What Happened This Year 1944

People Who Died in 1944

Arthur Berriedale Keith

Scottish lawyer and legal scholar
Born
April 5th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent Scottish lawyer and legal scholar, contributed significantly to the understanding of Scots law. Served as a lecturer in law at several universities, and published various works, including influential texts on constitutional law. Engaged in discussions around legal reforms and was an active member of legal associations. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of legal education standards in Scotland.

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Motobu Chōki

Karateka and martial arts expert
Born
April 5th, 1870 155 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1870 in Okinawa, a pivotal figure in karate, contributed greatly to the martial arts community. Studied various fighting styles and developed a unique interpretation of traditional Okinawan karate. Promoted karate as a viable form of self-defense and physical conditioning. Formulated techniques and teachings that shaped modern karate practices. His philosophy emphasized practical application of techniques and real-world combat effectiveness.

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Nikolaos Roussen

Greek naval captain during WWII
Born
April 25th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 31 years old

Served as a naval captain during World War II, leading significant operations in the Mediterranean Sea. Commanded a fleet tasked with intercepting enemy vessels and providing support to Allied forces. Engaged in strategic naval battles that contributed to the war effort, showcasing leadership skills and maritime expertise. After the war, continued to be involved in naval affairs and supported maritime initiatives in Greece.

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Werner von Haeften

German lieutenant in World War II
Born
October 9th, 1908 116 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 36 years old

Served as a German army officer during World War II. Actively involved in the German resistance against the Nazi regime, contributed to plans to assassinate Adolf Hitler. Participated in the July 20 plot of 1944 aimed at overthrowing the government. Captured after the assassination attempt failed and executed for treason in 1944.

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Erich Salomon

News photographer and photojournalist
Born
April 28th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 58 years old

Born in Germany, a significant figure in photojournalism, documented political events and key figures in the early 20th century. Salomon introduced the use of small, concealed cameras, allowing for candid photographs in high-profile settings. His work captured notable moments, including the signing of the Treaty of Versailles and various political leaders of the time. His photographs appeared in leading publications across Europe, contributing to the visual narrative of major historical events. Salomon fled Germany due to the rise of the Nazi regime, continuing his career in the United States until his death in 1944.

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Hana Brady

Jewish-Czech Holocaust victim, child deportee
Born
May 16th, 1931 94 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 13 years old

Born in Czechoslovakia, integrated into a close-knit Jewish family. Life was disrupted with the Nazi occupation during World War II. Deported to Theresienstadt concentration camp alongside other Jewish families. Ultimately transported to Auschwitz, where perished at a young age. The story and belongings, particularly a suitcase, became symbolic of the Holocaust experience and were used in educational contexts to raise awareness about the atrocities faced.

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Max Nettlau

Historian and academic specializing in anarchism
Born
April 30th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed to the study of anarchist theory and history. Authored several works analyzing the development of anarchism and its key figures. His research spanned multiple languages and cultures, documenting the evolution of anarchist thought from its early roots to contemporary movements. Nettlau's scholarship provided a comprehensive view of the organizations and activities of anarchists across Europe and the United States.

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Marcel Rayman

Polish soldier and resistance fighter
Born
May 1st, 1923 102 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 21 years old

Born in Poland, this individual served in the Polish Army during World War II. In 1942, he joined the Polish resistance movement, fighting against Nazi occupation. After the war, the individual became involved in Jewish community activities and worked to preserve the history of Jewish resistance. The contribution to the historical narrative of Jewish fighters during the Holocaust is a significant aspect of the legacy.

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Otto Blumenthal

Mathematician; contributed to algebra
Born
July 20th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 68 years old

Born in Germany, a mathematician and academic focused on algebra and its applications. Worked extensively in the field of abstract algebra and contributed to the development of the theory of groups. Held a position at the University of Berlin, where significant research on algebraic structures and their properties took place. Influenced the educational landscape through teaching and mentoring.

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