What Happened This Year 1872

Born in 1872

John Arthur Jarvis

English swimmer, 1908 Olympic bronze medalist
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1933 91 years ago — 61 years old

Acquired recognition as an accomplished swimmer, specializing in freestyle events. Competed in the 1908 Summer Olympics, contributing to the British swimming team's efforts. Finished third in the 4 x 200 meter relay, securing a bronze medal. Developed a reputation in the early 20th century swimming community, participating in various national events.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Edward Adrian Wilson

English physician and polar explorer
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1912 112 years ago — 40 years old

A physician and explorer, this individual participated in several Antarctic expeditions during the early 20th century. He was a member of both the British National Antarctic Expedition (1901-1904) and the ill-fated Terra Nova Expedition (1910-1913). Notable for contributions to scientific research in polar regions, he specialized in zoology and botany. His work included studying the geographical distribution of species and the adaptation of organisms to harsh climates. Alongside Robert Falcon Scott, he perished during an ill-fated return journey from the South Pole in 1912, leaving behind a legacy of exploration and scientific inquiry.

Continue Reading

Learned Hand

American jurist and legal thinker
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1961 63 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent American lawyer and jurist, Hand served as a judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. Celebrated for his contributions to legal philosophy and constitutional law, he authored numerous influential opinions that shaped American jurisprudence. Hand’s beliefs about civil liberties and the importance of free speech influenced legal standards in the United States. As a notable scholar, he lectured extensively and engaged in discussions about the role of law in society. His efforts in the field of law encompassed a blend of practical judgment and deep philosophical inquiry.

Continue Reading

Nikolaos Stratos

Greek lawyer and politician, Prime Minister
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1922 102 years ago — 50 years old

Served as the 106th Prime Minister of Greece. Contributed to the political landscape during a tumultuous period in Greek history. Engaged in legal and political reforms, shaping the direction of governance in the early 20th century. Presided over significant governmental challenges, including economic issues and political instability.

Continue Reading

Charles Fryatt

English captain during World War I
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1916 108 years ago — 44 years old

Served as a captain in the British Merchant Navy. On March 24, 1916, while commanding the vessel SS Brussels, engaged in a confrontation with a German U-boat. Successfully rammed the submarine, which became a significant act of defiance during the war. Captured by German forces later that year and faced a court-martial for his actions against the U-boat. Executed on July 27, 1916, for his defiance and perceived act of war against Germany.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Camillo Schumann

German composer and organist
Born
1872 153 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1946 78 years ago — 74 years old

Born in Germany, contributed to the field of music as a composer and organist. Schumann's works included choral and organ compositions, with a focus on sacred music. He was involved in numerous performances and festivals, showcasing various musical pieces. His dedication to music education also played a significant role in his career, influencing future generations of musicians. Schumann's legacy is represented through compositions that continue to be performed in churches and concert halls.

Continue Reading