What Happened This Year 1872

Born in 1872

Billy Bitzer

Cinematographer known for 'The Birth of a Nation'
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1944 80 years ago — 72 years old

A pioneering cinematographer significantly contributed to early film techniques. Born in 1874, he worked extensively during the silent film era. Bitzer collaborated with D.W. Griffith on many influential projects, most notably 'The Birth of a Nation' in 1915, which showcased his innovative use of lighting and camera angles. Bitzer's expertise in cinematography helped shape the visual language of early cinema. He continued to work in the industry until the late 1920s, influencing future generations of filmmakers through his technical advancements and creative approaches.

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Hannah Mitchell

English activist advocating for women's rights
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1956 68 years ago — 84 years old

Active in the early 20th century, one of the prominent figures in the women's suffrage movement. Fought for women's voting rights and worked with the Women's Social and Political Union. Contributed to various local and national campaigns advocating for social justice and the rights of women, organizing rallies and public speaking engagements. Wrote extensively about women's issues and participated in the broader socialist movement, emphasizing the intersection of gender and class struggles.

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Émile Henry

French anarchist and bomb maker
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1894 130 years ago — 22 years old

Active in the late 19th century, engaged in anarchist activities. Conducted attacks against establishments in Paris and advocated for revolutionary change. Responsible for multiple bombings, which targeted public officials and symbolized resistance against authority. Spent time in prison due to activism and was executed by guillotine for his actions, highlighting the government's stance against anarchism.

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Vlasios Tsirogiannis

Greek general during the Greco-Turkish War
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1928 96 years ago — 56 years old

Served as a general in the Greek army during the Greco-Turkish War (1919-1922). Played a significant role in various military operations during the conflict. After the war, contributed to military strategy discussions and served in various capacities within the Greek military establishment.

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William Desmond Taylor

American actor and director, 'The Eternal City'
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1922 103 years ago — 50 years old

Active during the silent film era, contributed significantly to the development of early cinema as both an actor and a director. Directed several films and starred in various productions, most notably 'The Eternal City'. The unresolved circumstances surrounding his death prompted significant media coverage and public interest, influencing discussions about the film industry and its practices at the time. Left a lasting legacy in the world of silent films.

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Willie Keeler

Baseball player and batting champion
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1923 102 years ago — 51 years old

An American baseball player played mainly as an outfielder. Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1892 and played until 1910. Achieved high batting averages throughout career and led the National League with a batting average of .432 in 1897. Was a member of the Baltimore Orioles and the New York Highlanders, contributing to team success during tenure. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1939.

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Siegfried Flesch

Austrian Fencer and Olympian
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1939 85 years ago — 67 years old

An accomplished fencer, competed in the individual foil event at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin. Flesch secured numerous national championships in Austria and contributed to the prominence of fencing in the country during the early 20th century. He was recognized for his technical skill and competitive spirit.

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Gustave Sandras

French gymnast and Olympic medalist
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1951 73 years ago — 79 years old

Competed in gymnastics at the 1900 Olympic Games in Paris. Achieved a silver medal in the team all-around event. Contributed to the development and popularization of gymnastics in France during the early 20th century.

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Henry "Ivo" Crapp

Australian footballer and umpire
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1924 101 years ago — 52 years old

Played Australian rules football in the early 20th century and served as an umpire. Contributed to the sport through both play and officiating roles. Played for the Fitzroy Football Club and was involved in the establishment of rules and standards in the league. His influence extended beyond his playing days into governance and umpiring.

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