What Happened This Year 1954

People Who Died in 1954

Archduke Eugen of Austria

Austrian Archduke and field marshal
Born
May 21st, 1863 162 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1954 70 years ago — 91 years old

Served in the Austro-Hungarian Army and participated in World War I. Commanded the 3rd Army during the war, particularly noted for military leadership on the Italian front. Contributed to the modernization of military tactics and strategy. Also recognized for significant involvement in various cultural and scientific endeavors in Austria.

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Eugene Meyer

Businessman and newspaper publisher
Born
October 31st, 1875 150 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1959 66 years ago — 83 years old

Involved in the publishing industry, contributed significantly to journalism in the United States. Became the owner of The Washington Post, steering the publication through challenging economic times and establishing a reputation for quality reporting. Served as chairman of the Federal Reserve from 1930 to 1933, playing a role in economic policy during the Great Depression. Held various key positions in business and public service throughout the career.

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Grantland Rice

American sports journalist and poet
Born
November 1st, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1954 71 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent journalist and poet in American sports, this individual contributed significantly to sports writing in the early 20th century. Working primarily for the New York Evening Post, he gained a reputation for his poetic prose and insightful commentary. This person covered major sporting events, including college football, boxing, and golf, and became a pioneer in sports journalism. The poem 'Alumnus Football' highlighted the spirit of college football and exemplified the blend of sports and literature.

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Idabelle Smith Firestone

American composer and songwriter
Born
November 10th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
1954 71 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1874, a composer and songwriter gained recognition in the early 20th century for contributions to American music. Works included songs for various genres, showcasing skill in both composition and lyric writing. Actively involved in the music community, collaborated with notable musicians and participated in performances that highlighted her compositions. Education in music provided a foundation for a career that intertwined classical and popular styles, leaving a lasting influence in the American music scene.

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Zofia Nałkowska

Polish author and playwright
Born
November 10th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1954 71 years ago — 70 years old

An influential Polish author and playwright, gained recognition for contributions to literature and drama in the early 20th century. Writings often encompassed themes of social issues and women's rights. Produced a significant body of work including novels, essays, and plays, reflecting contemporary Polish society. Served as a member of the Polish Academy of Literature and engaged in various literary movements.

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Frederick Lewis Allen

Historian and journalist, wrote 'Only Yesterday'
Born
July 5th, 1890 135 years ago
Died
1954 71 years ago — 64 years old

An American historian and journalist focused on the 1920s and 1930s. Authored several influential works, with 'Only Yesterday' being a notable examination of American life during the Roaring Twenties. Served as editor of Harper's Magazine, contributing to the publication of significant articles and essays. Worked to provide context and understanding of historical events through accessible narratives.

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Robert H. Jackson

United States Attorney General, Supreme Court Justice
Born
February 13th, 1892 133 years ago
Died
1954 71 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the 57th United States Attorney General from 1940 to 1941. Played a significant role as the chief U.S. prosecutor at the Nuremberg Trials, where leading Nazi officials were prosecuted for war crimes after World War II. Appointed as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court in 1941 and served until 1954. Contributed to key decisions in notable Supreme Court cases during tenure.

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Senda Berenson Abbott

Basketball pioneer and educator
Born
March 19th, 1868 157 years ago
Died
1954 71 years ago — 86 years old

Played a pivotal role in the development of women's basketball at the collegiate level. As a physical education instructor, implemented the first official women's basketball rules in 1899 at Smith College. Advocated for women's participation in sports and athletic programs. Contributed significantly to the establishment of women's collegiate athletics and served as the first president of the Women's Basketball Association.

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Henry Blogg

Fisherman and sailor, lifeboat hero
Born
February 6th, 1876 149 years ago
Died
1954 71 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1876, a notable English fisherman and sailor dedicated to lifesaving efforts at sea. Served as a coxswain of the Cromer lifeboat for over 50 years. Rescued 873 people during numerous maritime emergencies, showcasing exceptional seamanship and courage. Received multiple awards for bravery, including the Gold Medal from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and the George Medal for valor.

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