What Happened This Year 1940
People Who Died in 1940
Billy Fiske
Served as a fighter pilot in the Royal Air Force during World War II. Initially trained as a pilot in the United States, later joined the British forces due to the urgency of the conflict. Participated in various missions, demonstrating flying skills and bravery. Fiske tragically lost his life in action, earning recognition for his service and sacrifice.
Continue ReadingWalter Chrysler
An American businessman established a significant automotive company. In 1924, founded Chrysler Corporation, which became a major player in the American automobile industry. Pioneered innovative manufacturing techniques and emphasized the importance of quality in vehicle production. Led the company through challenging economic periods, expanding its market presence across the United States. Under leadership, Chrysler introduced various successful models, contributing to the evolution of the American automobile landscape.
Continue ReadingHermann Obrecht
Born in 1882, became a prominent figure in Swiss politics during the 20th century. Represented the Socialist Party and served as a member of the Swiss Federal Council from 1934 to 1940. Focused on social policies and labor rights. Contributed to the development of welfare programs and labor regulations in Switzerland, advocating for workers' rights and social justice.
Continue ReadingErnest Thayer
Born in 1863, a poet and author achieved recognition primarily through the poem 'Casey at Bat'. The work, first published in the San Francisco Examiner in 1888, captured the spirit of American baseball and became a beloved piece of sports literature. Thayer's writings often revolved around themes of sports culture and have been celebrated for their vivid imagery and rhythmic style. In addition to poetry, he contributed to various newspapers and played a role in the literary community of his era.
Continue ReadingLeon Trotsky
A Russian revolutionary and theorist, played a key role in the Bolshevik Revolution. Served as the People's Commissar for Foreign Affairs and later as the founder and commander of the Red Army during the Russian Civil War. Advocated for permanent revolution and opposed the rise of Stalin. Exiled from the Soviet Union in 1929, continued to be an influential Marxist thinker and critic of Stalinism until his assassination in Mexico City in 1940.
Continue ReadingGerald Strickland
Served as the 4th Prime Minister of Malta from 1927 to 1932, focusing on constitutional advancements and reforms. Played a significant role in the political landscape during the British colonial period, advocating for Maltese interests. A prominent lawyer, contributed to legal and political discourse, influencing legislation and governance in Malta.
Continue ReadingOliver Lodge
An English physicist contributed significantly to the study of electromagnetism and the development of wireless communication. Developed the coherer, an early device for detecting radio waves, leading to advancements in radio technology. Served as a professor of physics at the University of Birmingham and published numerous works on electromagnetism and psychical research. Engaged in debates regarding the existence of life after death and the scientific study of paranormal phenomena.
Continue ReadingPaul Gottlieb Nipkow
Contributed to the field of television technology with the invention of the Nipkow disk, a crucial component in early mechanical televisions. Developed this device in 1884, which enabled the transmission of images by scanning them. The innovation laid foundational work for future television systems and influenced video technology development through the 20th century.
Continue ReadingPrince Jean
Born into the House of Capet, this noble held the title of Duke of Guise. He was a significant figure in French royalist circles during the early 20th century. His royal lineage traced back to important historical monarchs. Active in political movements supporting the restoration of monarchy in France, he engaged in various royalist activities and was linked with the Legitimist cause. His death occurred in 1940 amidst the tumult of World War II, a time of significant upheaval in Europe.
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