What Happened This Year 1921

Born in 1921

Ib Spang Olsen

Danish author and illustrator of children's books
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
January 15th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old

Contributed to children's literature as an author and illustrator. Created numerous picture books that have been translated into multiple languages. His distinctive style combined simple images with engaging narratives that resonated with young readers. Worked on various projects that emphasized children's imagination and creativity. Continued to influence the field of children's literature until death in 2012.

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Piero Carini

Italian race car driver and competitor
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1957 68 years ago — 36 years old

Competed in various motorsport events during the early 20th century, particularly in the Mille Miglia. Achieved notable success in racing, establishing a reputation in Italian motorsport. Participated in prestigious races throughout Europe, showcasing skill and determination. His career, while tragically cut short, left a lasting impression on the racing community.

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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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Walter D. Ehlers

American lieutenant, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old

Served as a U.S. Army lieutenant during World War II. Participated in the D-Day invasion and the Battle of Normandy. Awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in combat. Ehlers' actions during the war demonstrated significant bravery and leadership under fire, contributing to the success of his unit during critical missions.

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Ruth Barcan Marcus

Philosopher specializing in logic
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
February 19th, 2012 13 years ago — 91 years old

Contributions focused on formal logic and philosophical issues related to quantification and necessity. Pioneered the Barcan formula, which established foundational principles in modal logic. Influenced discussions on the philosophy of language, epistemology, and metaphysics. Had an extensive academic career, holding positions at institutions such as Yale University. Authored multiple influential texts in the field of logic and philosophy.

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Andy Ganteaume

Trinidadian cricketer and record holder
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2016 9 years ago — 95 years old

A Trinidadian cricketer, made significant contributions to the sport during a career that spanned from the late 1940s to the early 1950s. Played first-class cricket for Trinidad and participated in a single Test match for the West Indies in 1948 against England. Recorded a batting average of 112 in Test cricket, which remains one of the highest averages in the format's history. Post-retirement, engaged in various administrative roles within cricket, promoting the game at the grassroots level.

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Peter Florin

German politician, UN General Assembly President
Born
1921 104 years ago
Died
February 17th, 2014 11 years ago — 93 years old

A German politician and diplomat, served as President of the United Nations General Assembly from 1979 to 1980. Engaged in various international relations throughout his career, promoting dialogue and cooperation among countries. His work focused on peacekeeping and conflict resolution. Additionally held significant roles within the German government, influencing foreign policy and international diplomacy. Worked with various international organizations to enhance global governance.

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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 19 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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