as 'The Origin of Races'. This person also taught at several institutions, influencing the study of anthropology through both teaching and research. Engagement in public discourse on anthropology highlighted the complexities of human diversity.

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Viktor Brack

German physician and war criminal
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1948 77 years ago — 44 years old

Served as a physician during World War II and held a notable role in the implementation of the euthanasia program in Nazi Germany. Actively participated in the T4 program aimed at the killing of individuals deemed 'life unworthy of life'. Arrested after the war, faced trial for war crimes and was executed in 1948.

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Raymond Bailey

Actor in television series and films
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1980 45 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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Jatindra Nath Das

Indian activist for independence
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1929 96 years ago — 25 years old

Participated in the Indian independence movement as an activist. Engaged in protests against British colonial rule and was a member of the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association. Arrested numerous times, highlighting the cause for India's freedom. Died while on hunger strike in prison, drawing attention to the struggle for independence.

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Isamu Kosugi

Japanese actor and director
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1983 42 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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