What Happened This Year 1921

Born in 1921

Sahir Ludhianvi

Indian poet and lyricist of films
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1980 44 years ago — 59 years old

A celebrated poet and lyricist, contributions spanned several decades, greatly influencing Hindi cinema and Urdu literature. Writings often reflected societal issues and romantic themes. Collaborated with numerous filmmakers, creating memorable lyrics that resonated with audiences. Affiliated with the Progressive Writers' Movement, which sought to address social change through literature. Received accolades for poetic works and contributions to film music, leaving a lasting legacy in both fields.

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Abdul Salam Arif

Iraqi politician and military leader
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
April 13th, 1966 58 years ago — 45 years old

Served as the 2nd President of Iraq from 1963 until death in 1966. Held the rank of colonel in the Iraqi Army. Came to power following a coup that ousted the previous regime. Advocated for modernization and sought to improve Iraq's relationships with other Arab nations.

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Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar

Spiritual guru and philosopher
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1990 34 years ago — 69 years old

A spiritual guru, philosopher, and author created a new philosophy called Progressive Utilization Theory. Founded Anandamarg, an organization focused on spiritual practices and social service, and developed a comprehensive system of meditation and yoga. Wrote extensively on topics including spirituality, sociology, and economics, producing numerous books and articles that outlined philosophical principles and practical applications. His teachings emphasized the importance of spiritual growth in conjunction with social change and addressed various aspects of human life, advocating for holistic development.

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László Szekeres

Hungarian physician and academic leader
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent Hungarian physician and academic, contributed significantly to the field of medicine and medical education. Actively engaged in research and published numerous scientific papers that advanced medical knowledge. Played a critical role in the establishment of medical institutions and served on various academic boards. Advocated for systematic reform in medical training.

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Ben Bradlee

Journalist and editor of The Washington Post
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
October 21st, 2014 10 years ago — 93 years old

Served as the executive editor of The Washington Post from 1968 to 1991. Led the newspaper in its coverage of the Watergate scandal, which resulted in the resignation of President Richard Nixon. Oversaw the publication of the Pentagon Papers, which exposed government deception in the Vietnam War. Authored several books, including his memoir 'A Good Life'. Championed investigative journalism and strengthened the paper's reputation as a leading news source.

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Kazimierz Łaski

Economist and academic in Austria
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
October 20th, 2015 9 years ago — 94 years old

An economist and academic active in Poland and Austria contributed significantly to economic theory and policy. Held various academic positions and was involved in research that advanced understanding of economic systems. Focused on the development of economic policy in post-communist countries, providing analysis and guidance for reforms. Published numerous articles and papers, influencing economic thought and policy in the region.

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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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Hua Guofeng

Chinese politician, 2nd Premier of China
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
August 20th, 2008 16 years ago — 87 years old

Served as a prominent political figure in China during the late 1970s and early 1980s. Held the position of Premier from 1976 to 1980, succeeding Zhou Enlai, and served as Chairman of the Communist Party of China. Played a significant role in the transition following Mao Zedong's death, promoting policies that continued the direction of economic reform initiated by Deng Xiaoping. Advocated for agricultural and economic improvements as part of the modernization agenda. Oversaw China's state affairs during a critical period in its history, influencing political stability and reforms.

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