What Happened This Year 1944

People Who Died in 1944

Albrecht Mertz von Quirnheim

German colonel in World War II
Born
March 25th, 1905 120 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 39 years old

Served as a colonel in the German Army during World War II, Mertz von Quirnheim played a significant role in military operations and strategy. His career was marked by his involvement in key battles and his efforts to navigate the complexities of wartime command. He was involved in the planning of the July 20 plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler, reflecting his opposition to the Nazi regime. Following the failure of the assassination attempt, he faced severe consequences.

Continue Reading

George David Birkhoff

American mathematician and dynamical system pioneer
Born
March 21st, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 60 years old

Contributions included significant advancements in mathematics, particularly in the field of dynamical systems and topology. Birkhoff developed the theory of ergodic processes and the Birkhoff theorem, which has applications in various scientific disciplines. The mathematician served as a professor at Harvard University and authored influential works, including 'Dynamical Systems' and ' lattice theory'. His work laid foundational principles that influenced later developments in mathematics and the physical sciences.

Continue Reading

E. O. Plauen

German cartoonist and illustrator
Born
March 18th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent cartoonist and illustrator from Germany, E. O. Plauen created works that reflected social and political themes of his time. The character 'Vater und Sohn' became iconic, featuring a father and son in humorous yet poignant situations. This comic strip garnered widespread recognition and has been translated into multiple languages, continuing to engage audiences across generations. Plauen's illustrations were characterized by their simple yet expressive style, making complex themes accessible to a broad audience. His work remains a significant part of German cartooning history.

Continue Reading

Shirō Takasu

Japanese admiral and naval officer
Born
October 27th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 60 years old

Served in the Imperial Japanese Navy, played a significant role in naval operations during World War II. Commanded the 1st Air Fleet and participated in key battles. Contributed to Japan's strategy in the Pacific Theater.

Continue Reading

Walter Oesau

German colonel and pilot in WWII
Born
June 28th, 1913 112 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 31 years old

Born in 1913, a prominent figure in the Luftwaffe during World War II, contributing to aerial combat as a skilled pilot and commanding officer. Oesau achieved significant success in air battles, demonstrating tactical proficiency and bravery. His career included leading squadrons and engaging in numerous combat missions, which garnered recognition within military circles. As a colonel, he held important command positions and was involved in operations that defined aerial warfare strategies of the time.

Continue Reading

Giovanni Gentile

Italian philosopher and educator
Born
May 30th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 69 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of idealist philosophy in Italy during the early 20th century. Served as the Minister of Education and promoted the reform of the education system, emphasizing the importance of the state in education. Authored several works on philosophy, including 'The Theory of Mind as Pure Act', which laid the foundation for his philosophical ideology known as Actual Idealism. Engaged in the philosophical debates of his time, influencing both contemporaries and later thinkers.

Continue Reading

Friedrich Werner von der Schulenburg

German diplomat and political figure
Born
November 20th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 69 years old

Served as a diplomat in the early 20th century, playing significant roles in various diplomatic positions during a turbulent period in German history. Engaged in negotiations and dialogue with other nations, notably during the Weimar Republic and World War II. Worked extensively in diplomatic circles, representing German interests abroad and navigating the complexities of international relations. Involved in the opposition against Hitler's regime and contributed to efforts aimed at creating peace in Europe. His diplomatic career was marked by attempts to balance national interests with the pursuit of broader cooperation.

Continue Reading

Ramón Castillo

Argentine politician and president
Born
November 20th, 1873 151 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the 21st President of Argentina from 1942 to 1943. Held various political positions throughout a long career, including serving as a senator and minister. His presidency occurred during a period of significant political and economic challenges. Played a key role in the development of policies aimed at fostering economic growth and stability in Argentina.

Continue Reading

Liviu Rebreanu

Romanian author and playwright
Born
November 27th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 59 years old

An influential Romanian author and playwright contributed significantly to Romanian literature. Renowned for the novel 'Ion', which explores themes of land ownership and social issues in rural Romania, this work remains one of the cornerstones of Romanian fiction. Rebreanu also wrote plays that addressed contemporary societal issues, showcasing the struggles of ordinary people. His literary style introduced realism to Romanian literature, focusing on psychological depth and moral dilemmas. The author was also engaged in journalism, publishing works that reflected his political views and debates of the time.

Continue Reading