What Happened This Year 1921

Born in 1921

Fletcher Markle

Canadian director and producer of drama
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1991 33 years ago — 70 years old

A notable Canadian director, screenwriter, and producer. Worked extensively in television and film during the mid-20th century. Directed episodes of the Canadian television series 'The Forest Rangers,' which aired from 1963 to 1965. Contributed to the development of Canadian narratives in media. Involved in various projects that showcased Canadian stories and culture.

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Hannah Szenes

Hungarian-Israeli soldier and poet
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1944 80 years ago — 23 years old

Born in Hungary, a poet and paratrooper joined the British Army during World War II. Participated in a mission to rescue Jews in Europe. Captured by the Nazis in Slovenia and tortured for information about her comrades. Executed in 1944. Authored several poems, with the most renowned piece being 'Blessed is the Match', reflecting her bravery and hope amidst adversity.

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Robert Q. Lewis

American actor and game show host
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1991 33 years ago — 70 years old

An actor, comedian, and game show host with a career spanning several decades. Gained prominence as a panelist on game shows, particularly notable for hosting 'Hollywood Squares.' Also appeared in various television programs and films, showcasing a blend of humor and charisma. Contributed to entertainment through hosting and panel participation, engaging audiences with wit and charm.

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Marija Gimbutas

Archeologist with Kurgan Hypothesis
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1994 31 years ago — 73 years old

Lithuanian-American archeologist specialized in European prehistory, focusing on the role of women and matriarchal societies. Gimbutas formulated the Kurgan Hypothesis, which proposed that the Kurgan culture spread Indo-European languages from the steppes into Europe. She conducted extensive excavations and published influential works, including 'The Goddesses and Gods of Old Europe' and 'The Civilization of the Goddess'. Her theories sparked significant discussions in archaeology and anthropology regarding gender roles and the interpretation of ancient societies.

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Meshulim Feish Lowy

Rabbi and author of Jewish texts
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
August 12th, 2015 9 years ago — 94 years old

A rabbi and author, contributed significantly to Jewish literature and education. Raised in Hungary, relocated to Canada, where continued religious leadership and community building. Focused on Jewish texts and traditions, advocating education and scholarship within the community. Engaged in various educational initiatives aimed at promoting Jewish knowledge.

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Alexander Schmemann

Theologian and liturgical scholar
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1983 41 years ago — 62 years old

An Estonian-American priest and theologian, contributed significantly to Orthodox Christianity. Served as a professor at St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary. Focused on the relationship between liturgy and the life of the Church, emphasizing the importance of worship in spiritual life. Authored several influential books, including 'For the Life of the World' and 'The Historical and Dogmatic Foundations of the Liturgical Renewal'. Participated actively in ecumenical dialogues, promoting understanding between different Christian traditions. His work has shaped modern Orthodox thought and liturgical practice.

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Esther Bubley

American photographer and photojournalist
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1998 26 years ago — 77 years old

Started a career in photography during the 1940s, focusing on documentary and portrait photography. Worked for the Farm Security Administration and provided coverage for various publications, capturing daily life and the experiences of people across America. Notable for contributions to Life magazine and other major publications, which showcased societal themes and human stories. Received recognition for work that illustrated American culture and social issues throughout the mid-20th century. Continued to influence photography as an educator, sharing expertise with aspiring photographers.

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Howard Unruh

American murderer with a historic killing spree
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
October 19th, 2009 15 years ago — 88 years old

Committed the Camden, New Jersey mass shooting on September 6, 1949, resulting in the deaths of 13 people. The event marked one of the first widely publicized mass shootings in American history, drawing significant media attention. Unruh exhibited signs of severe mental illness leading up to the shooting. After the incident, he was apprehended and declared insane, ultimately spending decades in mental institutions until his death in 2009.

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Masajuro Shiokawa

Japanese economist and politician, 63rd Finance Minister
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
September 19th, 2015 9 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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