What Happened This Year 1951

People Who Died in 1951

Algernon Blackwood

English author of supernatural fiction
Born
March 14th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1951 73 years ago — 82 years old

An English author and playwright, contributions primarily focused on supernatural fiction. Writings included short stories, novels, and plays, often exploring themes of nature and the unknown. Developed a distinctive voice in the genre, celebrated for a unique ability to evoke atmosphere and suspense. Works frequently published in various literary magazines, gaining a considerable readership during the early 20th century. Among the most celebrated stories are 'The Willows' and 'The Wendigo', illustrating the blend of the natural world with the supernatural. Also involved in theatre, producing stage adaptations of own works.

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Hijri Dede

Iraqi Turkmen poet and writer
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1951 73 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent poet and writer from Iraq, contributed significantly to Turkmen literature. Focused on themes of Turkmen identity and culture throughout his work. Engaged in promoting the Turkmen language and heritage during a time of sociopolitical change. Served as a cultural figure in the region, influencing future generations of writers and poets.

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Mustafa Muğlalı

Turkish general and military leader
Born
1882 143 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1951 73 years ago — 69 years old

Served as a general in the Turkish Army during the early and mid-20th century. Played a significant role in various military campaigns and was involved in the establishment of the modern Turkish Republic. Held key positions within the Turkish military and was a prominent figure throughout the Second World War, contributing to Turkey's military strategies and operations during this tumultuous period. Continued to influence military leadership until retirement.

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Mildred Bailey

American jazz singer and bandleader
Born
February 27th, 1907 118 years ago
Died
December 12th, 1951 73 years ago — 44 years old

Born in 1907, a significant figure in American jazz, achieved acclaim during the 1930s and 1940s. Collaborated with prominent musicians and bands, including the Paul Whiteman Orchestra. Best recognized for a unique voice that blended pop and jazz styles, influencing future generations. Recorded classic songs such as 'Cry Baby' and 'I Can't Give You Anything But Love.' Her contributions helped shape the sound of big band and jazz during a pivotal era in music history.

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Hans Merensky

Geologist and philanthropist
Born
March 16th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1952 72 years ago — 81 years old

Contributed significantly to geology and mining in South Africa. Conducted geological surveys and mapped mineral resources, particularly in the Bushveld Igneous Complex. Advocated for education and established schools and libraries in rural areas. Founded the Merensky Trust to support education and cultural development.

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Tom Kiely

British-Irish decathlete and Olympian
Born
August 25th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 82 years old

Competed in athletics, particularly in the decathlon, representing Great Britain at the 1900 Paris Olympics. Achieved a gold medal in the decathlon event, becoming the first Olympic champion in this discipline. Also competed in other track and field events, showcasing versatility in athletic performance.

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Jiří Karásek ze Lvovic

Czech poet and literary critic
Born
January 24th, 1871 154 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent Czech poet, writer, and literary critic contributed significantly to Czech literature during the early 20th century. Authored numerous poetry collections and novels, exploring themes of modernism and existentialism. Also engaged in literary criticism, offering insights into contemporary Czech literary figures. Besides poetry, wrote essays and critiques that mapped the evolution of Czech literature during a transformative period.

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John Flynn

Minister and founder of Flying Doctor Service
Born
November 25th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 71 years old

An Australian minister and pilot, made significant contributions to remote healthcare in Australia. Established the Royal Flying Doctor Service in 1928, which provided medical care to those in isolated areas. Advocated for improved medical services in rural regions, integrating aviation into healthcare delivery. His efforts laid the foundation for modern emergency medical services in Australia.

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Gibson Gowland

English film actor known for 'Greed'
Born
January 4th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 74 years old

An English film actor, gained recognition for performances in early silent films. Featured in 'Greed', directed by Erich von Stroheim, which is considered a landmark in American cinema. Worked in both the United Kingdom and the United States during the silent and early sound film eras. Contributed to the burgeoning film industry during its formative years and became associated with notable productions in the 1920s.

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