What Happened This Year 1904

Born in 1904

Joseph Valachi

American gangster and mob informant
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1971 54 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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Song Qiyun

Communist activist and insurgent leader
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1949 75 years ago — 45 years old

An activist emerged as a prominent figure in the communist movement within China. This individual played a significant role in organizing labor and peasant uprisings, promoting revolutionary ideas to challenge the prevailing socio-political order. Active in the late 1940s, involvement included mobilizing support for the Communist Party during a tumultuous period in Chinese history. The commitment to the movement led to detention and eventual execution by authorities, marking a pivotal moment in the narrative of resistance against oppressive regimes.

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Art Hodes

Pianist and composer, jazz musician
Born
1904 121 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1993 32 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent figure in the realm of jazz, contributed significantly to the genre as both a pianist and composer. Played a role in the development of Chicago-style jazz and gained recognition during the 1930s. Recorded numerous albums, showcasing original compositions and traditional jazz standards. Collaborated with various renowned musicians and was integral in the jazz scene of the mid-20th century.

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