What Happened This Year 1921

Born in 1921

Betty Meggers

American archaeologist and academic
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2012 12 years ago — 91 years old

Held a prominent position in archaeology, focusing on the Amazon region. Meggers contributed significantly to the understanding of pre-Columbian societies and their interactions with the environment. Authored several influential publications, including works highlighting the complexities of ancient civilizations in South America. Served as a professor and held various academic roles throughout a lengthy career, which spanned several decades, impacting research methodologies and educational practices in archaeology.

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Angelo Mangiarotti

Architect and academic focused on design
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 2012 12 years ago — 91 years old

An architect and academic, contributed to modern architecture through innovative designs and teaching. Worked extensively in Italy, establishing a reputation for merging functionality with aesthetics. Designed prominent structures, integrating traditional and contemporary styles. Received acclaim for original approach to material use and structural systems. Engaged with students and professionals, emphasizing the importance of design education. His work has influenced a generation of architects.

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Gitta Sereny

Historian and author of 'Into That Darkness'
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
June 14th, 2012 12 years ago — 91 years old

Austrian-English historian and journalist focused on the study of the Holocaust and Nazi Germany. Authored several influential books including 'Into That Darkness', which reflected on the life of Franz Stangl, commandant of Treblinka. Explored themes of guilt, complicity, and the nature of evil through interviews and historical scholarship. Contributed articles to major publications and worked as a filmmaker, producing documentaries that highlighted important historical narratives.

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Gunnar Nordahl

Swedish footballer and AC Milan forward
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1995 29 years ago — 74 years old

Played as a forward, contributing significantly to the success of AC Milan during the 1950s. Had a prolific scoring record, finishing as Serie A's top scorer multiple times. Represented Sweden in international competitions, including the FIFA World Cup. Transitioned into management after retirement from playing, taking on various coaching roles in Swedish football.

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Harry J. Lipkin

Israeli physicist and academic
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
September 15th, 2015 9 years ago — 94 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of theoretical physics, particularly in quantum mechanics and particle physics. Served as a professor at the Weizmann Institute of Science, where research focused on fundamental symmetries in particle interactions. Played a key role in advancing understanding of the strong force that binds protons and neutrons within atomic nuclei. Authored or co-authored numerous articles and papers that have been influential in the education of future physicists.

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Frank Evans

Baseball player and manager for several teams
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 2012 12 years ago — 91 years old

Played as a baseball player and later transitioned into coaching and management. Managed teams in the minor leagues and contributed to player development. Worked with various organizations over several decades in the sport. Served as a mentor to many emerging talents in baseball.

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Brian Talboys

New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2012 12 years ago — 91 years old

Served as New Zealand's 7th Deputy Prime Minister between 1975 and 1978. Held the position of Minister of Education and Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries during the 1970s. Contributed to various educational reforms and agricultural policies. Played a significant role in the National Party's governance and policies during his tenure.

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Saul Zaentz

Film Producer; produced 'The English Patient'
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent film producer, involvement in the industry encompassed the production of critically acclaimed films. Founded the production company Fantasy Films, which later became known as The Saul Zaentz Company. Produced 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest', which won six Academy Awards. 'Amadeus' and 'The English Patient' received multiple Oscars, solidifying the connection to modern cinema. Died in 2014.

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Andrew Imbrie

Composer and academic of contemporary music
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2007 17 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent American composer and academic associated with contemporary classical music, contributions included works for orchestra, chamber ensembles, and choral pieces. Served on the faculty at the University of California, Berkeley, where teachings influenced a generation of musicians. The composer received accolades for his innovative approach to music composition, integrating various styles and techniques. His works have been performed by notable ensembles and orchestras, showcasing his established presence in the American music scene.

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