What Happened This Year 1941

People Who Died in 1941

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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Ramchandra Shukla

Historian and author of notable works
Born
October 4th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 57 years old

An Indian historian and author contributed significantly to the study of Indian literature and history. Participated in the historical discourse regarding Hindi literature and played a crucial role in its development. Shukla's works focused on the critical analysis of poets and playwrights, capturing the trends and movements within Hindi literature. The literary community recognized the importance of his analyses and texts, which emphasized the cultural and historical contexts of the time. His scholarship provided detailed insights that influenced future generations of historians and writers.

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Amy Johnson

Pilot and aviation pioneer
Born
July 1st, 1903 121 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 38 years old

Accomplished pilot and aviation pioneer set numerous records in long-distance flying during the 1930s. Johnson gained fame by flying solo from England to Australia in 1930, completing the journey in 19 days. She participated in various air races and expeditions, showcasing her skill and determination in the male-dominated field of aviation. Her contributions to flying and her adventurous spirit inspired many in the aviation industry. Johnson's life was tragically cut short during World War II when her plane crashed while on a mission.

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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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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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Benjamin Lee Whorf

Linguist and anthropologist, Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis
Born
April 24th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 44 years old

One individual contributed to the field of linguistics and anthropology through extensive research on language structure and its influence on thought. Emphasized the significance of language in shaping perception and conceptualization of reality. Conducted major studies on Native American languages, particularly Hopi, which led to a deeper understanding of linguistic relativity. Also worked as an engineer, applying analytical methods to various scientific inquiries, linking engineering concepts with linguistic phenomena.

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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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Mervyn S. Bennion

American captain, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
May 5th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 54 years old

Served as a captain in the United States Navy during World War II. Demonstrated exceptional leadership and bravery while serving on the USS West Virginia during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Contributed significantly to the battle effort despite severe injuries sustained during the attack. Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in action against enemy forces.

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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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