What Happened This Year 1924

Born in 1924

Budge Patty

Tennis player and Wimbledon champion
Born
February 11th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2021 4 years ago — 97 years old

This tennis player excelled in the 1940s and 1950s, achieving significant success on both the amateur and professional circuits. Won the Wimbledon singles title in 1950, highlighting a prominent career that included participation in several Grand Slam tournaments. Secured a total of three Grand Slam singles titles during a competitive era. Renowned for strong serves and effective volleys, contributed to the global popularity of tennis.

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Jean-Jacques Servan-Schreiber

French journalist and politician
Born
February 13th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2006 19 years ago — 82 years old

Servan-Schreiber worked as a journalist and politician in France. He founded the newspaper L'Express in 1953, which became influential in French journalism. He served as a member of the National Assembly from 1967 to 1973. As a politician, he advocated for European integration and modernization of France's economy. His writings significantly influenced public opinion and political discourse in post-war France, particularly during periods of societal change.

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Patricia Knatchbull

Countess Mountbatten of Burma
Born
February 14th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 93 years old

Born into British aristocracy, held the title of 2nd Countess Mountbatten of Burma. Actively involved in various charitable organizations and social causes. Inherited a legacy associated with high military and royal connections, being a granddaughter of the last Viceroy of India. Received numerous honors and recognition for public service.

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Juan Ponce Enrile

Filipino politician and lawmaker
Born
February 14th, 1924 101 years ago

A prominent Filipino politician, served as the Secretary of National Defense during the Martial Law era under the Marcos administration. Played a crucial role in the declaration of Martial Law in 1972 and later became a key figure in the political landscape of the Philippines. Held various significant positions including Senate President and was involved in the impeachment trial of Chief Justice Renato Corona. Contributed to legislative processes over several decades, influencing laws and policies in the country.

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Margaret Truman

Author and singer, wrote 'First Ladies'
Born
February 17th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
January 29th, 2008 17 years ago — 83 years old

An American singer and author, celebrated for contributions to literature and music. Engaged in a prolific writing career, producing numerous books, including biographies of First Ladies and historical novels. Also performed as a concert singer, showcasing talent in various venues across the United States. The daughter of a former U.S. President, her work often reflected a blend of personal and political insights, making lasting contributions to the understanding of American history and culture.

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Lee Marvin

American actor in film and television
Born
February 19th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1987 37 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1924, became a prominent figure in American cinema during the 1960s and 1970s. Notable for portraying tough, gritty characters, gained recognition for roles in films such as 'The Dirty Dozen' and 'Cat Ballou', where demonstrated versatility, earning an Academy Award for Best Actor. Featured in numerous television series, including 'M Squad', which helped establish a solid career in both film and television. Marvin's military service in World War II significantly influenced his acting style. His unique voice and commanding on-screen presence made him a memorable figure in Hollywood.

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David Bronstein

Chess Player and Theoretician
Born
February 19th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
December 5th, 2006 18 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent chess player and theoretician, achievements include challenging for the World Chess Championship in 1951 against Mikhail Botvinnik. Contributed extensively to chess theory and authored numerous chess books. Helped advance the understanding of opening strategies and endgame techniques within the chess community. His innovative approaches influenced many players and analysts in the field.

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Gloria Vanderbilt

Fashion designer and actress
Born
February 20th, 1924 101 years ago
Died
June 17th, 2019 5 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent fashion designer, socialite, and actress, contributions spanned multiple fields. In 1976, launched a successful line of jeans that became a cultural phenomenon. Created an iconic slip-on jeans style that represented luxury and comfort. Additionally, starred in the film 'The Last of Mrs. Lincoln' and appeared on television series such as 'The Love Boat'. Authored several books, including novels and memoirs, providing insight into personal experiences and life as a socialite.

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Robert Mugabe

Politician and 2nd President of Zimbabwe
Born
February 21st, 1924 101 years ago
Died
September 6th, 2019 5 years ago — 95 years old

Served as Prime Minister from 1980 to 1987 and then as President of Zimbabwe from 1987 to 2017. Played a significant role in the country's liberation struggle and post-colonial governance. Introduced policies that aimed at redistributing land from white farmers to black Zimbabweans, which sparked controversy and led to economic decline. His administration was marked by allegations of human rights violations and electoral fraud.

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