What Happened This Year 1875

Born in 1875

Vladimir Vidrić

Croatian poet with notable poetry works
Born
April 20th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 34 years old

A prominent Croatian poet and lawyer, contributed significantly to Croatian literature during the early 20th century. Published several influential poetry collections that explored themes of nature, identity, and human emotion. Worked as a public servant, balancing a legal career with literary pursuits. His poetry captured the spirit of the time and is celebrated for its lyrical qualities and depth of emotion.

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Frederick Fane

English cricketer and test player
Born
April 27th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1960 64 years ago — 85 years old

Born in Ireland, a cricketer represented England in Test matches during the early 20th century. Active from 1900 to 1907, played primarily as a right-handed batsman and occasional wicketkeeper. Participated in multiple Test series, showcasing skills in both batting and fielding. Involved with county cricket, prominently played for Middlesex, contributing to the team's successes during his tenure.

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Rafael Sabatini

Novelist and short story writer
Born
April 29th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1950 75 years ago — 74 years old

Born in Italy and later becoming a British citizen, this writer specialized in historical novels. The body of work includes tales primarily set in the age of piracy and the Renaissance. Many works received acclaim for their engaging narratives and well-drawn characters. The writer's stories often feature swashbuckling adventures and themes of romanticism, establishing a unique voice in the literary world. 'Captain Blood' and 'Scaramouche' remain among the most recognized titles that showcase storytelling prowess and vivid historical settings.

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Dave Hall

American runner and Olympic medalist
Born
May 1st, 1875 149 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 97 years old

Competed in middle-distance running in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Achieved recognition at the 1900 Summer Olympics, winning a medal in the 800 meters event. Hall was part of the first wave of American athletes to participate in the modern Olympic Games, showcasing excellence in sprinting disciplines. Continued to contribute to athletics beyond competition as a coach and mentor for younger runners.

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Harriet Quimby

Pioneer aviator and screenwriter
Born
May 11th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1912 112 years ago — 37 years old

This individual became the first woman in the United States to earn a pilot's license in 1911. She flew her first flight across the English Channel in 1912, making her the first woman to complete such a journey. In addition to aviation, engaged in screenwriting and produced several films. Her contributions laid groundwork for future female aviators.

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Charles Holden

Architect, designed Bristol Central Library
Born
May 12th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1960 64 years ago — 84 years old

Significant contributions to architecture included the design of the Bristol Central Library. In addition to this project, involvement in various other architectural works including public buildings and transport infrastructure took place. The design philosophy emphasized functionality and aesthetics, reflecting the architectural trends of the early 20th century. Notable collaboration with the London Underground resulted in important station designs that integrated art and architecture.

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Alfred P. Sloan

Businessman and philanthropist, General Motors
Born
May 23rd, 1875 149 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1875, a prominent American businessman served as the president and later as the chairman of General Motors. Headed the company from 1923 to 1946 and played a pivotal role in its expansion, overseeing the introduction of innovative marketing strategies and management practices. Advocated for the development of a diversified range of automobiles tailored to different market segments, which contributed significantly to the automotive industry's structure. Established the Sloan Foundation in support of various educational and scientific initiatives.

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Robert Garrett

American discus thrower and shot putter
Born
May 24th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1961 64 years ago — 85 years old

Accomplished in athletics, contributions included participation in both the discus throw and shot put events. Competed in the 1896 Summer Olympics, becoming the first American to win an Olympic gold medal in the discus throw. Garnered accolades at the national level, establishing records that stood for significant periods.

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Giovanni Gentile

Italian philosopher and educator
Born
May 30th, 1875 149 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 69 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of idealist philosophy in Italy during the early 20th century. Served as the Minister of Education and promoted the reform of the education system, emphasizing the importance of the state in education. Authored several works on philosophy, including 'The Theory of Mind as Pure Act', which laid the foundation for his philosophical ideology known as Actual Idealism. Engaged in the philosophical debates of his time, influencing both contemporaries and later thinkers.

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