What Happened This Year 1950

People Who Died in 1950

Gustaf V of Sweden

King of Sweden and constitutional monarch
Born
June 16th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1950 76 years ago — 92 years old

Became king in 1907, serving until death in 1950. Oversaw significant political changes in Sweden, including the shift to a more democratic government. Supported neutrality during World War I and World War II. Represented Sweden at various international events and reinforced the monarchy's ceremonial role during a time of social change.

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Heinz-Wolfgang Schnaufer

German soldier and pilot during WWII
Born
February 16th, 1922 103 years ago
Died
1950 76 years ago — 28 years old

Participated in World War II as a Luftwaffe pilot. Achieved a high number of aerial victories, becoming one of the leading night fighters of the conflict. Actively engaged in several major battles, demonstrating tactical expertise in combat. Received numerous commendations for contributions to air warfare tactics and strategy.

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John M. Stahl

Film director and producer of melodramas
Born
January 21st, 1886 140 years ago
Died
1950 76 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent film director and producer, associated primarily with the melodrama genre. Served as a director for several classic films during the early to mid-20th century. Gained recognition for a directorial style that emphasized emotional depth and character development. Contributed significantly to the production of notable films during the 1930s and 1940s, including 'Nana' and 'Imitation of Life.' Established a reputation for crafting engaging stories that resonated with audiences.

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Alfred Korzybski

Linguist and philosopher of science
Born
July 3rd, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1950 76 years ago — 71 years old

A Polish-American linguist and philosopher, contributed significantly to the field of semantics and introduced the concept of non-Aristotelian logic. Developed the theory of general semantics, emphasizing the importance of language and symbols in human understanding. Founded the Institute of General Semantics in 1938, promoting research and education on the subject. Authored several influential works, including 'Science and Sanity', which laid the foundation for studying language and its impact on thought processes.

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Arnaud Massy

French golfer and major champion
Born
July 6th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1950 76 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent golfer, achieved greatness in the early 20th century. Claimed the Open Championship in 1907, becoming the first non-British winner of this prestigious tournament. Played a significant role in popularizing golf in France and contributed to the development of the sport throughout Europe. Competed in various international tournaments, showcasing skill and determination. Recorded multiple victories on the European circuit, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of golf.

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Abraham Wachner

New Zealand politician and mayor
Born
August 15th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1950 76 years ago — 58 years old

Served as the 35th Mayor of Invercargill. Held office during a time of significant development in the city. Focused on infrastructure improvements and community services. Actively participated in local governance and initiatives aimed at enhancing urban living.

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John Gould Fletcher

American poet and author
Born
January 3rd, 1886 140 years ago
Died
1950 76 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1886, this individual gained prominence as a poet and author, contributing significantly to American literature. A member of the Fugitive group of Southern writers, worked within the Modernist movement. Published several poetry collections, with an emphasis on symbolism and imagery. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1935 for the work entitled 'selected Poems'. Engaged in literary criticism and explored various themes throughout a rich writing career.

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Rex Ingram

Film director and producer of 'The Four Horsemen'
Born
January 15th, 1893 133 years ago
Died
1950 76 years ago — 57 years old

Born in Ireland, a film director, producer, writer, and actor. Ingram began directing silent films in the 1910s, gaining recognition for his work. He became a prominent figure in early Hollywood, particularly noted for directing 'The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse' in 1921, which was one of the first films to achieve great commercial success, contributing to the popularity of the medium. He also directed 'The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes' and 'The Magician,' which showcased his storytelling abilities. Venturing into both directing and acting, his work spanned several genres, leaving a mark on the silent film era before transitioning into sound films. Ingram's contributions to cinema, especially during its formative years, cemented his place in film history.

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Peter Fraser

Prime Minister of New Zealand
Born
August 28th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1950 76 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the 24th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1940 to 1949. Fraser was a prominent figure in New Zealand's Labour Party and played a significant role during World War II. His leadership focused on social reforms and the establishment of a welfare state, contributing to economic recovery in the post-war period. Fraser was involved in international diplomacy and represented New Zealand at the founding conferences of the United Nations, advocating for peace and cooperation among nations. His tenure was marked by initiatives in education, health, and labor rights, shaping New Zealand's social policies.

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