What Happened This Year 1938

People Who Died in 1938

Ernst Ludwig Kirchner

German-Swiss painter of expressionism
Born
May 6th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1938 86 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1880, this artist played a leading role in the expressionist movement and was a founding member of the 'Die Brücke' group in Dresden. The artist's work is characterized by vivid colors and dynamic forms, conveying emotional experiences. Many of his paintings depicted urban life and figures in various states of abstraction. After serving in World War I, the artist's work evolved to reflect more introspective themes. The artist's pieces remained influential throughout his career, contributing to various art movements in the 20th century. His legacy continued even after his death in 1938.

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C. J. Dennis

Australian poet and author of 'The Songs of a Sentimental Bloke'
Born
September 7th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 1938 86 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1876 in Australia, a poet and author gained recognition for crafting verse that captured the essence of Australian life and culture. The work 'The Songs of a Sentimental Bloke', published in 1915, became emblematic of the Australian literary scene. This collection featured a blend of humor, sentiment, and local dialect, appealing to a broad audience and solidifying a place in Australian literature. Throughout a prolific career, engaged with various forms of writing including poetry, short stories, and works for children, contributing significantly to the literary landscape of Australia.

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James Weldon Johnson

Author and civil rights activist
Born
June 17th, 1871 153 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1938 86 years ago — 67 years old

An author, journalist, and civil rights activist, this individual contributed significantly to the Harlem Renaissance. Works included the organizing of the NAACP and the composition of the anthem 'Lift Every Voice and Sing.' Additionally, served as the first African American executive secretary of the NAACP from 1920 to 1930, advocating for civil rights during a pivotal time in American history. Other literary contributions included novels and poetry, which highlighted the African American experience.

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Daria Pratt

American golfer with championship titles
Born
March 21st, 1859 166 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1938 86 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1859, a prominent American golfer played in the late 19th century. Competed at notable tournaments and was recognized as an early figure in women's golf. Achieved success in various championships, contributing to the growth of the sport for women.

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Suzanne Lenglen

French tennis champion and pioneer
Born
May 24th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1938 86 years ago — 39 years old

One of the first female tennis stars, made significant contributions to women's tennis during the early 20th century. Achieved remarkable success at the French Championships and Wimbledon, where her powerful serve and net play transformed the sport. Captured numerous Grand Slam titles, establishing a legacy as a trailblazer for women in athletics.

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Otto Bauer

Austrian politician and philosopher
Born
September 5th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1938 86 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent figure in early 20th-century Austrian politics and philosophy, contributed significantly to socialist theory and practice. Served as the Foreign Minister of Austria after World War I, playing a critical role in shaping the country's foreign policy during the turbulent post-war period. Was an influential member of the Social Democratic Workers' Party and worked extensively on issues related to national identity and social democracy. His writings on the national question and political thought have remained relevant in political discussions.

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Benjamin N. Cardozo

American lawyer and Supreme Court Justice
Born
May 24th, 1870 154 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1938 86 years ago — 68 years old

Served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1932 until 1938. Contributed significantly to legal thought in the United States, particularly in the fields of tort law and contract law. Prior to the Supreme Court appointment, held the position of Chief Judge of the New York Court of Appeals. Recognized for eloquent opinions that shaped modern legal principles and approached judicial decision-making with a focus on justice and fairness.

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Arthur Barclay

15th President of Liberia
Born
July 31st, 1854 170 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1938 86 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the 15th president of Liberia from 1904 to 1912. Leadership focused on economic development and infrastructure improvements. Advocated for modernizing the agricultural sector and promoting education. Implemented policies that aimed to strengthen the economy and increase trade relations with other nations.

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Marie of Romania

Queen and philanthropist of Romania
Born
October 29th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1938 86 years ago — 62 years old

Marie served as the Queen consort of Romania from 1914 to 1927. Born into the British royal family, she was the granddaughter of Queen Victoria. Marie played a significant role during World War I, advocating for the Romanian military and providing medical care to soldiers. She was a key figure in the establishment of the Romanian Red Cross and contributed to various charitable endeavors. After the war, she participated in the peace negotiations in Paris and supported the Greater Romania initiative. Marie also had a passion for art and literature, writing several books. Her leadership greatly influenced Romanian cultural life during her reign.

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