What Happened This Year 1921

Born in 1921

Clyde A. Wheeler

American soldier and politician
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
August 26th, 2013 11 years ago — 92 years old

Served in the United States Army during World War II. After military service, entered politics and represented the 24th district in the Illinois State Senate from 1971 to 1981. Focused on veterans' issues and education reform during tenure. Contributed to various legislative efforts that shaped policy in the state.

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Wayne C. Booth

Literary critic and educator, wrote 'The Rhetoric of Fiction'
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
October 10th, 2005 19 years ago — 84 years old

An educator and critic focused on literature and rhetoric. Contributed significantly to the field of literary criticism and the understanding of narrative techniques. Served as a professor at the University of Chicago, where teachings emphasized the importance of rhetoric in literature. Published influential works that shaped the study of narrative and engaged with concepts of authorial intention and reader response.

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Augusta Chiwy

Nurse during World War II
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 2015 9 years ago — 94 years old

A Congolese-Belgian nurse contributed significantly during World War II, providing medical assistance during the Battle of Bastogne. Worked alongside medical units to treat wounded soldiers despite the dangers of war. Spent much of the war in Belgium and faced challenging conditions to ensure the care of those injured. Resided in Belgium for most of her life after the war, advocating for recognition of contributions made by nurses and medical personnel during wartime.

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Fred Foy

American soldier and sports announcer
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2010 14 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a soldier in World War II, earning recognition for bravery. Later became a prominent sports announcer, providing commentary for various sporting events. Best remembered for announcing the Boston Red Sox games and the iconic 'Game of the Century' in 1955 between the University of Notre Dame and the University of Oklahoma.

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Jeanne M. Holm

American general and Air Force leader
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
February 15th, 2010 15 years ago — 89 years old

Significant contributions to the United States Air Force occurred throughout a distinguished military career. Advanced through ranks to become the first woman in the U.S. Armed Forces to achieve a two-star general officer rank. Played a key role in integrating women into the Air Force and advocating for gender equality within the military. Served as a pioneer for women in the armed services and provided leadership in various capacities during military operations.

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Alexander Kronrod

Mathematician and computer scientist
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1986 38 years ago — 65 years old

Contributions focused on mathematical logic, cybernetics, and automata theory. Engaged in research that enhanced understandings of complex systems and algorithms. Active in academic circles, influencing both mathematics and computer science. Served as a professor, guiding future generations of mathematicians and scientists.

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Gaston Rébuffat

Mountaineer and author of famed ascent.
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1985 39 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent figure in the world of mountaineering, this individual contributed significantly to alpine climbing literature and practices. Authoring essential guides and books on climbing, including the acclaimed work 'St. Exupéry's Mountains'. Participated in many notable ascents, including the first winter ascent of the north face of the Matterhorn and numerous climbs in the Mont Blanc Massif. Established reputation as a skilled climber and an inspiring writer, blending narratives of adventure with technical insights into the challenges of high-altitude climbing.

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Michio Nishizawa

Japanese baseball player and manager
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1977 47 years ago — 56 years old

Played as an outfielder in Japanese professional baseball and became a notable manager after retirement. Participated in the early years of Nippon Professional Baseball, contributing to the growth of the sport in Japan. Managed several teams, including the Yomiuri Giants, and influenced the development of many players during the post-war era.

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John T. McNaughton

Assistant Secretary of Defense
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1967 57 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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