What Happened This Year 1939

People Who Died in 1939

Tom Hayward

English cricketer and Test player
Born
March 29th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 68 years old

An English cricketer played for Sussex and the England national team. Debuted in Test cricket in 1896, contributing significantly as a top-order batsman. Recorded a distinguished first-class career spanning over three decades, amassing more than 21,000 runs. Notably involved in the 1902 Ashes series, helping England secure the trophy against Australia. Also served as an influential cricket coach after retirement, guiding younger players in the sport.

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Harvey Cushing

Neurosurgeon and professor of surgery
Born
April 8th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 70 years old

A pioneering figure in neurosurgery, contributed significantly to the development of the field. Innovated surgical techniques and introduced the use of the term 'brain surgery.' Served as a professor of surgery at Johns Hopkins University and later at Yale University. Authored groundbreaking texts that established neurosurgery as a distinct specialty. Created the field of endocrinology through his research on the pituitary gland and its relation to various diseases.

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Henri Le Sidaner

French painter focused on landscapes
Born
August 7th, 1862 162 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 77 years old

A French painter, associated with the Symbolist movement, specialized in landscapes and still lifes. Studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris and was influenced by Impressionism. Developed a unique style characterized by an ethereal quality and delicate color palette. Received recognition for works featuring serene gardens and atmospheric depictions of light. Exhibited at the Salon des Artistes Français and participated in various exhibitions throughout France. Held a significant retrospective in 1920 which showcased the evolution of artistic style and technique. Passed away in 1939.

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Margarete Böhme

German novelist, author of 'Die Weber'
Born
May 8th, 1867 157 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1867, this German novelist wrote mainly about the experiences of women in society and focused on social themes. The literary career began with early publications, but the significant breakthrough came with the novel 'Die Weber', which explored the lives of weavers in Germany. The author's works often incorporated intricate storytelling with strong character development, reflecting the challenging circumstances faced by women during her time. Böhme's writing contributed to the discourse on women's rights and social justice in the late 19th century, and she remains an essential figure in German literature.

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Stanislav Kosior

Polish-Russian politician and leader
Born
November 18th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 50 years old

Born in 1889, a prominent figure in the Soviet government, held the position of First Secretary of the Communist Party of Ukraine from 1938 to 1947. Played a key role in the organizational structure of the Communist Party during a tumultuous period in Soviet history. Became a member of the Politburo and was influential in shaping policies in Ukraine amidst political shifts and conflicts. Faced political purges, leading to his eventual removal from power in 1947, resulting in a lesser-known legacy within the broader scope of Soviet politics.

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Édouard Fabre

Canadian Runner at 1908 Olympics
Born
August 21st, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 54 years old

Competed in long-distance running events, representing Canada at the 1908 Summer Olympics in London. Participated in the 5000 meters and marathon events, showcasing talent in distance races. Contributed to the early development of athletics in Canada and emerged as one of the prominent athletes of his era.

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Miron Cristea

Romanian Prime Minister and cleric
Born
July 20th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the 38th Prime Minister of Romania from 1926 to 1927. Had a significant role in the Romanian Orthodox Church and was elevated to the position of Patriarch in 1925. Contributed to the political landscape of Romania during the interwar period. Participated in various government initiatives to address national issues.

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Eugene Foss

American politician and governor
Born
September 24th, 1858 166 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 45th Governor of Massachusetts from 1911 to 1912. Engaged in several business ventures before entering politics. Advocated for labor laws and unemployment insurance. Held multiple positions within the state government, contributing to various legislative efforts during tenure.

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Edvard Westermarck

Finnish philosopher and sociologist
Born
November 20th, 1862 162 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 77 years old

A philosopher and sociologist from Finland contributed significantly to the understanding of social phenomena. Focused on the study of marriage, morality, and the origins of social customs, published works include 'The History of Human Marriage' and 'Ethics'. His theories challenged existing views on morality by emphasizing the role of social context in shaping ethical norms. Westermarck's ideas influenced both sociology and anthropology, providing a framework for the study of kinship and social relations.

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