What Happened This Year 1940

People Who Died in 1940

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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Walter Kollo

Composer and conductor of operettas
Born
January 28th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 62 years old

Born in Germany, the individual was a prominent composer and conductor primarily known for contributions to the genre of operetta. The career included the creation of many successful works during the early 20th century. Significant achievements occurred within the realm of musical theatre, with a focus on light operas that captured the attention of audiences across Europe. Major compositions blended wit and melody, establishing a distinctive style that appealed to the tastes of the era. Some of the works reached great popularity, enhancing the operetta's reputation.

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Hermann-Paul

Painter and illustrator of France
Born
December 27th, 1864 160 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1864, this French painter and illustrator specialized in using vivid colors and expressive forms. His works often depicted landscapes and scenes from everyday life. Active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, he contributed significantly to the artistic landscape of that era. His distinctive style caught the attention of art enthusiasts and he participated in exhibitions throughout France, showcasing his individual perspective on impressionism. The artist's illustrations were particularly well-received, complementing literary works and enhancing their visual appeal.

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John Matthew Moore

American politician, Governor of Virginia
Born
November 18th, 1862 162 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 78 years old

Elected as the 49th Governor of Virginia, served from 1926 to 1930. Focused on various reforms during tenure. Played a significant role in the development of Virginia's infrastructure and educational system. Was involved in the Democratic Party's organization within the state.

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Harriot Stanton Blatch

Suffragist and women's rights organizer
Born
January 20th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 84 years old

Played a significant role in the women's suffrage movement in the United States. Established the Women's Political Union in 1909, which focused on mobilizing women to advocate for voting rights. Participated in various protests and demonstrations, including the 1913 Woman Suffrage Procession in Washington, D.C. Collaborated with other activists and organizations, promoting education and political engagement among women.

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Vítězslava Kaprálová

Czech composer and conductor
Born
January 24th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 25 years old

A prominent composer and conductor emerged from Czechoslovakia. Studied at the Prague Conservatory and had works performed by reputable orchestras. Conducted orchestras, including the Czech Philharmonic. Contributed to classical music, with compositions that spanned various genres, including symphonic and choral works. Received recognition for innovative compositions during a period marked by the influence of Czech folk music.

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Tomás Carrasquilla

Colombian author and novelist
Born
January 17th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 82 years old

An influential Colombian author, this individual played a vital role in Colombian literature during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His works often depicted the lives and struggles of people in rural Colombia. The author created a distinctive literary style that blended realism with local folklore. Among the prominent novels are 'La casa de las dos palmas' and 'Los ojos de los pobres,' which reflect social issues and the essence of Colombian culture. Contributions to literature earned recognition as a precursor to modern literature in Colombia, influencing future generations of writers.

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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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Gunnar Asplund

Architect, designed Stockholm Public Library
Born
September 22nd, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent Swedish architect and academic, contributed significantly to the field of architecture in the early 20th century. Designed the Stockholm Public Library, which became a hallmark of functionalist architecture. Engaged in various architectural competitions, often blending modernism with classical elements. Influenced Swedish architecture through a focus on light and space in building designs. Worked on several public buildings and residential projects, leaving a lasting legacy.

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