What Happened This Year 1940

People Who Died in 1940

Song Zheyuan

Chinese general during the Second Sino-Japanese War
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1940 84 years ago — 55 years old

A Chinese general played a significant role in military strategies during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Graduated from the Baoding Military Academy, focused on defending North China from Japanese invasion. Commanded troops in major battles and was involved in the Battle of Taiyuan, where faced significant challenges against Japanese forces. Instrumental in coordinating efforts with Nationalist troops and resisting occupying forces. Subsequently appointed to various key military positions until the end of his service in 1939. Passed away in 1940.

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Charles Freer Andrews

English-Indian priest and educator
Born
1871 154 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1940 84 years ago — 69 years old

A priest and educator contributed to the Indian independence movement. Served as a missionary, promoting social reform and education. Established schools and advocated for the rights of marginalized communities. Worked closely with key figures in Indian politics, fostering goodwill between England and India. Engaged with Mahatma Gandhi and supported the nonviolent struggle for independence. His efforts were instrumental in promoting a better understanding of Indian culture in England.

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Jay O'Brien

American bobsledder and Olympian
Born
1883 142 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1940 84 years ago — 57 years old

Competed in bobsled events during the 1932 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, representing the United States. Contributed to the early development of the sport in America. Achieved notable recognition in bobsledding during the 1930s.

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Robert Maillart

Swiss civil engineer, concrete bridge designer
Born
February 6th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1940 84 years ago — 68 years old

Developed innovative designs for reinforced concrete structures, particularly bridges. Created the Salginatobel Bridge in 1929, which earned recognition for its pioneering use of reinforced concrete. Focused on aesthetic considerations alongside structural functionality. Influenced modern bridge engineering through techniques that emphasized simplicity and elegance.

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Mrs Patrick Campbell

English actress, notable stage performer
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1940 84 years ago — 75 years old

An accomplished English actress, this individual gained prominence during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Notable performances included roles in plays such as George Bernard Shaw's 'Pygmalion' and 'The Second Mrs. Tanqueray' by Arthur Wing Pinero. This actress was recognized for a commanding presence on stage and contributed significantly to the London theater scene. She collaborated with several prominent playwrights of her time and gained respect for her interpretations of complex characters.

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Jack McNeela

Irish Republican hunger striker
Died
April 19th, 1940 84 years ago — None years old

A prominent Irish Republican, engaged in activism against British rule in Ireland. Participated in the struggle for independence and was imprisoned due to political activities. McNeela took part in a hunger strike while incarcerated, expressing resistance to the conditions faced by political prisoners. The hunger strike lasted several weeks, drawing attention to the plight of imprisoned Republicans. On April 19, 1940, McNeela died due to the effects of the hunger strike, underscoring the tensions in Ireland during that period.

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Carl Bosch

German chemist and engineer, Nobel laureate
Born
August 27th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1940 84 years ago — 65 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry and engineering. Developed the Haber-Bosch process for synthesizing ammonia from nitrogen and hydrogen, which revolutionized agricultural practices by facilitating the production of fertilizers. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1931 for this work. Contributed to the development of high-pressure technology and advancements in chemical manufacturing.

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Ernest Joyce

English explorer known for polar expeditions
Born
1875 150 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1940 84 years ago — 65 years old

Involved in early 20th-century explorations, engaged in significant polar expeditions, contributing to the understanding of Antarctic regions. Participated in the British Antarctic Expedition (1910-1913) under Robert Falcon Scott, aiding in scientific research and map-making. Later, partook in the 1914-1917 Nimrod Expedition, which sought to explore the Antarctic and achieve significant geographical discoveries. Joyce's experiences and observations during these explorations provided valuable insights into the challenges of polar exploration.

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George Lansbury

British politician and Labour leader
Born
1859 166 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1940 84 years ago — 81 years old

An English journalist and politician, played a significant role in the Labour Party during the early 20th century. Served as the leader of the Labour Party from 1932 to 1935 and was an advocate for various social causes including women's rights and housing reform. Elected as a Member of Parliament for the first time in 1910 and represented several constituencies over the years. Established a strong connection with the working class and emphasized social justice throughout his political career. Pushed for policies that aimed to improve the living conditions of the poor and was influential in the development of the party's platform.

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