What Happened This Year 1923

Born in 1923

Alan Dugan

American soldier and poet
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 2003 22 years ago — 80 years old

Served in the United States Army during World War II, participating in significant military operations. After the war, transitioned into a writing career, focusing on poetry that explored themes of war, humanity, and personal experience. Published several collections, gaining recognition for the ability to merge military experience with literary craft. Received prestigious awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1961 for the collection "Poems."

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Melvin Day

New Zealand painter and historian
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
January 17th, 2016 10 years ago — 93 years old

An accomplished painter and historian focused on New Zealand's artistic landscape. Specialization in traditional Māori art and contemporary New Zealand painting marked significant contributions. Worked as a lecturer in the School of Fine Arts at the University of Canterbury, influencing a generation of artists. Published various texts on art history and its context in New Zealand, enriching the understanding of the country's cultural identity.

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Brigitte Askonas

Immunologist with vaccine research
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
January 9th, 2013 13 years ago — 90 years old

An immunologist and academic made significant contributions to the field of immunology, particularly in vaccine development. Work included research on the immune response and the mechanisms of autoimmune diseases. Collaborated with prominent scientists and institutions on various research projects. Served as a professor and held important academic positions throughout a career spent in both Austria and the United Kingdom.

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Red Garland

American jazz pianist and bandleader
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1984 41 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent jazz pianist and bandleader, contributed significantly to the bebop and hard bop styles. As a member of the Miles Davis Quintet in the 1950s, played a critical role in establishing modern jazz piano. Recorded iconic albums, including 'A Garland of Red' and 'Groovy'. His unique style emphasized block chords and lyrical melodies, influencing generations of musicians.

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Henry Segerstrom

Businessman and philanthropist
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
February 20th, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent businessman and philanthropist, contributed significantly to real estate development in Southern California. Founded the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, enhancing cultural engagement in the region. Served as president of the South Coast Plaza, one of the largest shopping centers in the United States, which became a key site for retail and arts in Orange County. His philanthropic efforts focused on the arts, education, and health care, supporting various organizations and initiatives.

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Ruth Goldbloom

Canadian philanthropist and academic leader
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
August 29th, 2012 13 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent Canadian academic and philanthropist, contributed significantly to the development of cultural and educational organizations. Co-founded Pier 21, a national historic site in Halifax, celebrating Canada's immigration story. Played a vital role in advancing education and community engagement through various initiatives and organizations. Advocated for the importance of preserving Canadian heritage.

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Charles Wheeler

Soldier and journalist in conflict zones
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
July 4th, 2008 17 years ago — 85 years old

Served as a soldier during World War II and reported from various conflict zones as a journalist. Contributed to television news coverage in the UK, becoming a recognizable figure in British journalism. The reporting style emphasized on-the-ground updates from war-torn areas, allowing a deeper understanding of military actions and humanitarian crises.

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Richard G. Hewlett

Historian and author on atomic energy
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
September 1st, 2015 10 years ago — 92 years old

Focused on the history of atomic energy and its impact on society. Hewlett authored several influential works, including 'Atomic Energy and the Presidency' and 'Regulating the Atom'. His scholarship contributed to the understanding of nuclear policies and their historical context. Served as a historian for the American Institute of Physics, gathering and preserving significant historical documents related to nuclear science. Engaged in educational and outreach activities to raise awareness about the history of atomic energy.

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Reima Pietilä

Finnish architect, co-designer of Kaleva Church
Born
1923 103 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1993 32 years ago — 70 years old

An architect contributed significantly to Finnish architecture during the 20th century. Co-designed Kaleva Church in Oulu, Finland, alongside his wife, which became a landmark example of modern ecclesiastical architecture. Focused on integrating nature into architectural designs, utilizing innovative materials and forms. Held a strong personal philosophy on creating spaces that encouraged human interaction.

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