What Happened This Year 1921

Born in 1921

Georg Alexander

Duke of Mecklenburg
Born
August 27th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1996 29 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1921, served as the Duke of Mecklenburg during a significant period in European history. The title traditionally belonged to the House of Mecklenburg, which played a notable role in the politics of northern Germany. Following World War II, exiled and lived in various countries before settling in Germany. In addition to carrying out responsibilities associated with the duchy, engaged in cultural and charitable activities that promoted regional heritage.

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Lidia Gueiler Tejada

First female President of Bolivia
Born
August 28th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2011 14 years ago — 90 years old

A politician and activist, served as the first female President of Bolivia from 1979 to 1980. Advocated for social justice and women's rights throughout her political career. Tejada was involved in leftist politics, participating in various organizations and movements dedicated to challenging the inequalities faced by marginalized groups. Her presidency was marked by significant political turmoil and she faced opposition during her time in office, ultimately leading to her resignation. Despite her limited time in power, her election represented a significant moment in Bolivian history and women's representation in politics.

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Fernando Fernán Gómez

Spanish actor and film director
Born
August 28th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
November 21st, 2007 17 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1921, this individual had a significant career in Spanish cinema and theater, excelling as an actor, director, and playwright. In the 1950s, began gaining recognition for roles in films such as 'Viridiana' directed by Luis Buñuel. Directed several successful films, contributing to the growth of Spanish cinema. Notable works include 'La lengua de las mariposas' and 'El viaje a ninguna parte'. The individual received numerous awards, including multiple Goya Awards and the Spanish National Film Award.

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Nancy Kulp

American actress, starred in The Beverly Hillbillies
Born
August 28th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1991 34 years ago — 69 years old

An American actress achieved notable recognition for her role as Jane Hathaway on the television series The Beverly Hillbillies, which aired from 1962 to 1971. Kulp's performance as the bank's secretary provided comedic relief and became a defining aspect of the show. After its conclusion, she continued to act in television and film, featuring in various projects throughout the 1970s and 1980s. In addition to her acting career, Kulp was involved in political activities and ran for office in her later years, reflecting her commitment to civic engagement.

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Iris Apfel

Businesswoman and interior designer
Born
August 29th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
March 1st, 2024 1 years ago — 102 years old

An influential businesswoman and interior designer with a significant impact on the fashion industry. Established a career in textile and fashion design, contributing to various prestigious projects. Co-founded a textile firm, Old World Weavers, which became a respected resource in the design community. Created a widely recognized eye for color and pattern, leading to collaborations with numerous designers and brands. Regarded for a distinctive personal style, which garnered attention on social media and in fashion magazines. Founded a non-profit organization to promote arts and culture.

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Otis G. Pike

American politician and judge
Born
August 31st, 1921 103 years ago
Died
January 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 92 years old

Served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from New York from 1971 to 1979. Prior to his congressional service, held various roles in public office, including as a judge in the State Supreme Court. From 1975 until 1979, chaired the House Select Committee on Intelligence, overseeing intelligence operations and the Church Committee's investigations. His legislative focus included civil rights and governmental transparency.

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Raymond Williams

Welsh author and academic on culture
Born
August 31st, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1988 37 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent figure in literary criticism and cultural studies, contributed significantly to the understanding of culture and its role in society. Scholar specialized in the intersection of literature, sociology, and politics. Authored influential works such as 'Culture and Society' and 'The Long Revolution', which examined the development of cultural theory in the context of social change. Held a position at Cambridge University, where development of courses in drama and literature occurred. Played a role in the founding of the National Theatre in the UK.

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Willem Frederik Hermans

Dutch author and playwright
Born
September 1st, 1921 103 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1995 29 years ago — 73 years old

An influential figure in Dutch literature, produced a significant body of work that includes novels, essays, and plays. Major works include the novel 'The Dark Room of Damocles' and the play 'The Eternal Return'. Contributed to the literary scene with a focus on existential themes and the human condition. Engaged in literary criticism and wrote extensively on various topics including philosophy and art.

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Marguerite Higgins

American journalist and author
Born
September 3rd, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 45 years old

An American journalist and author, this individual gained prominence during the Vietnam War. The journalism career included reporting for the New York Herald Tribune, covering both World War II and the Korean War. Authored 'War in Korea: The Report of a Woman Combat Correspondent,' which documented experiences of combat. Contributed to the coverage of significant global events, becoming one of the first women to report from the front lines.

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