What Happened This Year 1869

Born in 1869

Booth Tarkington

American novelist and dramatist
Born
July 29th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1946 78 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent American novelist and dramatist, contributed significantly to early 20th-century literature. Authored several famous works, most notably "The Magnificent Ambersons" and "Alice Adams," both of which won Pulitzer Prizes. Engaged in the literary scene of his time, engaging with themes of social status and the complexities of American life. Besides fiction, also wrote plays that were performed on Broadway, further showcasing versatility in storytelling.

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Mary Frances Winston

American mathematician and educator
Born
August 7th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1869, a mathematician focused on mathematics education. Contributed to the field through teaching and curriculum development. Worked at several institutions, promoting mathematics among women and minorities. Published significant research aimed at improving mathematical understanding in educational settings. Played a role in advocating for increased opportunities in mathematics for underrepresented groups.

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Laurence Binyon

English poet and playwright
Born
August 10th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
1943 82 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1869, this English poet, playwright, and scholar is remembered for significant contributions to literature. The poem 'For the Fallen' became widely recognized during World War I, serving as a tribute to soldiers who lost their lives in battle. This individual also wrote several plays and was a member of the artistic community, engaging in both writing and scholarly pursuits. Contributions to art and criticism were made through various essays and publications. Teaching at notable institutions enriched their career, merging literary criticism and poetry.

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Carl Rungius

Painter of North American wildlife scenes
Born
August 18th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 90 years old

Born in Germany, this painter immigrated to the United States in the late 19th century. Rungius specialized in the depiction of North American wildlife and landscapes, emphasizing accuracy and detail. His work contributed significantly to the field of wildlife art, and he became recognized for portraying various species in their natural habitats. In addition to creating paintings, Rungius was also an educator who influenced many aspiring artists. He held exhibitions in galleries and museums across the United States, showcasing his artistic achievements and passion for nature.

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William Henry Ogilvie

Scottish-Australian poet and author
Born
August 21st, 1869 155 years ago
Died
1963 62 years ago — 94 years old

Born in Scotland and later moving to Australia, this poet made significant contributions to Australian literature. Known for capturing the essence of the Australian landscape and experience, poetry collections reflect themes of nature and rural life. Ogilvie's works appeared in various literary journals, earning recognition during his lifetime. His writing style blended romanticism with a keen observation of the Australian environment, resonating with readers and influencing contemporaries.

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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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Fritz Pregl

Nobel Prize-winning chemist
Born
September 3rd, 1869 155 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1930 94 years ago — 61 years old

This individual was a Slovenian chemist and physician who made significant contributions to analytical chemistry. The development of microanalysis techniques allowed for the precise measurement and analysis of chemical compounds in very small quantities. This innovation led to numerous advancements in the field of chemistry and life sciences. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1923 for work on quantitative organic microanalysis, the contributions have had lasting significance in research methodologies.

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Felix Salten

Austrian-Swiss author of Bambi
Born
September 6th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1945 79 years ago — 76 years old

An author and critic, contributed significantly to literature in the early 20th century. Wrote the children's novel 'Bambi, A Life in the Woods', published in 1923, which explored themes of nature and life in the forest. The story was later adapted into a successful animated film by Disney in 1942, bringing the narrative to a broader audience. Besides children's literature, engaged in journalism and theater, contributing to various publications throughout his career.

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Walford Davies

English organist and composer of hymns
Born
September 6th, 1869 155 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 72 years old

An English organist and composer from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this individual studied at the Royal Academy of Music. The career spanned various roles including organist at notable institutions such as St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle. His contributions to hymnody included compositions still sung in churches today. During his tenure at the Royal Academy of Music, he served as an influential teacher and made significant contributions to music education. Several of his works were published, and he also held positions with various music organizations.

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