What Happened This Year 1944

People Who Died in 1944

Glenn Miller

Trombonist and big band leader
Born
March 1st, 1904 121 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1944 80 years ago — 40 years old

A prominent trombonist, composer, and bandleader, this individual was instrumental in the evolution of big band music in the 1930s and 1940s. He formed the Glenn Miller Orchestra, which gained immense popularity for its distinctive sound that blended jazz and swing music. The orchestra's recordings, particularly 'In the Mood' and 'Moonlight Serenade', became classics of the era. His work during World War II included forming and leading the Army Air Forces Band, which played a significant role in boosting troop morale. The transformation of the orchestra and its significant contributions to the music scene marked a pivotal point in the history of American music.

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Betsie ten Boom

Holocaust victim and camp survivor
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1944 80 years ago — 59 years old

A member of the ten Boom family, played a significant role in hiding Jewish people during the Holocaust in the Netherlands. Assisted in the creation of a secret room in the family's watch shop in Haarlem, which sheltered those escaping Nazi persecution. Captured in 1944, transported to Ravensbrück concentration camp, where she remained until her death in 1944. Despite the harsh conditions, she exhibited remarkable strength and compassion, providing comfort to fellow prisoners.

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Abbas II of Egypt

Last Sultan of Egypt and Sudan
Born
July 14th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1944 80 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the last Sultan of Egypt and Sudan from 1892 until 1914. His reign occurred during a time of increasing British influence and control over Egypt, leading to the establishment of the protectorate in 1914. Faced challenges surrounding nationalistic movements, health crises, and the growing discontent with colonial rule. Abdicated in 1914 following the British occupation during World War I. Lived in exile in Europe after abdication.

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Rudolph Karstadt

German businessman and retailer
Born
1856 169 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1944 80 years ago — 88 years old

Founded the Karstadt department store chain in Germany, establishing a significant presence in the retail sector. Expanded operations throughout Germany, creating a model for modern department stores. Played a key role in the retail landscape during the early 20th century, emphasizing customer service and a wide range of merchandise. Contributed to the growth of numerous retail locations before the challenges of World War II impacted operations.

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Harry Langdon

American actor and director of silent films
Born
June 15th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1944 80 years ago — 60 years old

Started in vaudeville, progressing to silent films, contributed to the evolution of comedy in cinema. Worked with notable figures such as Frank Capra. Directed and starred in several successful short films. Transitioned to sound films but faced challenges adapting to the new medium. Continued to work in film and television into the later years.

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George Steer

Journalist and war correspondent
Born
1909 116 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1944 80 years ago — 35 years old

Journalist and author with roots in South Africa and England covered significant events in the 20th century. Gained prominence during the Spanish Civil War, reporting on the conflict's critical moments. Worked for prominent publications, including The Times, and provided detailed accounts of the war. Authored several works, providing insights into warfare and its implications on society. Died in 1944 while serving as a war correspondent in World War II.

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Romain Rolland

French author and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
January 29th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1944 80 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent literary figure, contributed significantly to literature through works that encompass plays, novels, and essays. Achieved widespread recognition for the novel 'Jean-Christophe', which depicted the life of a composer in a tumultuous era. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1915 for writings that expressed humanism and a belief in the goodness of humanity amid the backdrop of World War I. Engaged in political and social issues through literature and supported various causes including peace.

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Paul Poiret

Fashion designer and style innovator
Born
April 20th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent French fashion designer, revolutionized women’s fashion in the early 20th century. Introduced the 'liberated woman' style, moving away from the corseted silhouette. Founded the House of Poiret, which became influential in introducing more relaxed and artistic designs. Created iconic garments such as the 'lampshade' dress and the 'harem' pants. Renowned for bold use of color and exotic influences, Poiret’s designs were celebrated for their elegance and innovation. His work laid the groundwork for modern fashion design, influencing future generations of designers.

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Prafulla Chandra Ray

Chemist and academic, founder of Bengal Chemicals
Born
August 2nd, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 83 years old

Prafulla Chandra Ray contributed significantly to the field of chemistry in India. A prominent academic, he established Bengal Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals, the first pharmaceutical company in India. Ray's research primarily focused on the chemistry of arsenic and nitrogen compounds. He played a key role in the promotion of chemical education in India and was involved with several educational institutions. His dedication to fostering chemistry as a rigorous academic discipline was instrumental in shaping the future of chemical sciences in the country.

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