What Happened This Year 1907

Born in 1907

Trường Chinh

Vietnamese politician, 4th President
Born
February 9th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 4th President of Vietnam from 1987 to 1991. Played a vital role in the country's communist movement and governance. Contributed to the development of Vietnam's policy and was involved in the reforms that shaped the country in the late 20th century. Active in the Vietnam War, participating in various leadership roles within the communist party and the government.

Continue Reading

Dit Clapper

Ice hockey player and coach
Born
February 9th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 71 years old

Played professional ice hockey primarily for the Boston Bruins in the National Hockey League (NHL). Participated in the NHL for 20 seasons from 1927 to 1947, and contributed as a defenseman. Served as the head coach for the Bruins after retirement. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1975, recognizing a successful playing and coaching career.

Continue Reading

Harold Scott MacDonald Coxeter

Mathematician and geometry scholar
Born
February 9th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
March 31st, 2003 22 years ago — 96 years old

Contributions included work in geometry, particularly in the study of polytopes and tessellations. Published numerous influential papers and books on mathematical topics, establishing significant theories in geometry. Served as a professor at the University of Toronto and the University of Oxford, mentoring many students and researchers in the field. Recognized for advancing mathematical education and research, and received several accolades throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Anthony Cottrell

Rugby player with All Blacks stint
Born
February 10th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 81 years old

Participated in rugby union, representing New Zealand's national team, the All Blacks. Played as a forward during the 1930s, contributing to the sport's rich history. Gained recognition for skillful play and dedication to the game. His career included significant matches that highlighted New Zealand's rugby prowess.

Continue Reading

Joseph Kearns

Actor in 'Leave It to Beaver'
Born
February 12th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1962 63 years ago — 55 years old

An American actor gained prominence through a memorable role as the father, Steve, in the television series 'Leave It to Beaver', which aired from 1957 to 1963. Kearns began his career in radio and transitioned to television, appearing in various shows during the early years of the medium. His performance in 'Leave It to Beaver' is often regarded as iconic, representing the quintessential American father figure. Kearns's career was cut short when he passed away in 1962, yet his legacy endures through the continued popularity of the show, influencing perceptions of family life in American culture.

Continue Reading

Johnny Longden

Jockey and horse racing trainer
Born
February 14th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
February 14th, 2003 22 years ago — 96 years old

Born in England, a successful jockey moved to the United States, where a prolific career in horse racing developed. Achieved significant success during the mid-20th century, becoming one of the most celebrated jockeys in the history of the sport. Won the prestigious Kentucky Derby three times, riding the horses Count Turf, Hill Gail, and Lucky Debonair. Transitioned to a training role after retiring from riding, contributing to the development of future racing talents. His dedication to the sport solidified a lasting legacy in horse racing history.

Continue Reading

Jean Langlais

French organist and composer of liturgical music
Born
February 15th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1991 34 years ago — 84 years old

Career spanned from the mid-20th century, focusing on organ music and sacred compositions. Studied at the Paris Conservatory, where expertise in organ performance and composition developed. Served as organist at various churches, including the Church of Saint-Denis in Paris. Contributed significantly to liturgical music with works that incorporated contemporary styles while maintaining traditional roots. Worked with a variety of instruments, showcasing a unique blend of modern and classical elements in compositions.

Continue Reading

Cesar Romero

American actor best known as Joker
Born
February 15th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1994 31 years ago — 86 years old

An American actor gained recognition for his roles in film and television. Romero portrayed the Joker in the television series 'Batman' from 1966 to 1968, bringing a unique portrayal of the iconic villain. He appeared in multiple films during the Golden Age of Hollywood and became well-known for his work in productions such as 'The Mark of Zorro' and 'The Bat Whispers'. In addition to acting, Romero was also a skilled dancer and made guest appearances on numerous variety shows throughout his career. His charisma and distinctive look helped solidify his legacy as a memorable character actor.

Continue Reading

W. H. Auden

Poet and playwright of the 20th century
Born
February 21st, 1907 118 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1973 51 years ago — 66 years old

Auden emerged as a prominent figure in 20th-century literature, contributing significantly to poetry and drama. His works explored themes of love, politics, and human existence. Auden's poetry reflects modernist influences and complex emotional depth. He received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1948 for the collection 'The Age of Anxiety,' which also received critical acclaim as a landmark work. Auden's collaboration with composer Benjamin Britten on operas and vocal works further showcased his versatility. His literary career spanned several decades, leaving a lasting impact on the literary world.

Continue Reading