What Happened This Year 1950

People Who Died in 1950

Kazys Grinius

Lithuanian physician and president
Born
December 17th, 1866 158 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 84 years old

A physician and politician served as the third President of Lithuania from 1926 to 1927. Played a significant role in the formation of the Lithuanian state after World War I. Previously held positions in various government roles, contributing to the healthcare sector and political landscape of Lithuania. Advocated for the development of constitutional governance and was involved in promoting civil rights.

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Gerald Tyrwhitt-Wilson

English composer and author of novels
Born
September 18th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1883, a prominent figure in the early 20th century arts scene, created a distinctive body of musical work, incorporating elements of classical and modern styles. Also wrote several novels that reflected personal experiences and societal observations. Active in the cultural life of England, associated with various artistic movements and social circles, providing insights into the period's creative environment.

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Emil Jannings

Swiss-German actor, first Oscar winner
Born
July 23rd, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 66 years old

Born in Switzerland, Jannings became a prominent figure in German cinema during the silent film era. He gained international fame with performances in films such as 'The Last Laugh' and 'The Blue Angel'. In 1929, Jannings became the first recipient of the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performances in 'The Last Laugh' and 'The Way of All Flesh'. His successful transition to talkies was marked by roles in various films in the early 1930s. Jannings worked with notable directors like F.W. Murnau and served as a pivotal figure in the film industry during its early development.

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Eloísa Díaz

Chilean physician and medical pioneer
Born
June 25th, 1866 159 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 84 years old

Graduated from the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Chile in 1887, becoming the first female physician in the country. Worked at the Maternity Hospital of Santiago, focusing on women's health and children's welfare. Contributed to medical education by participating in the development of hospital residency programs. Advocated for the inclusion of women in the medical profession.

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Ransom E. Olds

Automobile pioneer and manufacturer
Born
June 3rd, 1864 161 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1864, this individual significantly contributed to the automotive industry by founding one of the first mass-production automobile companies in the United States. Established the Oldsmobile brand, which introduced assembly line techniques to car manufacturing. Later founded the REO Motor Car Company, producing several popular models throughout the early 20th century. His innovations in manufacturing processes helped shape the future of automobile production.

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Guilhermina Suggia

Portuguese cellist and composer
Born
June 27th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent cellist, gained recognition for performances throughout Europe and North America during the early 20th century. Studied under notable musicians and participated in various prestigious music festivals. Suggia was renowned for interpretations of classical and romantic repertoire, particularly works by composers such as Elgar and Saint-Saëns. She collaborated with leading orchestras and conducted masterclasses to inspire the next generation of musicians.

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Albert Dunstan

Australian politician, Premier of Victoria
Born
July 26th, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 68 years old

Served as the 33rd Premier of Victoria from 1945 to 1947. Represented the Country Party and played a significant role in government during this period, focusing on rural development and economic strategies. Participated in key policy decisions that impacted the state's post-war recovery and agricultural sectors. Held various ministerial positions prior to becoming Premier, contributing to infrastructure and community development.

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Timothy Evans

Wrongfully convicted murder case subject
Born
November 20th, 1924 100 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 26 years old

Born in Wales in 1924, a significant miscarriage of justice occurred when received a wrongful murder conviction. In 1950, convicted of the murder of his child and attempted murder of his wife, despite insufficient evidence. Evans consistently maintained innocence throughout the trial and subsequent imprisonment. The case attracted public attention and scrutiny, ultimately contributing to a reassessment of the legal system at the time. In 1955, a major breakthrough emerged when it was revealed another individual had committed the crime. Weeks before execution was scheduled, Evans was exonerated and released from prison, representing a pivotal moment in the fight against wrongful convictions in the UK.

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Lauri Tanner

Finnish gymnast and Olympic participant
Born
November 20th, 1890 134 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 60 years old

Competed in gymnastics at the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm. Secured two bronze medals in team events. Contributed to the development of gymnastics in Finland and impacted the sport's popularity. Involved in coaching and promoting gymnastics throughout the country.

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