What Happened This Year 1941

People Who Died in 1941

Günther Prien

German U-boat commander during WWII
Born
January 16th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 33 years old

Led U-47, a German submarine, during World War II. Achieved fame for sinking the British battleship HMS Royal Oak in October 1939 during a daring raid in Scapa Flow. Prien's exploits contributed to the early successes of the Kriegsmarine in the Atlantic theater. Commanded multiple successful patrols in the North Atlantic, further solidifying reputation as a skilled U-boat commander.

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David Emmanuel

Mathematician and academic recognized for research
Born
January 31st, 1854 171 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Romania, a mathematician and academic contributed significantly to the field of mathematics. Worked on number theory and algebraic structures, publishing several research papers that advanced the understanding of mathematical concepts. Held academic positions at various institutions, influencing many students and aspiring mathematicians throughout an extensive career. His research laid groundwork for future developments in the discipline.

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Edwin Stanton Porter

Film director of 'The Great Train Robbery'
Born
April 21st, 1870 154 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 71 years old

A pivotal figure in early cinema, directed and produced several influential silent films. Gained recognition primarily for 'The Great Train Robbery' in 1903, which is considered one of the first narrative films in history. Worked with Thomas Edison’s studio, contributing to the production of various early short films and leveraging innovative techniques that laid groundwork for modern filmmaking. Later established his own production company and continued to shape the industry.

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Alva B. Adams

American politician and lawyer
Born
October 29th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1879, this individual served as a U.S. Senator from Colorado. The politician held office during key periods, including terms from 1923 to 1925 and 1933 to 1937. A member of the Democratic Party, this person focused on legislation impacting the state and national interests. Prior to the Senate, this individual served in the Colorado House of Representatives and as the 15th Governor of Colorado. Contributed to various initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure and education within the state during the early to mid-20th century.

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Ruby Laffoon

American politician, 43rd Governor of Kentucky
Born
January 15th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 72 years old

A lawyer and politician served as the 43rd Governor of Kentucky from 1931 to 1935. During the tenure, focused on economic development and infrastructure improvements in the state. His administration faced the challenges of the Great Depression, implementing policies aimed at relief and recovery for Kentucky's citizens.

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Christian Sinding

Norwegian composer and pianist
Born
January 11th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1856 in Norway, a prominent composer and pianist emerged, contributing significantly to classical music. Studied at the Royal Conservatory in Leipzig and gained acclaim during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Composed numerous works, including orchestral pieces, chamber music, and songs. The most recognized composition is the 'Rustle of Spring,' a piano piece that remains popular in concert repertoire. His music reflects the influence of the late Romantic style, characterized by rich harmonies and melodic intricacies. The career spanned several active decades, during which many compositions were performed across Europe.

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Henry Burr

Canadian singer and radio performer
Born
January 15th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 59 years old

Born in Canada in 1882, this individual was a prominent singer and radio performer during the early 20th century. Often associated with the popularization of traditional songs and ballads, recordings from this artist contributed significantly to the music scene of the era. In addition to singing, he worked as a producer, helping to shape the emerging radio landscape. His contributions included performance in various musical styles, appealing to a wide audience and ensuring sustained popularity.

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Wilhelm Kienzl

Austrian pianist and composer, 'Es war ein einmal'
Born
January 17th, 1857 168 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1857, a prominent Austrian pianist, composer, and conductor, contributed significantly to the late Romantic music style. Composed operas, orchestral works, and chamber music, with notable works including the opera 'Es war ein einmal' which received acclaim in the 20th century. Studied at the Vienna Conservatory and later pursued a successful performance career. Kienzl held conducting positions in various theaters, including the Burgtheater in Vienna, where his arrangements gained recognition. His work blended traditional Austrian musical elements with innovative techniques, influencing subsequent generations of composers.

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Eduard Zintl

German Chemist and Zintl Phase Researcher
Born
January 21st, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 43 years old

A chemist contributed significantly to the field of solid-state chemistry, particularly with Zintl phases. Zintl conducted research on the properties and structures of intermetallic compounds. The discovery of Zintl phases has played a crucial role in the understanding of complex metallic compounds and materials science.

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