What Happened This Year 1940

People Who Died in 1940

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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William Henry Davies

Welsh poet and writer of 'The Autobiography'
Born
July 3rd, 1871 153 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 69 years old

Born in Wales in 1871, this poet and writer became recognized for his vivid depictions of nature and his examinations of the human condition. After a troubled childhood and a series of odd jobs, he found solace in writing poetry. Davies published several collections, with 'The Autobiography of a Super-Tramp' receiving particular acclaim. The work chronicles his experiences as a wanderer and his reflections on society. His poetry often combined themes of nature and personal experience, displaying a deep appreciation for the world around him. Throughout his career, he contributed to various literary magazines and continued to write until his death in 1940.

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Phan Bội Châu

Vietnamese nationalist leader
Born
December 26th, 1867 157 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 73 years old

An influential figure in Vietnam's early 20th-century nationalist movement. Advocated for independence from French colonial rule and sought to modernize Vietnam. Founded the Vietnam Revolutionary Society in 1904 to promote patriotic education and resistance against colonialism. Engaged in various activities to rally support for independence, including collaboration with Chinese revolutionaries. Arrested by French authorities in 1925 and subsequently exiled to Japan, where efforts to further Vietnam's independence continued.

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Jacques-Arsène d'Arsonval

Physicist and physician, developed thermography
Born
June 8th, 1851 173 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 89 years old

Contributions to the fields of physics and medicine included the development of thermography, a technique for measuring temperature variations in living tissues. Focused on the study of electrical phenomena, particularly the effects of electromagnetic fields on biological systems. Served as a physician and worked extensively on the medical applications of electricity. His research advanced the understanding of the physiological effects of electrical therapies and laid groundwork for future innovations in medical diagnostics.

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Charles Sumner Tainter

Engineer and inventor of the Graphophone
Born
April 25th, 1854 170 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 86 years old

An engineer and inventor contributed significantly to the development of sound recording technologies. Tainter co-invented the Graphophone, an early phonograph, which utilized wax cylinders for recording sound. This innovation represented a major advancement in audio recording and playback. Tainter also held several patents related to sound technology and played a key role in the establishment of the Columbia Phonograph Company, promoting the commercial use of the Graphophone. His work laid the foundation for future advancements in audio technology, influencing the evolution of music and sound recording industries.

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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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Frederick Cook

American explorer and physician
Born
June 10th, 1865 159 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 75 years old

A physician and explorer, contributed to Arctic exploration. Claimed to have reached the North Pole in 1908, challenging the earlier claims of Robert Peary. Authored several books detailing expeditions and experiences in the Arctic. Participated in multiple expeditions, including a major journey to Greenland.

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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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