What Happened This Year 1907

Born in 1907

Yves Allégret

French film director and screenwriter
Born
October 13th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1987 38 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent figure in French cinema, directed films during the 1940s to 1960s. Contributed significantly to the post-war film movement and was a key part of the French New Wave. Established a distinct style blending realism with narrative innovation. Collaborated with notable actors, creating works that explored complex human emotions and societal issues.

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Kinue Hitomi

Japanese sprinter and long jumper
Born
January 1st, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 24 years old

Competed in athletics, specializing in sprinting and long jumping. Achieved significant success at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, winning a bronze medal in the 800 meters. Also set multiple national records during her athletic career and became one of Japan's first female Olympic medalists. Participated in various national competitions and contributed to the development of women's athletics in Japan.

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Ray Milland

Actor and director, All About Eve
Born
January 3rd, 1907 118 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1986 39 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Wales, a career in film began in the 1920s in silent films. Transitioned to sound and gained recognition in the 1940s. Starred in a variety of genres, including drama and comedy. Achieved critical acclaim for performance in 'The Lost Weekend', earning an Academy Award for Best Actor. Became a regular face in Hollywood, directing several films and continuing to act into the 1970s. Also appeared on television, showcasing versatility across different platforms.

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Volmari Iso-Hollo

Finnish Olympic steeplechaser
Born
January 5th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1969 55 years ago — 62 years old

Achieved success as a steeplechase runner, competing in the 3000 meters steeplechase. Won a gold medal at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, marking a significant athletic accomplishment. Set multiple European records in the event throughout the 1930s, establishing a reputation as a leading competitor in long-distance running events. Competed for the Finnish national team, contributing to the country's prominence in athletics during this era.

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Gordon Kidd Teal

Engineer and inventor of the transistor
Born
January 10th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
2003 22 years ago — 96 years old

Played a significant role in the development of the transistor while working at Bell Labs. Contributed to advancements in materials science and semiconductor technology. Specialized in the production and application of gallium arsenide, impacting various electronic devices. Held several patents related to semiconductor devices throughout a career that extended over several decades.

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Abraham Joshua Heschel

Theologian and philosopher of religion
Born
January 11th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 65 years old

Born in Poland and later relocating to the United States, a prominent rabbi, theologian, and philosopher engaged with the themes of religion, mysticism, and social justice. Contributions to Jewish thought included the integration of spirituality and action, particularly in relation to civil rights. Collaborated with leaders in the civil rights movement and emphasized the importance of active participation in societal issues. Writings, including 'The Prophets' and 'God in Search of Man,' explored the nature of faith and the human experience of the divine.

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Pierre Mendès France

French politician and Prime Minister
Born
January 11th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1982 42 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the 142nd Prime Minister of France from 1954 to 1955. As a member of the Radical-Socialist Party, played a significant role in post-World War II French politics. Advocated for decolonization and negotiated the end of the Indochina War, leading to the Geneva Accords in 1954. Focused on social reforms and economic stability during tenure.

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Sergei Korolev

Soviet rocket engineer and spacecraft designer
Born
January 12th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1966 59 years ago — 59 years old

An influential figure in the early stages of space exploration, an engineer and designer played a key role in the development of the Soviet space program. Established as Head Designer of the Soviet Union's first satellite, Sputnik 1, which was launched in 1957, marking the start of the space age. Led the design of the Vostok spacecraft used for the first human spaceflight by Yuri Gagarin in 1961. Instrumental in advancing rocket technology and satellite design during the Cold War era, contributing significantly to various missions that laid the groundwork for future exploration.

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Georges-Émile Lapalme

Canadian lawyer and politician
Born
January 14th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 78 years old

A Canadian lawyer and politician who served as a member of the National Assembly of Quebec. Played a significant role in the development of the Quebec Liberal Party, holding various cabinet positions. Contributed to legal reforms and was involved in numerous political campaigns, advocating for progressive policies in Quebec.

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