What Happened This Year 1875

Born in 1875

Reynaldo Hahn

Composer of 'Romeo et Juliette'
Born
August 9th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1947 78 years ago — 72 years old

Born in Venezuela and later becoming a naturalized French citizen, this composer gained recognition for contributions to music, particularly in the realm of opera and art songs. He studied at the Paris Conservatory and became associated with notable figures in the Parisian cultural scene. His works often reflected a blend of French and Venezuelan elements. 'Romeo et Juliette', one of his significant operas, premiered in 1927. Aside from composition, activities included conducting and music criticism, which further established a prominent presence in the early 20th century music landscape. Engagements encompassed various orchestras and soirées, showcasing artistic collaboration.

Continue Reading

Alexandros Diomidis

Greek banker and Prime Minister
Born
January 3rd, 1875 150 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1950 74 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the 145th Prime Minister of Greece. Held the office during a challenging period, focusing on financial stabilization and governmental reform. Contributed to the modernization of the Greek banking system. Worked to strengthen Greece's economic foundations, impacting both public policy and the private sector.

Continue Reading

Gustav Flatow

German gymnast and Olympic medalist
Born
January 7th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 70 years old

Competed in gymnastics during the early 20th century, achieving notable success in international competitions. Participated in the 1896 Summer Olympics, contributing to the sport's development in Germany. Acquired several national titles and was a prominent figure in gymnastics, exemplifying the art and discipline of the sport.

Continue Reading

Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney

Sculptor and founder of Whitney Museum
Born
January 9th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1942 83 years ago — 67 years old

An American heiress and sculptor contributed significantly to the art world through both her artistic endeavors and her philanthropy. Whitney founded the Whitney Museum of American Art in 1931, which became a vital institution for showcasing American art. As a sculptor, her works often featured themes of the American experience and included public commissions that enhanced urban landscapes. Her passion for art also led to an extensive collection, which formed the foundation of the museum's holdings, focusing on 20th-century American artists.

Continue Reading

Issai Schur

German mathematician and academic
Born
January 10th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1941 84 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1875, a German mathematician made significant contributions to number theory and algebra. Schur's work focused on the theory of representations of groups and the theory of partitions. He served as a professor at several universities, influencing many students. Schur's research laid foundational work in various areas of mathematics, particularly in the understanding of symmetric functions and group representations.

Continue Reading

Reinhold Glière

Russian composer, 'The Red Poppy'
Born
January 11th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1956 68 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1875, a composer and academic contributed to Russian classical music through various works that blended Russian folk themes with Western classical structures. Studied at the Moscow Conservatory, later becoming a professor there. Composed symphonies, chamber music, and operas, demonstrating a unique style rooted in national tradition. 'The Red Poppy', an acclaimed ballet, gained recognition for its vibrant orchestration and thematic depth, reflecting the cultural zeitgeist of the era. Other significant compositions include symphonic poems and operas, notable for their lyrical qualities and rich harmonies. His influence extended through teaching, shaping future generations of composers.

Continue Reading

Albert Schweitzer

Physician and philosopher, Nobel laureate
Born
January 14th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1965 59 years ago — 90 years old

A physician and philosopher with an extensive career in medicine and ethics. Founded the Albert Schweitzer Hospital in Lambaréné, Gabon, dedicating a significant part of life to humanitarian work in Africa. Published numerous works on theology and philosophy, influencing moral thought. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1952 for efforts in promoting humanitarianism and peace.

Continue Reading

Thomas Burke

American sprinter and Olympic champion
Born
January 15th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1929 96 years ago — 54 years old

An accomplished sprinter, played a significant role in the early era of American track and field. Won two gold medals in the 1896 Olympics held in Athens, Greece, competing in the 100 meters and 400 meters events. Additionally served as a coach and contributed to journalism, sharing insights on the sport and athletic community. Had an active presence in promoting athletics during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Influenced the development of sprinting techniques and coaching methodologies.

Continue Reading

Leonor Michaelis

German biochemist and physician
Born
January 16th, 1875 150 years ago
Died
1949 76 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1875, a German biochemist and physician contributed significantly to the field of enzyme kinetics. Developed the Michaelis-Menten equation alongside Maud Menten, which describes the rate of enzymatic reactions. Engaged in research on the role of enzymes in metabolic processes and their interactions with substrates. Published multiple papers that advanced understanding of enzyme behavior and catalysis.

Continue Reading