What Happened This Year 1921

Born in 1921

Mona Van Duyn

Poet and academic, Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 2004 20 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent American poet and academic, contributions spanned both poetry and academia. Served as the Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress from 1999 to 2000. Authored several acclaimed poetry collections, including 'Near Changes' and 'To See the Earth'. Recognized for mastery in exploring personal and universal themes through language. Engaged in teaching at various institutions, imparting knowledge on poetic form and craft.

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John T. McNaughton

Assistant Secretary of Defense
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1967 58 years ago — 46 years old

Served as the United States Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs from 1966 until death in 1967. Worked as an advisor to Robert McNamara during the Vietnam War, focusing on defense policy and international security issues. Contributed to the development of military strategies and helped shape American defense policies in the context of Cold War tensions. Played a role in various defense initiatives and international negotiations.

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Frances Scott Fitzgerald

American journalist and author
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1986 39 years ago — 65 years old

Became a prominent journalist and author, contributing to various publications. Gained significant recognition through writings that explored the American experience and societal norms. Published notable works that captured the essence of the Jazz Age and the disillusionment of the American Dream. Played a key role in the literary scene of the early 20th century.

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Stan Mortensen

English footballer and manager
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1991 34 years ago — 70 years old

A footballer and manager, active primarily during the mid-20th century. Played for Blackpool, contributing significantly to the team's success. Achieved recognition as a forward, known for scoring crucial goals in important matches. Transitioned to management later in career, leading various teams. Participated in the England national team, earning caps and representing the country in international competitions.

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Anthony Sawoniuk

Belarusian SS officer during WWII
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
November 6th, 2005 20 years ago — 84 years old

Served as an SS officer during World War II, actively participating in operations in Nazi-occupied Belarus. Post-war, faced charges for war crimes, including the murder of Jewish civilians. Expressed defiance throughout legal proceedings and claimed to have acted in accordance with orders. Attorney General in the UK pursued the case decades later, leading to a trial that concluded with a conviction followed by the imposition of a prison sentence.

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Stephen Kim Sou-hwan

South Korean cardinal of the Catholic Church
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
February 16th, 2009 16 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the Archbishop of Seoul from 1970 to 1998. Held a prominent role in the Catholic Church, specifically in South Korea. Participated in the Second Vatican Council, contributing to reforms within the church. Engaged in various social issues, advocating for human rights and democracy within the nation during a period of political turmoil. Following retirement, continued to provide spiritual guidance until passing away in 2009.

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Franny Beecher

American guitarist with Bill Haley
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
February 24th, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old

An influential guitarist played a key role in the rise of rock and roll. Joined Bill Haley and His Comets in the early 1950s, contributing to the band's signature sound. Participated in the recording of iconic hits such as 'Rock Around the Clock' and 'See You Later, Alligator.' Established a reputation for skillful performances that helped shape early rock music. Continued to perform and record throughout his life, influencing numerous musicians and bands in the genre.

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Robert Lipshutz

American lawyer, 17th White House Counsel
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
November 6th, 2010 15 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the 17th White House Counsel from 1977 to 1980 during the Carter administration. Provided legal advice on various issues affecting the presidency and government. Worked at the law firm Lipshutz & O'Connor after leaving the White House. Was involved in legal cases of significant political import during tenure.

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Masajuro Shiokawa

Japanese economist and politician, 63rd Finance Minister
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
September 19th, 2015 10 years ago — 94 years old

An economist and politician served as the 63rd Japanese Minister of Finance. Played a significant role in the management of Japan's economic policy during a critical period in the early 21st century. Implemented policies aimed at fiscal consolidation and economic recovery. Was an influential figure in various economic discussions within the government and shaped fiscal policies at a national level.

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