What Happened This Year 1944

People Who Died in 1944

Max Brand

American journalist and author
Born
May 29th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1944 80 years ago — 50 years old

An American journalist and author, achieved recognition for creating the iconic character Dr. Kildare. Also contributed to the development of the Western genre, writing numerous novels and stories. Worked under the pen name Max Brand, produced a prolific amount of work during the 20th century and became a prominent figure in American literature. In addition to fiction, engaged in journalism, covering various topics and events.

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Arthur Quiller-Couch

English author and literary critic
Born
1863 162 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1944 80 years ago — 81 years old

This English author, poet, and critic contributed significantly to literature in the early 20th century. A prominent figure in literary circles, this individual was also a professor of English literature at the University of Cambridge. His literary output included novels, collections of poetry, and critical essays, which shaped literary criticism during the period. A notable work includes 'The Oxford Book of English Verse', published in 1900, which compiled significant English poetry and remains influential in English education. Emphasis on the quality of prose and verse made him a respected voice in literary discussions.

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George Ade

American playwright and humorist
Born
1866 159 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1944 80 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent journalist, author, and playwright, contributions primarily focused on the depiction of Midwestern life in America. Created the popular comic characters known as the 'Fables in Slang', which brought humor to social commentary. Worked extensively in various forms of entertainment, including vaudeville and theatrical productions throughout the early 20th century. Also engaged in the realms of journalism and public speaking, advocating for social issues of the period.

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Filip Mișea

Aromanian activist and politician
Born
1873 152 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1944 80 years ago — 71 years old

An Aromanian activist contributed to the cultural and political representation of the Aromanian community. Worked as a physician while advocating for Aromanian rights and welfare. Engaged in political activities that promoted the interests of Aromanians in Romania. Participated in various initiatives aimed at improving social conditions for minority groups within the country.

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Christian Wirth

German SS officer and concentration camp leader
Born
November 24th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1944 80 years ago — 58 years old

Served as an SS officer during World War II, leading the construction and administration of several concentration camps. Played a pivotal role in implementing the Nazi regime's policies of extermination. Principal architect behind the gas chambers in camps such as Sobibor and Belzec, contributing to the mass murder of thousands. Participated in the Holocaust's systematic execution of Jews and others deemed undesirable by the Nazi government.

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Willem Jacob van Stockum

Mathematician and academic in topology
Born
November 20th, 1910 114 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1944 80 years ago — 33 years old

Specialized in mathematics with significant contributions to topology. Developed theories related to the topology of surfaces. Served as a professor at several institutions, influencing mathematical education and research. Contributed to the development of applied mathematics methods during World War II. Passed away in 1944, leaving behind a legacy in mathematical thought.

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Erich Marcks

German general during World War II
Born
June 6th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1944 80 years ago — 53 years old

Served as a general in the German Army during World War II. Held the position of senior commander in various military campaigns. Played a significant role during the invasion of Poland and the Battle of France. Commanded the 16th Army on the Eastern Front, where operations took place until the summer of 1944. Died while in active service.

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George Stinney

Wrongfully Convicted Teenager
Born
1929 96 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1944 80 years ago — 15 years old

At the age of 14, a teenager became the youngest person executed in the United States in the 20th century. Convicted in 1944 for the murder of two young girls, the trial was marred by substantial evidence of inadequate legal representation and systemic racial bias. The execution was carried out by electric chair in South Carolina, and it drew national attention and scrutiny. For decades, this case highlighted issues related to wrongful convictions and racial injustice in the American legal system. In 2014, a judge vacated the conviction, citing the lack of due process during the original trial.

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Marc Bloch

Historian and author of 'The Historian's Craft'
Born
July 6th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1944 80 years ago — 57 years old

A French historian and academic, contributed significantly to the field of history through rigorous methodology and critical analysis. Co-founded the Annales School, which emphasized interdisciplinary approaches and social history. Published 'The Historian's Craft,' which outlined the principles of historical research and writing. His works often focused on medieval history and the social aspects of historical events. During World War II, actively participated in the French Resistance against Nazi occupation. Captured by German forces, executed in 1944 due to his resistance activities.

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