What Happened This Year 1921

Born in 1921

Frank McGee

American journalist and news anchor
Born
September 12th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 53 years old

A journalist and television news anchor, significant contributions were made to broadcast journalism during the 1960s and 1970s. Worked as the news anchor for NBC News and reported on major events such as the Vietnam War and civil rights movements. Played a crucial role in the coverage of the Watergate scandal. Developed a reputation for his thorough reporting and ability to conduct tough interviews. His tenure is marked by a commitment to journalistic integrity.

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Stanisław Lem

Science fiction author and philosopher
Born
September 12th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
March 27th, 2006 18 years ago — 84 years old

A prolific author and thinker, this individual wrote extensively in the genre of science fiction, blending philosophical themes with imaginative narratives. Works include the novel 'Solaris', which explores complex interactions between humans and extraterrestrial intelligence, and 'The Cyberiad', a collection of stories focused on the adventures of two constructors in a robot universe. Contributions spanned essays and critiques on technology and futurism, influencing both literature and science. Engaged in discussions on artificial intelligence, technology's role in society, and the nature of humanity.

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Constance Baker Motley

American lawyer and judge
Born
September 14th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
September 28th, 2005 19 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent lawyer, judge, and politician who played a crucial role in the civil rights movement. Served as the first African American woman to be appointed to the Manhattan borough presidency. Worked extensively with the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and was instrumental in key legal cases that advanced civil rights, including Brown v. Board of Education. Her career included serving as a federal judge for the Southern District of New York, where she presided over many significant cases.

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Paul Poberezny

Founder of Experimental Aircraft Association
Born
September 14th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 2013 11 years ago — 91 years old

Aviation pioneer and businessman founded the Experimental Aircraft Association in 1953, promoting recreational aviation and supporting homebuilt aircraft. Played a crucial role in organizing the annual Oshkosh AirVenture, the world's largest aviation event. Contributed significantly to the growth and development of the experimental aircraft movement through advocacy and education.

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Richard Gordon

Surgeon and author of medical books
Born
September 15th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 96 years old

An English surgeon specialized in the field of surgery and authored several medical books. Contributed to the popularization of surgical practices through engaging writings. Served as a consultant surgeon and conducted surgeries at various institutions. His works offered insights into the medical profession, combining expertise with accessible language for a broader audience. Engaged in teaching and made significant contributions to surgical education.

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Korla Pandit

Pianist and composer, television pioneer
Born
September 16th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1998 27 years ago — 77 years old

Originated as a musician in the 1940s, contributed to the genre of exotica music. Gained fame through a television show that showcased his piano performances, blending music with hypnotic visuals. Utilized striking visual elements, including unique attire and makeup, to enhance performances. His work paved the way for later musicians and performers within the genre, establishing a significant presence in popular music at the time.

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Jon Hendricks

American jazz vocalist and lyricist
Born
September 16th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 96 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of vocalese, a style of jazz where lyrics are set to instrumental solos. Collaborated with the innovative vocal group Lambert, Hendricks & Ross, which popularized this genre, and was instrumental in bringing vocal jazz to a broader audience. Recorded several influential albums, including 'Sing a Song of Basie' and 'The Hottest New Group in Jazz'. Acknowledged for his exceptional ability to blend skillful lyric writing with intricate jazz harmonies. His work spanned multiple decades, influencing future generations of musicians and vocalists.

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Ursula Franklin

German-Canadian metallurgist and educator
Born
September 16th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 95 years old

Contributed significant research in materials science, particularly metallurgy. Worked at the University of Toronto as a professor, influencing generations of students. Advocated for nuclear disarmament and social justice, linking scientific practice to ethical responsibilities. Published influential writings in both scientific and public domains, emphasizing the interplay between technology and society.

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Paulo Freire

Brazilian educational theorist and philosopher
Born
September 19th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1997 27 years ago — 75 years old

A Brazilian philosopher and educator, focused on critical pedagogy. Developed a method of education emphasizing dialogue and reflection, aimed at empowering marginalized voices. Authored several influential books, including 'Pedagogy of the Oppressed,' which laid the groundwork for transformative approaches in education. His work has sparked movements in literacy and social change worldwide.

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