What Happened This Year 1940

People Who Died in 1940

Tom Mix

Western film star and silent movie actor
Born
January 6th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1940 84 years ago — 60 years old

A significant figure in early Hollywood, this actor became a prominent Western star during the silent film era. He starred in over 150 films, many of which established the Western genre in American cinema. His on-screen persona portrayed the ideal cowboy, characterized by a charismatic presence and impressive horsemanship. Mixing stunts and action in his roles captivated audiences and laid the groundwork for future Western films. His impact on the genre earned him a lasting legacy, influencing subsequent generations of filmmakers and actors. Later in life, Mix became involved in various business ventures and continued to be a figure in popular culture.

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Lluís Companys

Catalan politician and lawyer
Born
June 21st, 1882 142 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1940 84 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent Catalan lawyer and politician, served as the 123rd President of Catalonia from 1934 until his arrest in 1940. Played a significant role in Catalonia's push for autonomy during the Spanish Civil War. Advocated for the rights and status of Catalonia within Spain. Captured by the Nazis in France and extradited to Spain, was executed in 1940.

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William G. Conley

American educator and politician, Governor
Born
January 8th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1940 84 years ago — 74 years old

Served as the 18th Governor of West Virginia from 1925 to 1929. Focused on educational reform and infrastructure development during the tenure. Prior experience included legislative duties and local government roles, contributing to initiatives improving state resources. Advocated for better educational opportunities for residents of West Virginia, emphasizing the importance of education for economic growth. Contributed to the state's adaptation to the challenges of the post-World War I era.

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Thomas Waddell

Irish-Australian politician and Premier
Born
January 1st, 1854 171 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1940 84 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the 15th Premier of New South Wales, assuming office in 1891. Represented the Labor Party and was notable for his advocacy of workers' rights and land reform. Held various government positions prior to premiership, including Minister for Public Works. His leadership during a time of economic difficulty was marked by efforts to address labor issues and infrastructural development.

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Arthur Rostron

English sea captain and lifeboat rescuer
Born
May 14th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1940 84 years ago — 71 years old

Contributed significantly to maritime safety through expertise in lifeboat rescues. Commanded the RMS Carpathia during its response to the Titanic disaster, successfully rescuing survivors in 1912. Received the Silver Medal of the Royal Humane Society for remarkable bravery during the rescue operations. Later served as the Chief Constable of the Liverpool Dock Police.

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Neville Chamberlain

British Prime Minister during WWII
Born
March 18th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1940 84 years ago — 71 years old

Served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1937 to 1940. Focused on foreign policy aimed at preventing World War II through appeasement of Adolf Hitler. Signed the Munich Agreement in 1938, conceding the Sudetenland to Germany in an effort to maintain peace. Faced criticism and political pressure as the war progressed and ultimately resigned in 1940 following military setbacks.

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Stephen Alencastre

American bishop and missionary leader
Born
November 3rd, 1876 148 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1940 84 years ago — 64 years old

A leader in the missionary movement, contributed significantly to the growth of the Catholic Church in the United States and Hawaii. Played a crucial role in establishing the Catholic mission in Hawaii during the early 20th century. Facilitated the construction of churches and schools, thereby promoting education and religious instruction. Oversaw the development of local clergy and the parish structure in the islands.

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Muhittin Akyüz

Turkish general and diplomat
Born
1870 155 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1940 84 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a general in the Turkish military and held significant diplomatic roles during the early 20th century. Played a vital part in diplomatic negotiations following World War I, representing Turkey in various capacities. Involved in discussions that shaped modern Turkey's international relations and military strategy. Contributed to the establishment of peace treaties that helped redefine borders and governance after the war.

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Raymond Pearl

Biologist and botanist, studied populations
Born
June 3rd, 1879 145 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1940 84 years ago — 61 years old

Notable contributions to the field of biology and botany, focused on population studies and the effects of aging. Conducted extensive research on demographic trends and their implications. Helped establish the statistical method of actuarial science in biology. Published various papers and books that addressed the relationships between population growth and environmental factors.

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