What Happened This Year 1940

People Who Died in 1940

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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Janusz Kusociński

Polish runner and Olympic champion
Born
January 15th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 33 years old

A prominent Polish middle-distance runner and soldier, achieved notable success in athletics during the 1930s. Competed in the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, securing a gold medal in the 10,000 meters event. Dominated national competitions, setting records and winning multiple titles. Contributed to Polish athletics with several noteworthy performances at international events. His career was interrupted by World War II, during which he served in the Polish military.

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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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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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Edward LeSaint

Actor and director, The Winning of Barbara Worth
Born
December 13th, 1870 154 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 70 years old

An American actor and director contributed significantly to early cinema. Career spanned from the silent film era to the advent of sound films, showcasing a range of talent both in front of and behind the camera. Directed and starred in several productions, leaving a mark on the film industry during the early 20th century. Gained recognition for directorial work and acting performances in multiple films.

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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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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 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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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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