What Happened This Year 1869

Born in 1869

Albert Roussel

French composer and orchestrator
Born
April 5th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1937 87 years ago — 68 years old

A significant figure in French music, contributed to the development of 20th-century classical music. Studied at the Schola Cantorum in Paris and later served in the French Navy, which influenced many compositions. Worked as a teacher and composed operas, ballets, symphonies, and chamber music, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern elements. Notable compositions include 'Bacchus et Ariane' and 'Le Festin de l’araignée'.

Continue Reading

Levon Shant

Armenian author, poet, playwright
Born
April 6th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 82 years old

An Armenian author, poet, and playwright contributed significantly to Armenian literature. Shant wrote extensively in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, exploring themes of nationalism and identity. His literary works encompassed poetry and prose, highlighting the struggles and aspirations of the Armenian people. Notable plays captured the socio-political atmosphere of the region, resonating with contemporary audiences. Shant played an important role in the cultural revival of Armenia during his lifetime.

Continue Reading

Harvey Cushing

Neurosurgeon and professor of surgery
Born
April 8th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 70 years old

A pioneering figure in neurosurgery, contributed significantly to the development of the field. Innovated surgical techniques and introduced the use of the term 'brain surgery.' Served as a professor of surgery at Johns Hopkins University and later at Yale University. Authored groundbreaking texts that established neurosurgery as a distinct specialty. Created the field of endocrinology through his research on the pituitary gland and its relation to various diseases.

Continue Reading

Gustav Vigeland

Norwegian sculptor famous for sculpture park
Born
April 11th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1943 82 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent Norwegian sculptor focused on monumental design and public art. Vigeland created the Vigeland Park in Oslo, featuring over 200 sculptures in various materials. His works reflect themes of human life, relationships, and emotions. The park remains a significant cultural attraction and showcases Vigeland's distinctive style. The artist's influence extended to architecture as well, where he integrated sculpture into urban design.

Continue Reading

Henri Désiré Landru

French serial killer
Born
April 12th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
1922 103 years ago — 53 years old

A French individual operated a series of murders in the early 20th century. Landru lured women through advertisements for marriage, eventually killing many of them before disposing of their bodies. Arrested in 1917, evidence included personal belongings of victims found at his residence. The trial captivated the country and ended in a conviction for multiple murders, leading to a death sentence. Execution occurred in 1922 by guillotine.

Continue Reading

Hans Poelzig

Architect and designer of IG Farben Building
Born
April 30th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1936 88 years ago — 67 years old

An architect, painter, and designer focused on expressionist architecture. Designed the IG Farben Building in Frankfurt, which is recognized as a significant work of modern architecture. Contributed to the design of various theaters and exhibition spaces, blending functionality with artistic expression. Worked on projects that reflected the architectural movements of the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Hans Pfitzner

German composer and conductor, opera creator
Born
May 5th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
1949 76 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1869, a distinguished German composer and conductor made significant contributions to early 20th-century music. Pfitzner studied in Munich and later became a prominent figure in the music scene. He gained attention for the opera 'Palestrina,' which premiered in 1917 and is acknowledged for its complex structure and rich harmonic language. Pfitzner's works often reflected themes of nationalism and romanticism, highlighting his alignment with the German cultural identity during challenging political times. In addition to operas, he composed symphonic works and chamber music, garnering respect within classical music circles. His influence extended through his role as an educator, teaching future generations of musicians about composition and conducting.

Continue Reading

Fabián de la Rosa

Filipino painter and educator
Born
May 5th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1937 87 years ago — 68 years old

Born in the Philippines, a prominent painter and educator contributed significantly to the art scene in the early 20th century. Studied at the Academia de Dibujo y Pintura in Manila and continued education in Europe. Focused on realism and social themes, becoming a key figure in the Philippine art community. Held various teaching positions and influenced generations of artists. Served as a director of the University of the Philippines School of Fine Arts.

Continue Reading

Junnosuke Inoue

Japanese businessman and banker
Born
May 6th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1932 93 years ago — 62 years old

Established a prominent banking career and played a significant role in the growth of the Japanese banking industry during the early 20th century. Contributed to the development of various financial institutions and played a key role in shaping Japan's economic landscape. Involved in several banking ventures that facilitated trade and industry in Japan. Served as a leader guiding financial policies and practices during a transformative period for the country's economy.

Continue Reading