What Happened This Year 1914

Born in 1914

Jiang Qing

Chinese revolutionary and actress
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1991 33 years ago — 77 years old

Acted in several revolutionary operas and plays and became a prominent political figure during the Cultural Revolution in China. Served as the fourth wife of Mao Zedong, actively involved in the politics of the era and known for her role in the Gang of Four, which played a key part in the Chinese government's direction. After Mao's death, faced scrutiny and imprisonment due to political shifts and eventual disbandment of the Gang of Four.

Continue Reading

Princess Durru Shehvar of the Ottoman Empire

Last Ottoman princess with historical prominence
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
February 7th, 2006 19 years ago — 92 years old

Born into the Ottoman royal family, this individual spent most of her life in exile following the abolition of the sultanate in 1922. She resided in France and later settled in Turkey. Active in several charitable organizations, she contributed to cultural preservation and women's rights initiatives. Her lineage was part of a once-powerful dynasty that ruled over large parts of Southeast Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. After her father's death, she became one of the last representatives of the Ottoman dynasty, participating in various community events and maintaining ties with royal circles. Throughout her life, she upheld the traditions of the imperial family while engaging in public life in Turkey and beyond.

Continue Reading

Henri Langlois

French film historian and archivist
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1977 48 years ago — 63 years old

Co-founded the Cinémathèque Française, a pioneering film archive and cultural institution in Paris. Played a vital role in the appreciation and preservation of film history. Organized numerous screenings and retrospectives that showcased important works in cinema. Contributed significantly to the establishment of film as an art form.

Continue Reading

Wayne Morris

American actor in 'Casablanca'
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1959 65 years ago — 45 years old

An actor, singer, and producer, recognized primarily for performances in films during the 1940s. Appeared in the classic movie 'Casablanca' as Captain Frank H. L. McLeod. Also featured in other films such as 'Pride of the Marines' and 'The Adventures of Robin Hood'. Alongside acting, engaged in music and produced various projects. His versatile career spanned multiple roles, contributing to the entertainment industry until his passing.

Continue Reading

Kirill Mazurov

Belarusian Soviet politician and leader
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1989 35 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent Belarusian Soviet politician who held various significant roles within the government. Served as the First Secretary of the Communist Party of Belarus from 1965 to 1983, implementing policies that shaped the political landscape of the republic. Additionally, held the position of Deputy Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the Soviet Union, contributing to economic and administrative matters across the Soviet states. After retirement, remained influential in political circles until his passing in 1989.

Continue Reading

Gil Elvgren

Illustrator known for pin-up art
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
February 29th, 1980 45 years ago — 66 years old

Elvgren was an American painter and illustrator recognized for contributions to pin-up art during the mid-20th century. His artworks featured glamorous women in playful and suggestive poses, becoming integral to American visual culture. Elvgren's style combined realism with a sense of humor, showcasing his mastery in color, composition, and character design. The artist created iconic depictions that were widely used in advertisements and calendars, solidifying his legacy in the genre.

Continue Reading

Ron Dellow

Footballer and manager with Brentford
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
November 7th, 2013 11 years ago — 99 years old

Played as a defender for Brentford in the 1940s and 1950s, making significant contributions to the team's performance during that era. Transitioned into management, taking charge of several clubs. Also worked as a scout, identifying talent for clubs in the Football League. His managerial career included a focus on developing young players and imparting tactical knowledge.

Continue Reading

Sally Hoyt Spofford

Ornithologist and bird conservationist
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
October 26th, 2002 22 years ago — 88 years old

Significant contributions to ornithology included extensive research on bird migration patterns and avian behavior. Authored and co-authored numerous articles and publications in scientific journals. Active in bird conservation initiatives throughout her career. Held a position in the Audubon Society, promoting bird protection and education.

Continue Reading

Ralph M. Holman

American lawyer and judge
Born
1914 111 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2013 11 years ago — 99 years old

Served as a federal judge for the United States District Court for the Western District of Washington. Appointed by President Richard Nixon in 1970, held the position until taking senior status in 1986. Contributed to various significant legal decisions and opinions during his tenure in federal court, shaping interpretations of law in the region. Engaged in the legal community through mentoring and support of local bar associations until retirement.

Continue Reading