What Happened This Year 1869

Born in 1869

Bill Haywood

Labor Organizer and Industrial Workers of the World Leader
Born
February 4th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1928 97 years ago — 59 years old

A significant labor organizer, played a vital role in the American labor movement during the early 20th century. Helped to found the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) in 1905, advocating for workers' rights and better conditions. Challenged corporate power and influenced labor activism across various industries. Frequently spoke on behalf of striking miners and organized labor strikes throughout the United States. His radical views on labor rights often led to legal challenges and imprisonment.

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Royal Cortissoz

Art critic and writer on American art
Born
February 10th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1948 76 years ago — 79 years old

An influential art critic and writer, contributed significantly to the discourse on American art in the early 20th century. Served as the chief art critic for the Brooklyn Eagle and wrote extensively on the art scene, highlighting the works of contemporary artists and movements. Authored books analyzing American painters and their contributions. Played a vital role in promoting awareness of American art, especially at a time when it was gaining recognition in the global art community.

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Helene Kröller-Müller

Art collector and museum founder
Born
February 11th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 70 years old

An art collector and philanthropist, played a crucial role in the establishment of the Kröller-Müller Museum in the Netherlands, which houses a significant collection of modern art. Actively collected artworks, including numerous pieces by Vincent van Gogh, contributing to the preservation and appreciation of art in the early 20th century. Dedicated significant resources to creating an institutional framework for art, ensuring accessibility and education for the public.

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Else Lasker-Schüler

German poet and playwright, acclaimed work
Born
February 11th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1945 80 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent figure in German literature, contributions included poetry, plays, and essays. Frequently associated with the Expressionist movement, gained recognition through works such as 'My Daughters' and 'The Land of the Living.' Lived during a turbulent period marked by World War I and the rise of the Nazi regime, resulting in exile and a significant shift in career. Work often explored themes of love, loss, and identity, resonating deeply with audiences. Continued to write until the end of life despite facing immense challenges as an exile.

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Kiến Phúc

Vietnamese Emperor during the Nguyễn Dynasty
Born
February 12th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1884 140 years ago — 15 years old

Ruled as the emperor of Vietnam from 1884 to 1885 during the Nguyễn Dynasty. ascended the throne at a young age in a period marked by French colonial expansion. His reign was brief, facing significant political challenges and threats from French colonial powers. The period was turbulent and saw the growing influence of the French, which ultimately led to the annexation of Vietnam. Despite the challenges faced during the rule, efforts were made towards governance, although they were limited by external pressures. Passed away early in life, marking a swift end to a reign characterized by instability.

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Charles Thomson Rees Wilson

Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
February 14th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1959 65 years ago — 90 years old

A Scottish physicist and meteorologist contributed to the understanding of particle physics through the invention of the cloud chamber. This device allowed for the observation of ionizing radiation, which advanced experimental physics significantly. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1927 for the work on cloud chambers, the invention has become a fundamental tool for many future experiments in high-energy physics. The research also played a role in the development of nuclear physics.

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Hovhannes Tumanyan

Armenian-Russian poet and author
Born
February 19th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1923 101 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 1869, Tumanyan emerged as a pivotal figure in Armenian literature. Primarily recognized for his contributions to poetry, Tumanyan's works often drew from Armenian folklore and culture. He wrote extensively, producing poems, short stories, and translations. His literary style combined traditional forms with modern themes, infusing a sense of cultural identity and emotional depth. Tumanyan's dedication to preserving Armenian heritage became evident in his writings, many of which continue to be celebrated and taught in Armenian literature today. He passed away in 1923, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate in Armenian literary circles.

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Zara DuPont

American suffragist and advocate
Born
February 24th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1946 78 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1869, significant contributions to the women's suffrage movement occurred. Played a leading role in organizing rallies and petition drives. Collaborated with various women's organizations to advance voting rights. Active in promoting women's issues until the passage of the Nineteenth Amendment in 1920, which granted women the right to vote.

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Phoebus Levene

Biochemist known for nucleic acids research
Born
February 25th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 71 years old

A Russian-American biochemist and physician, focused on the structure of nucleic acids. Contributed to the understanding of DNA and RNA. Participated in the discovery of the nucleic acid structure, leading to significant advancements in genetics. Held various academic positions and published numerous scientific papers throughout the career.

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