What Happened This Year 1921

Born in 1921

Sixto Durán Ballén

Architect and 48th President of Ecuador
Born
July 14th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 95 years old

An architect and politician served as the 48th President of Ecuador from 1992 to 1996. Held significant roles in the construction sector and contributed to various urban development projects. Participated in the founding of political parties and had a longstanding influence in Ecuadorian politics. Pursued economic reforms during presidency and navigated through national challenges, including crises in governance and economic policy. Implemented policies aimed at modernization and infrastructure development throughout the country.

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Robert Bruce Merrifield

American biochemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
July 15th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 85 years old

An American biochemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of peptide synthesis. Developed the solid-phase peptide synthesis method in the early 1960s, revolutionizing peptide chemistry and enabling the synthesis of biologically important peptides. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1984 for this groundbreaking work, which allowed for advancements in both pharmacology and biochemistry. Held a long-standing academic career at institutions such as the Rockefeller University.

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Henri Colpi

French director and screenwriter
Born
July 15th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
January 14th, 2006 19 years ago — 84 years old

Active primarily in the mid-20th century, this director and screenwriter contributed significantly to French cinema. Winner of the Academy Award for Best Short Film in 1963, the individual worked on various acclaimed films, highlighting both storytelling and visual impact. Significant directorial works include 'The Time of the Avenger' and 'The Tenth Day'. Collaborating with prominent figures in the French New Wave movement, the director explored themes of human experience and societal challenges. Various screenplays showcased a distinctive narrative style and character depth, engaging audiences across different demographics.

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Mary Osborne

American guitarist and composer
Born
July 17th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1992 33 years ago — 71 years old

An influential guitarist and composer, contributed to the emergence of women in the jazz and blues genre. Played with renowned figures such as Billie Holiday and was instrumental in bringing the guitar to the forefront of jazz music. Released multiple albums, showcasing innovative techniques and a unique sound that inspired upcoming generations of musicians. Actively performed at various music festivals and events throughout the United States.

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Toni Stone

Professional baseball player, first female in MLB.
Born
July 17th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 75 years old

Became the first woman to play in a major men's professional baseball league. Played in the Negro Leagues for the San Francisco Sea Lions and Indianapolis Clowns. Demonstrated exceptional skill and determination as an infielder. Her career in the Negro Leagues spanned from 1950 to 1954, contributing to the integration of women into professional sports.

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George Barnes

Guitarist and songwriter, contributed to jazz
Born
July 17th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 56 years old

An influential guitarist, producer, and songwriter contributed significantly to the development of jazz and popular music. Developed a unique technique that combined elements of jazz and folk music. Worked with various artists and bands, and produced recordings that showcased innovative guitar arrangements. Collaborated with notable musicians in the 1940s and 1950s, leaving a lasting impact on the guitar landscape. Maintained a career that spanned several decades, continuing to perform and create new music until later in life.

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Richard Leacock

Film director and producer, documentary cinema
Born
July 18th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 90 years old

A pioneer of documentary cinema, contributed significantly to the development of direct cinema. Worked on influential films that emphasized observational filmmaking. Collaborated with significant figures in the industry, including the production of 'Primary' in 1960, which captured the Wisconsin primary election between John F. Kennedy and Hubert Humphrey. Involved in educational film projects and taught at various institutions, influencing future generations of filmmakers.

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Aaron Beck

Psychiatrist and cognitive therapy pioneer
Born
July 18th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 100 years old

A prominent psychiatrist and academic contributed significantly to the field of psychology, particularly through the development of cognitive therapy. Founded the Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavior Therapy, which conducts research and provides training in cognitive therapy. Authored numerous influential books and articles on cognitive theory and therapy, which transformed the treatment of mental health disorders. Beck's work established the foundations for understanding cognitive distortions and their effects on emotional well-being.

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Peter Austin

English brewer, founded Ringwood Brewery
Born
July 18th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2014 11 years ago — 93 years old

Founded a brewery in Hampshire, specializing in traditional cask ales. Ringwood Brewery became prominent for its quality offerings. Developed techniques to improve cask conditioning and brewing processes, influencing the craft beer movement. Instrumental in expanding market reach for regional ales.

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