What Happened This Year 1940

People Who Died in 1940

Manuel Azaña

Spanish politician and 7th President
Born
January 10th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 60 years old

Azaña served as the 7th President of Spain during the Second Spanish Republic. A lawyer by training, he was a key figure in the Spanish political landscape of the early 20th century. Continuously involved in politics, he advocated for the Spanish Civil Constitution and worked towards modernizing Spain's government and society. Azaña's presidency oversaw significant political turmoil culminating in the Spanish Civil War. He sought to ensure stability and pursued policies that reflected his republican ideals until the eventual fall of the republic.

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James Craig

Irish politician, 1st Prime Minister of Northern Ireland
Born
January 8th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1871, served as the first Prime Minister of Northern Ireland from 1921 to 1940. Involved in the Irish Unionist movement, played a prominent role in the formation of Northern Ireland as a separate entity from the rest of Ireland. Held significant influence in Unionist politics during his tenure, promoting policies aligned with British interests in the region. Oversaw the establishment of the new Parliament of Northern Ireland and dealt with various domestic issues including the economic impact of the Great Depression. Craigavan's leadership is marked by efforts to maintain stability within Northern Ireland amidst rising tensions.

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Marguerite Clark

American actress of silent films
Born
February 22nd, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 57 years old

Achieved fame in the early 20th century as a prominent silent film actress. Gained popularity for charming performances in romantic and fantasy films. Starred in memorable productions such as "The Little Princess" and "Cinderella". Transitioned to sound films in the late 1920s but gradually stepped back from the industry, leaving a legacy as a beloved figure in early cinema.

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Frederick Converse

Composer and academic known for orchestral works
Born
January 5th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1871, one of the prominent American composers of the early 20th century. Studied at Harvard University and in Europe, becoming a significant figure in the development of American classical music. Emphasized a blend of traditional and modern techniques in compositions. Served on the faculty of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, contributing to music education. His works include symphonic pieces and choral music that reflect both European influences and American themes.

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Humbert Wolfe

Italian-English poet and civil servant
Born
January 5th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1885, a civil servant and poet with Italian roots. Worked in the British government and wrote poetry that often reflected his observations on society and life. His literary career included several published collections, with themes ranging from the mundane to the profound. Contributed to the literary scene in the early 20th century, earning recognition for his unique voice and style.

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Mordechai Frizis

Greek colonel and World War II leader
Born
January 1st, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 47 years old

Served as a Greek military officer during World War II. Played a significant role in the Greek resistance against Axis forces. Commanded the forces in the Battle of Greece, demonstrating leadership in challenging circumstances. Participated in the fight to protect Greek sovereignty and contributed to various military operations in Albania. His leadership in these campaigns earned recognition for strategic capabilities and resilience under adversity.

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Jehan Alain

French organist and composer
Born
February 3rd, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 29 years old

A composer and organist contributed significantly to 20th-century music. Specialized in organ compositions and avant-garde styles, created numerous works that gained recognition posthumously. Studied under prominent teachers and developed a unique musical language that reflected both traditional and modern influences. The Philippe's organ concertos and other pieces showcased innovative harmonies and structural elements. Active during a tumultuous period leading up to World War II, his career was cut short due to his untimely death in 1940, yet his legacy continued to influence musicians and composers.

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Annie Dale Biddle Andrews

Mathematician and women's education advocate
Born
December 13th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1885, a mathematician contributed significantly to mathematics education. Worked extensively on improving the status of women in mathematics. Served as the first woman faculty member at the University of North Carolina, focusing on higher education for women. Authored multiple mathematical textbooks and educational materials.

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Gerda Wegener

Danish artist known for painting
Born
March 15th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 1886, an artist gained recognition for her portrait work and contributions to the visual art community in the early 20th century. The artist collaborated with her husband, Einar Wegener, who transitioned to become Lili Elbe, one of the first known transgender women to undergo gender confirmation surgery. This personal experience inspired several works that highlighted themes of gender identity and fluidity. The artist's paintings often featured elegant figures and a distinct Art Deco style, contributing to the diversity of early modernist art. The body of work remains influential in discussions surrounding identity and representation in art.

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