What Happened This Year 1921

Born in 1921

Warren Allen Smith

American journalist and author
Born
October 27th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 96 years old

A journalist, author, and activist focused on LGBTQ rights. Contributed extensively to various publications, advocating for gay rights since the early post-war years. Authored several influential books, including works exploring the lives and histories of LGBTQ individuals. Served as an editor for the gay publication 'Gay' in the 1970s. Pioneered efforts in LGBTQ activism through writing and speaking engagements, influencing public perception and policy.

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Baku Mahadeva

Sri Lankan civil servant and academic
Born
October 29th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2013 12 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent civil servant and academic in Sri Lanka, significant contributions made to the development of the public service and higher education. Served as the Chairman of the Public Service Commission and played a vital role in educational reforms. Influenced policy-making and administration practices in the country through various leadership positions. Worked on initiatives to improve the quality of education and public administration.

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Bill Mauldin

American cartoonist and WWII soldier
Born
October 29th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 2003 22 years ago — 81 years old

Served as a soldier in World War II and created iconic cartoons that portrayed the experiences of soldiers. His work captured the realities of war with humor and poignancy. Received two Pulitzer Prizes for his editorial cartoons and gained recognition for his influential style and subject matter. The characters Willie and Joe became symbols of the GIs during the war, resonating with both soldiers and civilians. Mauldin's cartoons were published in the Stars and Stripes newspaper and after the war in various publications.

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Baselios Thoma Didymos I

Indian Metropolitan of the Malankara Church
Born
October 29th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
May 26th, 2014 10 years ago — 92 years old

Served as the Metropolitan of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church starting in 1975. Played a crucial role in the administration and spiritual guidance of the church, representing it in various ecumenical platforms. Actively participated in interfaith dialogues and focused on social issues affecting the community. Oversaw the establishment of several educational institutions and hospitals under the church's auspices.

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Valli Lember-Bogatkina

Soviet Baltic states politician
Born
October 30th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
2016 9 years ago — 95 years old

Born in 1921, played a significant role in the political landscape of Estonia during the Soviet era. Active in organizing local governance and community initiatives, contributed to the establishment of various cultural and educational programs. Held various political positions, including serving as a member of the Supreme Soviet of the Estonian SSR, where legislative responsibilities included advancing the interests of the local populace. Engaged in various efforts to improve social policies within the Soviet framework.

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Harald Quandt

German businessman and industrial leader
Born
November 1st, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1967 58 years ago — 46 years old

Inherited significant industrial assets in the post-World War II era. Focused on expanding and modernizing the family's conglomerate, which was originally established before the war. Played a key role in the automotive and manufacturing sectors during Germany's economic recovery. Engaged in various business ventures, including contributions to the Daimler-Benz AG Board, enhancing the company's strategic direction and growth. Maintained a low public profile despite substantial financial influence.

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Bill Mosienko

Ice hockey player; set scoring record
Born
November 2nd, 1921 103 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1994 30 years ago — 72 years old

Played for the Chicago Blackhawks in the National Hockey League. Achieved notoriety for scoring three goals in just 21 seconds during a single game against the New York Rangers on March 23, 1952. Also contributed as a coach after retiring from playing. Represented Canada in international competitions, including the World Championships.

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Shepard Menken

Actor and voice artist on cartoons
Born
November 2nd, 1921 103 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 78 years old

An American actor and voice artist, contributed extensively to animation and television during the mid-20th century. Featured prominently in the animated series 'The Jetsons' as the voice of Mr. Spacely. Also voiced characters in 'The Flintstones' and 'DuckTales'. Worked on a variety of voiceover projects, helping to shape characters in popular culture during his career.

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Charles Bronson

Actor and American soldier in film roles
Born
November 3rd, 1921 103 years ago
Died
August 30th, 2003 21 years ago — 81 years old

Served in the United States Army during World War II. Transitioned to a successful acting career post-war with a focus on tough-guy roles. Featured prominently in films such as 'Death Wish', where played Paul Kersey, and starred in 'The Magnificent Seven'. Gained recognition for portrayals in Westerns and action films, often emphasizing themes of justice and revenge. Continued to act in various roles throughout the 1980s and 1990s, maintaining a strong presence in popular culture until retirement.

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