What Happened This Year 1938

People Who Died in 1938

Johnny Gruelle

American author and illustrator of Raggedy Ann
Born
December 24th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1938 87 years ago — 57 years old

An author and illustrator, contributed significantly to children's literature through the creation of Raggedy Ann. Published the first Raggedy Ann book in 1918, which introduced the beloved character to audiences. Established a series of stories featuring Raggedy Ann and her friends, appealing to the imagination of young readers. Worked as an illustrator for various publications and continued to create several Raggedy Ann books until death in 1938.

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Oscar Florianus Bluemner

Painter and illustrator of color theories
Born
June 21st, 1867 157 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1938 87 years ago — 70 years old

A German-American painter and illustrator, this individual contributed significantly to the development of modern color theory within the visual arts. Arriving in the United States in the early 20th century, this artist created a body of work characterized by vibrant colors and abstract forms. The artist's work combined elements of landscape and abstraction, demonstrating a unique approach to light and color. Most notably, incorporation of German expressionism influenced many of the paintings created during this period. The individual exhibited frequently and gained recognition among contemporary art circles.

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Jaakko Mäki

Finnish politician and legislator
Born
January 2nd, 1878 147 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1938 87 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1878, this individual became a significant figure in Finnish politics during the early 20th century. Participated actively in the Finnish Parliament, representing the interests of the working class. Contributed to the development of social policies and labor rights during a transformative period in Finnish history. Engaged in various political reforms aimed at improving the quality of life for citizens. Held a prominent role in shaping the social democratic movement in Finland.

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Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay

Bengali novelist and social reformer
Born
September 15th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1938 87 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent Bengali novelist, this individual wrote extensively about social issues and human emotions. Born in 1876, the writer produced a significant body of work that depicted the struggles and aspirations of common people. Some of the most notable novels include 'Devdas', which explores the themes of unrequited love and societal constraints, and 'Parineeta', which focuses on love and social norms in Indian society. The legacy includes a portrayal of the rural Bengal landscape and critical commentaries on the social practices of the time, influencing generations of readers and writers.

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Branislav Nušić

Serbian playwright and author of comedies
Born
1864 161 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1938 87 years ago — 74 years old

An influential Serbian author, playwright, and journalist, contributed significantly to Belgrade's cultural life in the early 20th century. Worked as a member of the Serbian government and published numerous works reflecting societal themes through satire and humor. His most significant contributions to literature include plays that critiqued social issues, focusing on the absurdities of life and politics. Additionally, engaged in journalism, promoting cultural criticism and public discourse.

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Georges Méliès

French film director and illusionist
Born
December 8th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1938 87 years ago — 76 years old

A pioneering figure in filmmaking, primarily recognized for creating the first narrative films and introducing special effects. Established the use of multiple scenes in a single shot and storytelling in cinema. Directed and starred in over 500 films, with a significant impact on the art form during the early 20th century. The film 'A Trip to the Moon' (1902) showcased innovative techniques and visual storytelling that influenced future filmmakers. Founded the Star Film Company, which produced many of the earliest fantasy films, helping to define the genre and artistic possibilities of cinema.

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Bernd Rosemeyer

Race car driver, Mercedes-Benz champion
Born
October 14th, 1909 115 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1938 87 years ago — 28 years old

Participated in automobile racing during the 1930s, achieving significant success in Grand Prix events. Rosemeyer drove for the Auto Union team and became widely recognized for high-speed performances on challenging tracks. Achieved victory in the 1936 European Grand Prix, securing a prominent place in motorsport history. Tragically died in a racing accident in 1938, leaving a legacy in the world of competitive racing.

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Hans Litten

German lawyer known for legal resistance
Born
June 19th, 1903 121 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1938 87 years ago — 34 years old

A German lawyer and jurist, focused on anti-Nazi legal defense, particularly represented political dissidents. Gained attention for cross-examining Adolf Hitler during a trial in 1931, which highlighted the regime's oppressive tactics. Faced persecution by the Nazi regime, leading to imprisonment and eventual death in a concentration camp in 1938. Litten's work signified legal challenges against totalitarianism.

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Marianne von Werefkin

Russian-Swiss painter and key artist.
Born
September 10th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1938 87 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent painter associated with the early 20th-century art scene, contributed significantly to expressionism. Studied under major influences and became an integral part of the Munich avant-garde community. Co-founded the artist group "Der Blaue Reiter" with fellow artists. Explored themes of spirituality and emotion in artwork, often using vibrant colors and bold forms. Exhibited works across Europe and was recognized for her unique style and dedication to the craft until death.

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