What Happened This Year 1940
People Who Died in 1940
Nikolai Yezhov
Served as a key figure in the Soviet secret police, Yezhov rose to prominence during the Great Purge initiated by Joseph Stalin. Played a crucial role in orchestrating widespread repression, leading to the arrest and execution of thousands of perceived enemies of the state. His tenure marked an intensification of state terror in the late 1930s, known for implementing harsh measures against dissent, including the extensive use of show trials. Eventually fell from favor, leading to his arrest and execution in 1940 as part of the ongoing purges.
Continue ReadingJohn Buchan
A Scottish-Canadian historian and politician served as the Governor General of Canada from 1935 until death in 1940. Buchan authored several historical and adventure novels, with a notable work being 'The Thirty-Nine Steps,' which contributed to the spy fiction genre. His career in public service included roles in the British Parliament, emphasizing loyalty to the British Empire. His tenure as Governor General was marked by his efforts to promote national unity and support for wartime contributions during World War II.
Continue ReadingEllen Day Hale
Born in 1855, this individual was a prominent American painter and author whose works often incorporated themes of nature and femininity. Studied under various esteemed artists and exhibited widely across the United States, including at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Also contributed to literature through writings that detailed artistic life and practices. She was part of the artistic community in Boston and later settled in New York, where involvement in the Women's Suffrage Movement also characterized her later years.
Continue ReadingE. F. Benson
An archaeologist and author, contributed significantly to the field of archaeology through extensive research and fieldwork. Published major scholarly works on Roman settlement in Britain. A noted writer of historical fiction, produced a series of novels that explored themes of history and culture. Engaged in both excavation projects and theoretical discussions surrounding archaeological practices.
Continue ReadingA. H. Tammsaare
An influential Estonian author, contributed significantly to Estonian literature with the novel 'Truth and Justice'. The work consists of five volumes, exploring themes of justice, morality, and the struggles of rural life in Estonia. Writings reflect the historical context of Estonia during the early 20th century and showcase the challenges faced by Estonians. Also involved in journalism and criticism, Tammsaare's literary contributions laid the groundwork for modern Estonian literature.
Continue ReadingHamlin Garland
Garland achieved recognition as a significant voice of the American Midwest through his literary works. He wrote extensively, producing novels, short stories, and essays that often depicted rural life and the struggles of ordinary people. His most notable work, 'Main-Travelled Roads,' released in 1891, illustrated the lives of farmers and rural communities. In addition to fiction, Garland contributed to literary criticism and briefly served as a historian for the state of Wisconsin. His writings often reflected realist themes, emphasizing the harsh realities faced by settlers in the Midwest.
Continue ReadingCai Yuanpei
A prominent philosopher, academic administrator, and politician, this individual played a significant role in modern Chinese education. As the president of Peking University, efforts focused on promoting academic freedom and reforming the university system in China. Engaging with Western educational practices, contributions included advocating for new cultural and educational movements in early 20th-century China, which facilitated the exchange of ideas between Eastern and Western philosophies. Additionally, involvement in political movements reflected a commitment to the modernization of Chinese society.
Continue ReadingMikhail Bulgakov
A prominent Russian novelist and playwright, he produced significant works during the Soviet era. The novel 'The Master and Margarita' is one of the key literary works of the 20th century, blending fantasy, romance, and political satire. Other notable plays include 'The Days of the Turbins', which depicts the Russian Civil War through the lens of a Ukrainian family loyal to the Tsar. His writing faced censorship and was often published posthumously, gaining acclaim for its complex narrative techniques and rich character development.
Continue ReadingSelma Lagerlöf
An influential Swedish author, produced a variety of works that combined elements of fantasy and realism. First woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1909, awarded for 'The Saga of Gösta Berling.' Other notable works include 'The Wonderful Adventures of Nils.' Also engaged in promoting education and women's rights. Contributed to Swedish cultural heritage and literary tradition.
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