What Happened This Year 1920

People Who Died in 1920

Simon-Napoléon Parent

Canadian politician, 12th Premier of Quebec
Born
September 12th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1920 104 years ago — 64 years old

A Canadian lawyer and politician served as the 12th Premier of Quebec from 1900 to 1904. Parent played a significant role in shaping the province's political landscape during his tenure. Prior to his premiership, he held various parliamentary roles and was involved in local governance. His administration focused on modernizing Quebec's infrastructure and improving education systems. After leaving office, continued engagement in Canadian politics and law was evident.

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Yu Gwansun

Korean Independence Activist
Born
1902 123 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1920 104 years ago — 18 years old

Actively participated in the March 1st Movement for Korean independence in 1919. Involved in organizing protests against Japanese colonial rule and was arrested for activism. While imprisoned, continued to advocate for independence and inspired others. Died in prison in 1920 due to torture and poor conditions.

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Max Bruch

Composer known for 'Violin Concerto No. 1'
Born
January 6th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1920 104 years ago — 82 years old

A German composer and conductor, significant contributions to orchestral and chamber music occurred during the 19th century. Studied at the Cologne Conservatory, developed a passion for both classical and romantic styles. Achieved recognition following the premiere of 'Violin Concerto No. 1 in G minor, Op. 26'. Conducted various orchestras throughout Germany and also engaged in educational activities, teaching numerous students and influencing future generations of musicians. Composed several operas, choral works, and other notable pieces, establishing a prominent place in the romantic music repertoire.

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Michael Fitzgerald

Irish republican on hunger strike
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1920 104 years ago — 39 years old

Involved in the Irish War of Independence, participated in the struggle for Irish independence from British rule. Joined the Irish Republican Army and was arrested during the 1920 campaign. Engaged in a hunger strike to protest his detention. Died on October 17, 1920, in a British prison, which garnered attention to the Irish republican movement and the treatment of political prisoners.

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Terence MacSwiney

Irish Republican politician and hunger striker
Born
March 28th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1920 104 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent Irish republican politician, served as Lord Mayor of Cork. Engaged in political activism against British rule in Ireland and became an important figure during the struggle for Irish independence. Imprisoned in 1920, led a hunger strike to protest against British policies. His death from starvation garnered international attention and highlighted the plight of Irish republicans. His ideals and the manner of his death influenced the movement towards Irish self-governance.

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Alexander of Greece

King of Greece, World War I leader
Born
August 1st, 1893 131 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1920 104 years ago — 27 years old

Alexander served as the King of Greece from 1917 until his death in 1920. His reign was marked by Greece's involvement in World War I, initially aligning with the Allies. He played a pivotal role in the re-establishment of the Greek monarchy following a period of political instability. In 1919, Greece conducted a military campaign during the Greco-Turkish War, seeking to expand its territory in Asia Minor. His leadership during this tumultuous period underscored the complexities of Greek politics and national aspirations. Alexander succumbed to illness, leading to a succession crisis within the Greek royal family.

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Joe Murphy

Irish-American hunger striker
Born
May 10th, 1895 129 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1920 104 years ago — 25 years old

Born in 1895, Joe Murphy became involved in the Irish struggle for independence. In the early 1920s, participated in the Cork hunger strike as a protest against British rule in Ireland. This hunger strike was a pivotal moment during the Irish Civil War, highlighting the desperation of prisoners and the ongoing conflict. Murphy's death during the strike drew attention to the harsh conditions faced by political prisoners and the broader issues of the Irish independence movement.

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Alphonse Desjardins

Canadian businessman and co-founder
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1920 104 years ago — 66 years old

Co-founded the first credit union in North America, facilitating accessible financial services for workers. Established the movement that spread cooperative banking across Canada. Promoted financial education and community development, influencing numerous financial institutions and policies. His work set the foundation for modern cooperative systems.

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Kevin Barry

Irish Republican Army volunteer
Born
January 20th, 1902 123 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1920 104 years ago — 18 years old

Born in 1902, a member of the Irish Republican Army engaged in hostilities during the Irish War of Independence. Barry became a prominent figure following his involvement in a failed ambush on British forces. Captured soon after, he was tried and subsequently executed. His death at the young age of 18 sparked significant outrage and became a rallying point for those advocating for Irish independence.

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