What Happened This Year 1942

People Who Died in 1942

Edna May Oliver

American actress in 'The Cat and the Canary'
Born
November 9th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1942 82 years ago — 59 years old

This actress gained recognition in the early 20th century for her work in film and theater. A graduate of the New York School of Dramatic Art, she began her career on stage before transitioning to silent films. The actress's career flourished with the advent of sound films, where her distinctive voice and comedic timing earned her roles in various productions. Significant performances included roles in 'The Cat and the Canary' and 'The Adventures of Marco Polo'. Her contributions to film and theater have left a lasting influence on the entertainment industry.

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Charles Courtney Curran

American painter, notable for portraits
Born
1861 164 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1942 82 years ago — 81 years old

An American painter specialized in landscapes and portraits. Inspired by the Impressionist movement, focused on capturing light and color effects in his works. Became a prominent member of the National Academy of Design. Exhibited widely across the United States and Europe, gaining recognition for both his style and technique. Served as an art instructor, influencing a generation of artists. Continued to create art until death in 1942.

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Daniel J. Callaghan

American admiral, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
July 26th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1942 82 years ago — 52 years old

This individual served in the United States Navy during World War II, achieving the rank of admiral. Engagements included significant naval battles in the Pacific Theater. Played a crucial role in the naval Battle of Guadalcanal, which was pivotal in the larger context of the war. Sacrifices made during a fierce confrontation ultimately led to the posthumous awarding of the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in the line of duty.

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Annemarie Schwarzenbach

Writer and photographer of Switzerland
Born
May 23rd, 1908 116 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1942 82 years ago — 34 years old

This Swiss author and photographer contributed significantly to literature and visual arts in the 20th century. Her literary works included novels, essays, and travel writings, often exploring themes of identity and displacement. As a photographer, captured striking imagery that documented the landscapes and cultures encountered during her travels. Engaged actively with contemporary European avant-garde movements and had relationships with notable cultural figures of the time. Her life was marked by a struggle with personal challenges, including addiction, which ultimately led to her untimely death in 1942.

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Bruno Schulz

Ukrainian-Polish author and painter
Born
July 12th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1942 82 years ago — 50 years old

This individual was an influential author and painter active in the early 20th century. His literary works, particularly the short story collections 'The Street of Crocodiles' and 'Sanatorium Under the Sign of the Hourglass', exhibit a blend of surreal imagery and rich, evocative language. The stories reflect the complexities of life in a small town and personal experiences during a tumultuous period in history. As a painter, this individual also contributed to the modernist movement, with artworks that complement the themes present in his writings. His contributions to literature and art have been studied and appreciated long after his death.

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Count Leopold Berchtold

Austrian-Hungarian diplomat, Joint Foreign Minister
Born
April 18th, 1863 161 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1942 82 years ago — 79 years old

Served as the Joint Foreign Minister of Austria-Hungary during a pivotal time leading up to World War I. Played a significant role in the diplomatic maneuvers that followed the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Was involved in shaping the foreign policy of Austria-Hungary and had a critical role in the tensions that escalated into the war. Advocated for a hardline response to Serbia and influenced the decisions made by the Austro-Hungarian government.

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J. B. M. Hertzog

South African politician and Prime Minister
Born
1866 159 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1942 82 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the third Prime Minister of South Africa from 1924 to 1939. During the tenure, implemented policies promoting Afrikaner nationalism and established the National Party's dominance in South African politics. Played a significant role in the country's transition to a republic and the establishment of apartheid policies. After leaving office, remained influential in South African politics until death.

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Ron Middleton

Australian Bomber Pilot, VC Recipient
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1942 82 years ago — 26 years old

Served as a bomber pilot during World War II. Attained the Victoria Cross for gallantry in action. Demonstrated exceptional bravery during a dangerous mission against enemy forces. His actions contributed to significant military efforts and sacrifices made during the war.

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Boyd Wagner

Colonel and pilot of WWII era
Born
October 26th, 1916 108 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1942 82 years ago — 26 years old

Born in 1916, a colonel and pilot served in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Participated in several significant aerial campaigns in the Pacific Theater. After the war, continued a career in military aviation, contributing to various training programs and operational strategies. Retired from active duty, remained involved in aviation as a civilian, imparting knowledge and experience to future generations of pilots.

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