What Happened This Year 1874

Born in 1874

Tan Kah Kee

Chinese businessman and philanthropist
Born
October 21st, 1874 150 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 87 years old

Tan Kah Kee was a prominent Chinese businessman and community leader, active during the early 20th century. He established the Sin Chew Jit Poh newspaper in Malaysia, becoming a key figure in the Chinese press. Tan played a vital role in education by founding several schools and institutions, including Jimei School and Xiamen University in China. His philanthropic efforts focused on the Chinese diaspora in Southeast Asia, particularly in supporting education and cultural initiatives. During the Chinese Civil War, he supported the communist cause, financially backing various efforts to promote social change in China.

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Charles Kilpatrick

American runner and educator
Born
October 23rd, 1874 150 years ago
Died
1921 104 years ago — 47 years old

An accomplished distance runner and educator, contributed to the development of athletics in educational institutions. Competed in various national events, earning a reputation in the running community. Served as an educator, mentoring young athletes and promoting physical education.

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Huang Xing

Chinese revolutionary leader and statesman
Born
October 25th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1916 108 years ago — 42 years old

Born in 1874, contributed to the early 20th-century revolutionary movement against the Qing Dynasty in China. Studied in Japan, where revolutionary ideas took root. Formed alliances with other revolutionaries and played a crucial role in several uprisings, leading to the establishment of the Republic of China in 1912. Served as the military governor of Hunan and held various influential positions in the new government, advocating for modern military reform and national unification. His vision for a republican China included significant democratic principles and modernization efforts.

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Emma Gramatica

Italian actress from notable films
Born
October 25th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 91 years old

Born in Italy in 1874, Gramatica achieved recognition as an actress in theater and film during the early 20th century. The career spanned several decades, marked by significant performances in both contemporary and classic works. Gramatica became a prominent figure in the Italian film industry and contributed to the development of early cinematic art. The transition between silent films and talkies witnessed Gramatica's adaptability and continued presence on stage and screen. The contributions to Italian cinema and theater solidified Gramatica's legacy as an influential actress of her time.

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Martin Lowry

English chemist and academic
Born
October 26th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
1936 89 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1874, a chemist and academic focused on organic compounds and their structures. Played a significant role in the development of various chemical theories and applications. Held academic positions at several institutions, contributing extensively to scientific literature in chemistry. Authored the influential book 'Chemical Technology', shaping educational frameworks in the field. Engaged in research that enhanced understanding of chemical processes.

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Charles Despiau

French sculptor with notable works
Born
November 4th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1874, a prominent French sculptor emerged, recognized for contributions to modern sculpture. Studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris and developed a distinctive style characterized by smooth surfaces and classical forms. Most of the career focused on portrait sculptures and representations of the human figure. Created several public monuments and received honors for artistic excellence. His work reflected a deep understanding of anatomy and mastery in conveying emotion through sculptural form, making a significant mark in the realm of 20th-century sculpture.

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Albert Francis Blakeslee

Botanist and academic recognized for genetics
Born
November 9th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
1954 71 years ago — 80 years old

Significant contributions to the understanding of plant genetics within the field of botany occurred. Research on the role of chromosomes in heredity advanced knowledge in plant biology. Developed techniques for studying plant hybrids and their genetic variations. Published numerous articles and papers that articulated findings and methodologies, influencing future studies in genetics and botany.

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Idabelle Smith Firestone

American composer and songwriter
Born
November 10th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
1954 71 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1874, a composer and songwriter gained recognition in the early 20th century for contributions to American music. Works included songs for various genres, showcasing skill in both composition and lyric writing. Actively involved in the music community, collaborated with notable musicians and participated in performances that highlighted her compositions. Education in music provided a foundation for a career that intertwined classical and popular styles, leaving a lasting influence in the American music scene.

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August Krogh

Zoologist & Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 15th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1949 75 years ago — 74 years old

Contributions to physiology included extensive research on the regulation of blood flow and the physiology of respiration. Conducted experiments on the capillary system and oxygen uptake in muscles. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1920 for investigations of mechanisms of respiration, particularly in small animals. Worked at the University of Copenhagen, influencing the fields of physiology and zoology through innovative research methods.

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