What Happened This Year 1943

People Who Died in 1943

Sophie Scholl

German anti-Nazi activist and martyr
Born
May 9th, 1921 103 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1943 82 years ago — 21 years old

An activist against the Nazi regime, organized and distributed anti-war pamphlets as part of the White Rose group. Captured and executed for opposing the regime's oppressive policies. The White Rose group aimed to encourage civic courage and resistance within Germany during World War II.

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Christoph Probst

German activist and member of the White Rose
Born
1919 106 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1943 82 years ago — 24 years old

A key member of the White Rose resistance group, played a role in challenging the Nazi regime through anti-war pamphlets. Probst was a medical student and contributed to the group's efforts to expose the atrocities committed by the Nazis. Arrested in 1943, faced trial, and executed shortly thereafter. The White Rose is remembered for its courage in speaking out against totalitarianism.

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Hans Scholl

German anti-Nazi resistance activist
Born
September 22nd, 1918 106 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1943 82 years ago — 24 years old

A key member of the White Rose resistance group during World War II. Advocated against the Nazi regime through leaflets that called for non-violent resistance and raised awareness about the atrocities committed by the government. Actively engaged in disseminating pamphlets that urged citizens to oppose the oppressive regime. Arrested by the Gestapo in 1943 and executed shortly thereafter.

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Theodor Eicke

German general and concentration camp commander
Born
October 17th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1943 82 years ago — 50 years old

A high-ranking officer in the German Army, played a significant role in the establishment and operation of the SS and police within Nazi Germany. Eicke became the commandant of the Dachau concentration camp, where he implemented harsh policies that served as a model for other camps. Later, he led the 3rd SS Panzer Division Totenkopf during World War II, which gained notoriety for its actions on the Eastern Front. Eicke's leadership in military operations and his involvement in the local administration of concentration camps marked key moments in the history of the Nazi regime.

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Kostis Palamas

Greek poet and playwright of 'The Kiss'
Born
January 13th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1943 82 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1859, this individual contributed significantly to Greek literature through poetry and drama. His work often explored themes of national identity and cultural issues. He served as a director of the Greek National Theatre and was involved in the promotion of modern Greek literature. His most celebrated poem, 'The Kiss' (Το Φιλί), is noteworthy for its depth and emotional resonance. The poet also played a crucial role in the establishment of the modern Greek literary tradition, influencing generations of writers and thinkers.

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Alexandre Yersin

Physician and bacteriologist, discovered plague
Born
1863 162 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1943 82 years ago — 80 years old

A physician and bacteriologist specialized in infectious diseases. Conducted research in bacteriology and made significant contributions to the understanding of various pathogens. Is recognized for isolating the plague bacillus, Yersinia pestis, during an epidemic in Hong Kong in 1894. Worked extensively in Indochina, where research focused on tropical diseases. Founded the Pasteur Institute in Nha Trang, contributing to vaccine development and public health.

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Gisela Januszewska

Jewish-Austrian physician and surgeon
Born
January 22nd, 1867 158 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1943 82 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1867, a physician and surgeon recognized for contributions to the medical field during a time of significant societal challenges. Completed medical education and began practice in Austria, overcoming barriers faced by women in medicine. Specialized in gynecology and obstetrics, providing care and advancing female health issues. Engaged in research and education, encouraging more women to pursue medical careers. Additionally, faced persecution due to socio-political circumstances of the era, illustrating resilience in the profession until eventual migration.

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Cipto Mangunkusumo

Indonesian independence leader
Born
1886 139 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1943 82 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent figure in Indonesia's struggle for independence, contributed to the movement against Dutch colonial rule. Influenced political thought and organized various efforts towards achieving self-governance. Actively participated in the establishment of the Indonesian National Party and worked to unite different factions for a common cause. Engaged in journalism, writing articles advocating for national rights and independence. His leadership role emphasized the importance of education and social awareness in mobilizing the masses for independence.

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Otto Freundlich

German painter and sculptor
Born
July 10th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1943 82 years ago — 64 years old

This individual was a German painter and sculptor associated with the early 20th-century art movements, particularly Constructivism and Expressionism. Active in the Parisian art scene, he contributed to the development of modern abstract art. His work often merged elements of spirituality with geometric forms, showcasing a unique synthesis of abstraction and figurative representation. The rising political tensions in Europe led to exile from Germany, during which he continued to produce art. Tragically, persecution during World War II resulting from the Nazi regime's anti-Semitic policies culminated in his death in a concentration camp.

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