What Happened This Year 1937

People Who Died in 1937

Johnston Forbes-Robertson

English actor and theater manager
Born
January 16th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1853, an English actor and theater manager emerged as one of the leading figures in the theatrical world during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Renowned for Shakespearean roles, he gained acclaim for performances in productions such as 'Hamlet' and 'Othello'. As a theater manager, he significantly influenced the development of the English stage, notably through his leadership at the Lyceum Theatre in London, where he staged numerous successful plays and established new standards in theatrical production and performance. His contribution to theater included distinguishing productions and innovations that shaped the direction of modern English theater.

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Jean-Joseph Rabearivelo

Malagasy-French poet and playwright
Born
March 4th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 36 years old

Born in Madagascar, contributed significantly to literature through poetry and plays. Worked to bridge Malagasy culture with French literary forms. Authored the notable works 'L’Exil' and 'Etudes Malgaches', which highlighted the struggles and beauty of Malagasy life. Explored themes of identity, colonialism, and cultural heritage.

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Andrew W. Mellon

American banker and Secretary of the Treasury
Born
March 24th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the 49th Secretary of the Treasury from 1921 to 1932, overseeing significant economic policies during the 1920s. Played a crucial role in shaping fiscal policy and promoting economic growth after World War I. As a banker and financier, established one of the largest private banks in the U.S. and was instrumental in the creation of the Mellon Foundation, supporting the arts and education. Contributed to various international negotiations and served as ambassador to the United Kingdom.

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Walter Burley Griffin

Architect and urban planner; designed Canberra
Born
November 24th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 61 years old

An architect and urban planner, contributed significantly to the design of cities in the early 20th century. Worked collaboratively with wife Marion Mahony Griffin, producing influential architectural works. The design of Canberra, chosen as the capital of Australia, stands as a major accomplishment. Emphasized the integration of natural landscapes into urban environments and adopted principles of the Prairie School, characterized by horizontal lines and open spaces.

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Nikolai Uglanov

Soviet politician and party leader
Born
December 5th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1886, Uglanov became a prominent figure in Soviet politics. Involved in the Bolshevik movement, he participated in the October Revolution of 1917. Uglanov held various important positions within the Communist Party, including leadership roles in several regional administrations. His political career spanned critical decades in Soviet history, particularly during the early years of the USSR. Uglanov's work focused on governance and the implementation of party policies in Moscow, where he served as the party's Secretary. He contributed to significant political decisions and the restructuring of the party's organization during his tenure.

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Winthrop Ames

Theater director and playwright
Born
November 25th, 1870 154 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 67 years old

Significant contributions made to American theater during the early 20th century. Directed and produced numerous plays, enhancing the cultural landscape of the time. Established the Brandeis Theatre in 1950 and played a crucial role in the promotion of new American works. Fostered relationships with various playwrights and artists, contributing to the development of the theatrical community.

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Sydney Young

English chemist and educator
Born
December 29th, 1857 167 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 80 years old

An English chemist born in 1857, contributed significantly to the field of chemistry through education and research. Served as a professor at various institutions, shaping the curriculum and advancing scientific knowledge. Published papers that focused on analytical chemistry and its applications in industry. Actively engaged in scientific societies, promoting collaboration and research among chemists.

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Albin Prepeluh

Slovenian journalist and politician
Born
February 22nd, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1881, a journalist and politician engaged in Slovenian political life. Contributed to the promotion of Slovene rights and identity. Participated actively in the political process during the interwar period. Established a significant presence in the sphere of journalism, focusing on social and political issues impacting Slovenia. Engaged with various political movements advocating for Slovenian autonomy and independence.

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Charles-Marie Widor

Organist and composer of symphonic works
Born
February 21st, 1844 181 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 93 years old

An influential French organist and composer, recognized for contributions to organ music and symphonic literature. Studied at the Paris Conservatoire. Held the post of organist at Saint-Sulpice Church in Paris, where compositions for organ were performed. Composed several symphonies for organ, notably the 'Symphony No. 5,' which features a famous Toccata. Published numerous organ works and theoretical texts, laying groundwork for later composers. Elected to the Institut de France, highlighting achievements in French music.

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