What Happened This Year 1941

People Who Died in 1941

John Lavery

Irish painter and academic renowned for portraits
Born
March 20th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1941 84 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Ireland, a painter and academic emerged as a prominent figure in the art world. Lavery studied under notable artists and became associated with the Glasgow School. Known for his portraiture, many of his works capture the essence of society's elite. His style included influences from Impressionism, blending color and light effectively. His work had a significant presence in various exhibitions, including the Royal Academy in London, which showcased several of his paintings. Also taught at prestigious institutions, cultivating the next generation of artists. Throughout his career, he received accolades for his contributions to art, leaving a lasting legacy.

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Emanuel Lasker

Chess World Champion and philosopher
Born
December 24th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1941 84 years ago — 72 years old

A significant figure in the world of chess, this individual became the World Chess Champion in 1894, holding the title for 27 years until 1921. In addition to achievements in chess, contributions to mathematics and philosophy were made, especially in the realm of game theory and logic. The individual wrote several books on chess strategy, which influenced future generations of players. Active in academia, the individual also engaged in discussions that intertwined chess with wider philosophical concepts, illustrating the depth of strategic thinking. Later years focused on teaching and promoting chess, leaving a lasting legacy in both the chess community and intellectual circles.

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James Joyce

Irish novelist and modernist writer
Born
February 2nd, 1882 143 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1941 84 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent figure in modernist literature, a groundbreaking novelist, short story writer, and poet. The most substantial works include 'Ulysses', a complex and innovative retelling of Homer's epic, set in Dublin. 'A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man' presents a semi-autobiographical account of the development of an artist through a personal and social lens. 'Dubliners', a collection of short stories, captures the life of Dublin's inhabitants with rich detail and depth. Joyce's unique narrative techniques and stream-of-consciousness style significantly influenced 20th-century literature.

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Ioannis Metaxas

Greek Prime Minister and military leader
Born
April 12th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1941 84 years ago — 69 years old

A military officer and political leader, served as the 130th Prime Minister of Greece. Played a significant role in the period leading up to and during World War II. Established a dictatorial regime and focused on national unity and military preparedness. Implemented various economic and social reforms during his tenure. Successfully led Greece during the initial stages of the Greco-Italian War, which began in October 1940, despite the ultimate occupation by Axis forces.

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Otto Strandman

Estonian lawyer, 1st Prime Minister
Born
November 30th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1941 84 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the first Prime Minister of Estonia from 1918 to 1919 during the critical period following the establishment of independence. Played a significant role in shaping the early government and legal framework of the newly independent state. Contributed to national politics and legal matters as a prominent lawyer, influencing the legal landscape of Estonia.

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Banjo Paterson

Australian poet and author of 'Waltzing Matilda'
Born
February 17th, 1864 161 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1941 84 years ago — 76 years old

Born in Australia in 1864, contributed significantly to Australian literature through poetry and prose. Published the iconic poem 'Waltzing Matilda', which became a cultural touchstone. His work often depicted the life and experiences of bush settlers and outback Australia. Engaged in journalism and also served as a war correspondent during the Second Boer War. Paterson's storytelling captured the Australian spirit and landscape, leaving a lasting legacy in the literary world.

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Frederick Banting

Physician and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 14th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1941 84 years ago — 49 years old

A Canadian physician and academic contributed significantly to the medical field. Developed insulin for diabetes treatment alongside Charles Best. Conducted key research at the University of Toronto, which led to the discovery of insulin in 1921. This breakthrough transformed diabetes management and saved countless lives.

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Ludwig Quidde

German activist and Nobel laureate
Born
March 23rd, 1858 167 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1941 84 years ago — 82 years old

An activist and politician, this individual advocated for peace and disarmament in the early 20th century. As a member of the German Parliament, significant efforts were directed towards opposing militarism and promoting international cooperation. In 1927, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for contributions to pacifism and the promotion of arbitration between nations. During the rise of National Socialism, this figure faced increasing opposition and eventually went into exile. Much of the activism focused on preventing war and fostering dialogue among nations.

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Gutzon Borglum

Sculptor of Mount Rushmore
Born
March 25th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1941 84 years ago — 73 years old

An American sculptor and academic, primarily recognized for designing and overseeing the construction of Mount Rushmore, a monumental sculpture carved into the Black Hills region of South Dakota. The iconic work features the faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt. Borglum also contributed to the creation of the Stone Mountain Memorial in Georgia and was involved in various artistic endeavors throughout his career. His work in public sculpture significantly influenced the landscape of American art and national identity. He passed away in 1941, leaving behind a legacy marked by his ambitious artistic vision.

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