What Happened This Year 1950

People Who Died in 1950

Abraham Wachner

New Zealand politician and mayor
Born
August 15th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1950 75 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 139 years ago
Died
1950 75 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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Walter Damrosch

Conductor and composer of classical music
Born
January 30th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1862, a prominent conductor and composer emerged within the American classical music scene. Studied in Europe before immigrating to the United States, where significant contributions were made to music education and composition. Served as conductor of the New York Symphony and conducted the New York Philharmonic. Founded the Damrosch School of Music, contributing to the development of music programs in the country. Composed various orchestral works and operas, with 'Cyrano de Bergerac' being among the most notable.

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John F. Fitzgerald

American politician; Mayor of Boston
Born
February 11th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 87 years old

Served as the Mayor of Boston from 1906 to 1908 and from 1910 to 1914. Held office as a U.S. Congressman from 1919 to 1921. Advocated for urban development and public welfare initiatives during tenure. Engaged with the Democratic Party and supported various reforms.

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Agnes Smedley

American journalist and author
Born
February 23rd, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1892, a journalist and writer contributed extensively to political and social causes, focusing on issues such as women's rights and anti-imperialism. Actively involved with various socialist movements, reported on the Chinese Revolution, and advocated for reform in both China and the United States. Authored several works detailing experiences and struggles in China, providing insights into the sociopolitical climate of the era. Engaged with influential communist figures and fostered international understanding through her writings.

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Alexandru Vaida-Voevod

Romanian Prime Minister and politician
Born
February 27th, 1872 153 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 78 years old

Served as Prime Minister of Romania during significant periods including the aftermath of World War I. Played a crucial role in promoting national unity and addressing territorial issues following the war. Participated in international diplomacy, particularly concerning the rights of Romanians in Transylvania and other regions. Represented Romania at the Paris Peace Conference, advocating for the country's interests in the newly restructured Europe. Throughout the political career, held various ministerial positions, contributing to both domestic policies and foreign relations.

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Nathaniel Reed

American criminal known for bank robbery
Born
March 23rd, 1862 163 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1862, engaged in criminal activities, specifically bank robbery. Reed was involved in a notorious bank heist in the late 19th century that gained significant media attention. His actions contributed to the exploration of early criminal psychology and law enforcement methods during that era. Reed's criminal endeavors ultimately led to his arrest, which highlighted the increasing sophistication of organized crime in the United States.

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Xavier Villaurrutia

Mexican poet and playwright, acclaimed for works
Born
March 27th, 1903 122 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 47 years old

Born in 1903, this individual emerged as a pivotal figure in Mexican literature, primarily through contributions to poetry and theater. The poetic style exhibited a modernist approach, often blending surrealism with profound cultural themes. The playwright achieved recognition for significant works such as 'La mujer que sabe' and 'El engranaje'. These pieces highlighted social issues and human experiences through innovative narrative techniques. The influence on contemporary Mexican writers is notable, with many citing this individual's work as a catalyst for exploration in themes of identity and existentialism.

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Heinrich Mann

German author and poet, notable works
Born
March 27th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1871, this individual was a significant German author and poet. The literary career began with early works that explored themes of individuality and societal issues. A key figure in the German literary landscape, this author is often associated with the critique of authoritarianism and the promotion of liberal values. His works include novels such as "Professor Unrat" and "The Loyal Subject," which addressed the complexities of human nature and moral conflict. Additionally, he contributed essays that reflected on contemporary issues. Active during a time of political upheaval, this individual faced censorship in Nazi Germany, leading to exile. Much of the written work remained influential in literature and political discourse.

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