What Happened This Year 1949

People Who Died in 1949

Friedrich Bergius

German chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
October 11th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1949 75 years ago — 64 years old

An accomplished chemist contributed significantly to the development of high-pressure chemistry. Pioneered the Bergius process for the hydrogenation of coal, which transformed coal into liquid hydrocarbons. Earned the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1931 for innovations in chemical compounds. Held academic positions and contributed to the advancement of chemical research and education in Germany. Participated in research that facilitated the industrial production of synthetic fuels.

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Erich Zeigner

Prime Minister of Saxony
Born
1886 139 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1949 75 years ago — 63 years old

Served as Prime Minister of Saxony during a turbulent period in German history. Involved in the establishment of policies aimed at social reforms in the late Weimar Republic. Became a member of the Socialist Unity Party after World War II and contributed to the reconstruction of East Germany. His tenure included dealing with the challenges posed by post-war conditions and the transition into a communist system.

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Wallace Beery

American actor in silent films and talkies
Born
April 1st, 1885 139 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1949 75 years ago — 64 years old

This actor started his career in silent films and transitioned successfully to talkies. Notable roles include the title character in 'The Champ,' which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The actor also starred in 'Treasure Island' and 'The Big House,' showcasing versatility across various genres. Over the years, received acclaim for performances and became a prominent figure during Hollywood's Golden Age.

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Ulrich Salchow

Figure skater and Olympic champion
Born
1877 148 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1949 75 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent figure skater, achieved significant success during the early 20th century. Competed in several World Championships, securing a position as the leading figure in the sport. Won the gold medal at the 1908 Summer Olympics in London, marking a notable achievement in figure skating history. Contributed to the popularization of figure skating techniques and styles through performances and competitions.

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Benjamin Faunce

American businessman and druggist
Born
1873 152 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1949 75 years ago — 76 years old

A druggist and businessman with a significant impact in the pharmaceutical industry. Founded Faunce & Company, which became a prominent name in drug manufacturing and distribution. Contributed to the development of numerous medicinal products used in various treatments. Actively participated in local business organizations and championed community growth through various initiatives.

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Maurice Maeterlinck

Poet and playwright, Nobel Prize winner
Born
August 29th, 1862 162 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1949 75 years ago — 86 years old

A Belgian-French playwright and poet, active primarily in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Maeterlinck is best known for his symbolist plays that explore themes of existentialism and the human condition. His notable works include 'The Blue Bird' and 'Pelleas and Melisande', which are characterized by a mystical tone and philosophical depth. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1911, Maeterlinck's writings have greatly influenced modern drama, emphasizing the importance of atmosphere and symbolism. His contributions to literature were pivotal in the development of the symbolist movement.

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Damaskinos of Athens

Greek Archbishop and ecclesiastical leader
Born
March 3rd, 1891 134 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1949 75 years ago — 58 years old

Occupied the position of Archbishop of Athens from 1938 to 1941 and again from 1944 to 1949. Played a significant role in religious and political life in Greece during turbulent times, including World War II. Led efforts to protect Jewish citizens during the Nazi occupation of Greece. Contributed to the restoration of the Orthodox Church after the war, emphasizing educational and social initiatives.

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Klaus Mann

German-American novelist and critic
Born
November 18th, 1906 118 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1949 75 years ago — 42 years old

Authored several significant literary works, including the novel 'Mephisto', which explored the rise of fascism in Germany. Became notable as a critic and a prominent figure in the exiled German literary community. Engaged deeply with themes of identity and personal politics, particularly regarding the impact of totalitarian regimes on individual lives. Contributed to the magazine 'Die Sammlung', which played a vital role in the intellectual discourse of the time.

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Jan Frans De Boever

Belgian painter and illustrator of landscapes
Born
June 8th, 1872 152 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1949 75 years ago — 76 years old

Renowned as a painter and illustrator, contributed significantly to art in the 20th century. Studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Brussels and developed a distinct style characterized by rich colors and emotive landscapes. Worked primarily in oil and watercolor, often depicting serene rural scenes and the natural environment. Included in various exhibitions across Europe, with numerous works held in prominent museums. Influenced later generations of artists through teaching and mentorship.

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