What Happened This Year 1940

People Who Died in 1940

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.

Continue Reading

Henri Desgrange

Cyclist and race director of Tour de France
Born
January 31st, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1865, a French cyclist and journalist, played a key role in the establishment of competitive cycling in France. Founded the Tour de France in 1903, which became the premier cycling event globally. Served as the event's first director, overseeing its early development and promoting the growing popularity of cycling as a sport. Worked as editor for the cycling magazine L'Auto, helping to drive interest in road racing and bicycling culture in France. Contributed to modern cycling's organizational structure and provided a platform for future athletes.

Continue Reading

Prince Christopher of Greece and Denmark

Prince and Military Officer
Born
August 10th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 52 years old

Born in 1888, this royal served in various military capacities, holding the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Greek Army. Additionally, he engaged in diplomatic efforts during a tumultuous period in European history. The prince was a key figure in family connections across royal houses in Europe, maintaining ties that were significant during both World Wars. His life encapsulated the complexities of European nobility during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Józef Marcinkiewicz

Polish soldier and mathematician
Born
March 30th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 30 years old

A soldier and mathematician, contributed to the field of mathematics through research and teaching. Involved in military activities during World War II, participating in the defense of Poland. Later became an academic, focusing on various mathematical theories, particularly in functional analysis and topology. Marcinkiewicz's work was influential in the development of certain mathematical concepts, and he is remembered for both his military and academic efforts.

Continue Reading

Paul Nizan

French philosopher and author
Born
February 7th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 35 years old

Born in 1905, a prominent French philosopher and author, contributed significantly to existentialist thought and leftist politics. His most notable work, 'Antoine Bloyé', published in 1931, explores themes of alienation and social criticism. An early member of the French Communist Party, he actively engaged in political discourse and literature. Nizan's writings often reflected a deep concern for social justice and the human condition, intertwining personal narrative with wider societal critiques. His works remain influential in contemporary philosophical and political discussions.

Continue Reading

Gyula Kellner

Hungarian Runner and Olympic Competitor
Born
April 11th, 1871 153 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 69 years old

Competed in long-distance running events during the early 20th century. Participated in the 1900 Summer Olympics held in Paris, where the modern Olympic Games were first fully international. Achieved a significant place in athletics within Hungary.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading