What Happened This Year 1904

Born in 1904

Ripper Collins

Baseball player and coach
Born
March 30th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 66 years old

Played major league baseball primarily as a first baseman from 1926 to 1938, representing teams such as the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, and Philadelphia Phillies. Transitioned into coaching following playing career and contributed to the development of players and teams at various levels. Achieved a .291 batting average over his career and earned selection for the All-Star Game in 1936. Continued to influence the sport through coaching and mentorship.

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Russel Wright

Furniture designer and industrial designer
Born
April 3rd, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1904, this American furniture designer made significant contributions to modern furniture design. The designer was a proponent of the American Modern movement, emphasizing functional design that complemented everyday living. The work showcased simplicity and elegance, appealing to a wide audience. The designer created popular lines such as American Modern dinnerware and furniture that integrated colors and forms suited to modern lifestyles. Responsibilities included founding a design studio that produced innovative home furnishings that were both practical and aesthetically pleasing.

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Iron Eyes Cody

Actor and stuntman of Native American roles
Born
April 3rd, 1904 120 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1999 26 years ago — 94 years old

An actor and stuntman, contributed significantly to the portrayal of Native American characters in film and television. Gained recognition for performances in classic Westerns. Starred in the 1972 anti-littering public service announcement, which became iconic. Featured in various films throughout the 1940s to the 1990s, embodying the Native American experience and advocating for cultural representation.

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Sally Rand

Dancer with unique fan dance performances
Born
April 3rd, 1904 120 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1979 45 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1904, a celebrated American dancer gained fame during the 1920s for her distinctive fan dance. Her performances often incorporated large feather fans, captivating audiences with elaborate stagecraft and choreography. Rand became a prominent figure in the cabaret scene and gained further notoriety at the 1933 World's Fair in Chicago, where she performed her alluring dance amidst a backdrop of various attractions. Over the years, her performances transcended mere entertainment; they influenced the evolving landscape of American dance and theater. Throughout her career, numerous stage appearances showcased her integration of theatricality and sensuality, helping to define a new era for dance entertainment.

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Richard Eberhart

American poet and academic, 'Selected Poems'
Born
April 5th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 101 years old

A significant figure in American poetry and academic circles, contributions included teaching at various universities, particularly at Dartmouth College. The work often explored themes of faith and existence. Also published several collections, including 'Selected Poems', which showcased an engaging use of language and philosophical inquiry. Served as the Poet Laureate of the United States in 1965, providing a voice for contemporary poetry and fostering appreciation for the art form.

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Kurt Georg Kiesinger

German Chancellor during the 1960s
Born
April 6th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1988 37 years ago — 83 years old

Served as Chancellor of Germany from 1966 to 1969. Led a Grand Coalition between the Christian Democratic Union and the Social Democratic Party. Was a prominent member of the Christian Democratic Union during a pivotal time in German politics. Pursued policies focused on economic growth and stabilization, navigating complex Cold War dynamics.

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Erwin Komenda

Austrian Car Designer of Porsche 356
Born
April 6th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1996 28 years ago — 92 years old

An Austrian car designer and engineer contributed significantly to automotive design. Played a crucial role in the development of the Porsche 356, which became one of the most iconic sports cars of the 20th century. Worked at the Porsche company where innovative design techniques were implemented, influencing modern automotive aesthetics. Involved in various projects that advanced automotive engineering and design principles, showcasing a blend of form and function.

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John Hicks

Economist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 8th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1989 35 years ago — 85 years old

An English economist and academic, had a significant influence in the fields of welfare economics and general equilibrium theory. Contributed to the development of the IS-LM model, which describes the relationship between interest rates and real output. Authored important works, including 'Value and Capital', which examined the concepts of demand and supply. Received the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences in 1972 for contributions to the analysis of demand and supply. His theories continue to be referenced in economic literature and education.

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Sharkey Bonano

American jazz trumpeter and bandleader
Born
April 9th, 1904 120 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 68 years old

An influential figure in the New Orleans jazz scene. Played trumpet and served as a bandleader in various ensembles. Promoted the traditional jazz sound through performances and recordings from the 1920s to the 1960s. Known for lively performances that showcased both original compositions and classic standards.

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