What Happened This Year 1941

People Who Died in 1941

Stanley Graham

New Zealand mass murderer
Born
November 12th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1941 85 years ago — 41 years old

Born in New Zealand, a significant crime occurred in 1941 when a series of murders were committed, leading to a notable manhunt. Graham's actions stemmed from a conflict related to land disputes, resulting in the deaths of multiple individuals. This violent event shocked the local community and garnered national attention. Following the killings, a major police investigation was launched, and Graham was eventually apprehended. The case remains one of the most infamous in New Zealand's history, illustrating the impact of personal and social conflicts on extreme behavior.

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Minakata Kumagusu

Biologist and naturalist, notable ethnologist
Born
May 18th, 1867 158 years ago
Died
1941 85 years ago — 74 years old

Born in Japan, contributed significantly to biology, natural history, and ethnology. Conducted pioneering research on fungi and advocated for the understanding of ecological systems. Published various works, emphasizing the importance of environmental preservation and cultural understanding. Fostering connections between nature and culture, the insect collections and studies enriched both academic and public knowledge. Engaged in the study of local lore, blending scientific inquiry with traditional knowledge.

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Lajos Vajda

Hungarian painter and illustrator of modern art
Born
August 6th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1941 85 years ago — 33 years old

Born in Hungary, a significant painter and illustrator emerged in the early 20th century. Primarily associated with modernist movements, created works that encapsulated surreal themes and vivid colors. Engaged with various artistic trends, blending influences from expressionism and surrealism. Contributed extensively to the Hungarian and international art scenes. Despite the challenges faced during the political upheavals of the time, continued to develop a unique style. His contribution to the art community gained recognition posthumously, establishing a lasting legacy in modern art.

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Lucien Mérignac

French fencer and Olympic champion
Born
October 5th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
1941 85 years ago — 68 years old

Competed in the men's individual foil event at the 1900 Summer Olympics. Secured a gold medal in the 1900 Paris Olympics, marking a significant achievement in the sport of fencing. Contributed to the development of French fencing techniques and tradition.

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Ernest Everett Just

American biologist and academic
Born
August 14th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1941 85 years ago — 58 years old

Contributions to the field of biology, particularly in cell biology and embryology, defined a significant portion of early 20th-century research. Studied at Dartmouth College and later obtained a doctorate from the University of Chicago. Research focused on the development of marine organisms, including the fertilization and development of eggs. Pioneered work on the role of the nucleus and the cytoplasm in the embryonic development process. Served as a professor and had a notable influence on the education of African American scientists and students.

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Chu Berry

American saxophonist and composer
Born
September 13th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
1941 85 years ago — 33 years old

An influential American saxophonist, active primarily during the 1930s and 1940s. Played a significant role in shaping the sound of jazz, particularly through tenor saxophone performances. Collaborated with notable artists and bands of the era, including Cab Calloway and Fletcher Henderson. Featured prominently on various recording sessions that contributed to the jazz genre's development. Berry's work has been recognized for its technical proficiency and emotive style.

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Elfriede Wever

German Olympic runner, 1928 bronze medalist
Born
July 6th, 1900 125 years ago
Died
1941 85 years ago — 41 years old

Competed in the 1928 Amsterdam Olympic Games, finishing third in the 800 meters event. Part of the German national athletics team, contributed to the development of women's track events in the early 20th century. Participated in various national competitions, earning recognition within the sport.

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Mervyn S. Bennion

American captain, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
May 5th, 1887 138 years ago
Died
1941 85 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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Benjamin Lee Whorf

Linguist and anthropologist, Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis
Born
April 24th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1941 85 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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