What Happened This Year 1910

Born in 1910

Alexander Bonnyman Jr.

Lieutenant, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
May 2nd, 1910 114 years ago
Died
1943 82 years ago — 33 years old

Served as a lieutenant in the United States Navy during World War II. Participated in the Battle of Tarawa in November 1943, a pivotal battle in the Pacific Theater. Demonstrated extraordinary bravery by leading a charge to secure enemy positions while under heavy fire. Died in action but posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for valor shown on the battlefield.

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Edmund Bacon

Urban Planner and Educator
Born
May 2nd, 1910 114 years ago
Died
2005 20 years ago — 95 years old

An American urban planner, architect, and educator, played a significant role in shaping modern urban environments. Served as the Executive Director of the Philadelphia City Planning Commission from 1949 to 1964. Developed plans for major areas in Philadelphia, including Society Hill, which transformed the neighborhood into a model of urban renewal. Authored several influential books on urban planning and architecture, emphasizing the importance of community-oriented design and integration of public spaces. Contributed to architectural education through teaching positions at various institutions.

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Norman Corwin

Screenwriter and producer of radio plays
Born
May 3rd, 1910 114 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 101 years old

An influential figure in American radio, produced and wrote numerous plays that addressed social issues and human experiences. Gained prominence during the Golden Age of Radio, particularly for work in the 1940s. Received accolades for contributions to the arts, including an Emmy Award, and was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame. Pioneered innovative storytelling techniques through a range of broadcasts and documentaries.

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Leo Lionni

Children's author and illustrator
Born
May 5th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1999 25 years ago — 89 years old

An American author and illustrator created numerous children's books, blending storytelling with unique artistic styles. Significant works include 'Frederick', which tells the story of a field mouse who collects words instead of food, and 'Inch by Inch', focusing on a little inchworm that measures different animals. Lionni's vibrant collages and philosophical themes have influenced children's literature. His contributions earned the American Library Association's Caldecott Honor multiple times, solidifying a place in children's literary history.

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Mary Lou Williams

American jazz pianist and composer
Born
May 8th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1981 43 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in jazz music, contributed significantly to the development of various jazz styles. Williams performed with notable musicians including Duke Ellington and Benny Goodman. She composed a wide range of pieces, including sacred music and big band scores. Williams also played a pivotal role in mentoring younger musicians, helping to shape the next generation of jazz artists. Throughout her career, she worked to elevate the genre and bridge the gap between traditional jazz and its modern forms.

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Dorothy Hodgkin

Biochemist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 12th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1994 30 years ago — 84 years old

A biochemist and crystallographer, this individual developed techniques for X-ray crystallography. With a focus on complex organic molecules, significant contributions included the structure of penicillin and vitamin B12, leading to recognition in the scientific community. The pioneering work paved the way for advancements in the field of chemistry and medicine. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1964 for contributions to structural analysis using X-ray methods.

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Johan Ferrier

Surinamese politician and educator
Born
May 12th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
January 4th, 2010 15 years ago — 99 years old

An educator and politician served as the first President of Suriname from 1975 to 1980. Played a crucial role in the transition of Suriname from Dutch colonial rule to independence. Established educational reforms and promoted literacy initiatives during his time in office. After a military coup in 1980, went into exile and returned later to continue his contributions to Surinamese society.

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Ne Win

Burmese Army General and President
Born
May 14th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2002 22 years ago — 92 years old

Served as an army general and politician, leading Burma as its fourth president. Assumed control of the country through a military coup in 1962, instituting a one-party socialist state. Focused on nationalization and central planning, implementing policies that significantly altered the economy. Remained a dominant figure in Burmese politics until stepping down in 1988. His regime faced criticism for human rights violations and suppression of dissent.

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Constance Cummings

American actress in British cinema
Born
May 15th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 2005 19 years ago — 95 years old

Born in 1910, an American actress who worked primarily in British film and television. Gained prominence in the 1930s and 1940s with performances in various films, including 'The Ghost Train' and 'The Last Days of Pompeii.' Featured in notable stage productions, showcasing talents both in film and theater. Transitioned to television, contributing to multiple series and miniseries throughout her career. Received recognition for her work in the entertainment industry until her retirement.

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