What Happened This Year 1944

People Who Died in 1944

Fannie Barrier Williams

Educator and Civil Rights Activist
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1944 81 years ago — 89 years old

An American educator and activist, contributed significantly to education and civil rights for African Americans. Advocated for racial equality and women's rights throughout her career. Worked with organizations such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the National Federation of Afro-American Women. Delivered lectures across the United States focusing on social justice, education reform, and the rights of African Americans. Served as the first African American woman to present at a national convention of a major political party.

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René Lefebvre

French businessman and entrepreneur
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1944 81 years ago — 65 years old

Founded and developed a successful enterprise in the textile industry. Expanded operations across France and established significant market presence. Provided employment opportunities and contributed to the local economy.

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Max Jacob

French poet and author of 'The Spirit of the Poets'
Born
July 12th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1944 81 years ago — 67 years old

This individual was a prominent French poet and author associated with the early 20th century avant-garde literary movement. His works often reflected themes of spirituality and the exploration of identity. He was part of various literary circles in Paris, contributing to the Dada and Surrealist movements. Collaborations with notable artists and writers characterized his career, influencing the cultural landscape of the era. His unique style combined elements of poetry, prose, and visual art, leaving a lasting legacy in French literature. His life was cut short in a concentration camp during World War II.

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Fredy Hirsch

Athlete and Holocaust rescuer
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1944 81 years ago — 28 years old

An athlete active in the Jewish community, made significant contributions during the Holocaust by creating safe spaces and providing support to Jewish children. Worked to ensure the wellbeing of many young individuals facing perilous circumstances. His efforts were aimed at shielding children from the horrors of the Nazi regime. Eventually deported to a concentration camp, where he perished, leaving behind a legacy of courage and dedication to the welfare of others.

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Hendrik Willem van Loon

Historian and journalist, wrote 'The Story of Mankind'
Born
January 14th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1944 81 years ago — 62 years old

Born in the Netherlands, an emigrant to the United States. Held a career as a historian and journalist, gaining recognition for contributions to historical literature and education. Authored 'The Story of Mankind', which became a widely used text in schools and earned the first Newbery Medal in 1922. In addition to this work, wrote numerous articles and books covering a variety of historical subjects, effectively popularizing history for general audiences. Engaged in lectures and public speaking, including radio broadcasts, helping to communicate historical ideas to the public during formative years of the 20th century.

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William Hale Thompson

Mayor of Chicago and rancher
Born
1869 156 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1944 80 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the 41st Mayor of Chicago from 1915 to 1923. Focused on promoting infrastructure and economy during tenure. Thompson was a member of the Republican Party and opposed Prohibition, which shaped his political stance. His administration was marked by controversies and corruption allegations. Thompson's background as a rancher influenced his approach to governance and public service.

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Orde Wingate

English general and military leader
Born
February 26th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1944 80 years ago — 41 years old

This military leader served in the British Army during World War II. Wingate gained prominence through unconventional tactics and strategies, particularly in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. He played a crucial role in the Burma Campaign, where he developed the Chindit operations, which involved long-range penetration missions behind enemy lines. His leadership style emphasized mobility and surprise, influencing modern guerrilla warfare. Although controversial, his approaches contributed to the success of Allied forces in certain theatres of the war. Wingate was killed in action in 1944 during a reconnaissance mission in Burma.

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Stephen Leacock

Political Scientist and Author
Born
December 30th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1944 80 years ago — 74 years old

An English-Canadian political scientist and author excelled in humor and satire. Best recognized for contributions to Canadian literature, the individual authored several influential works, including 'Sunshine Sketches of a Little Town' and 'Arcadian Adventures with the Idle Rich.' Lectured at McGill University, focusing on political economy and history. Played a significant role in the popularization of humor as a literary genre in Canada. Held the position of president of the Canadian Authors Association and was a founding member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts.

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Mineichi Koga

Japanese admiral during WWII
Born
1885 140 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1944 80 years ago — 59 years old

Served as an admiral in the Imperial Japanese Navy during World War II. Koga played a significant role in various naval operations in the Pacific theater. Promoted to commander of the Combined Fleet in 1944, Koga oversaw critical naval engagements as the war progressed. His strategies were instrumental during the Battle of Midway and other key operations. Koga died in a plane crash while in command, marking the end of his military contributions.

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