What Happened This Year 1878

Born in 1878

Alfred Döblin

Physician and author of 'Berlin Alexanderplatz'
Born
August 10th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1957 67 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1878 in Poland, engaged in the field of medicine and literature. Authored the novel 'Berlin Alexanderplatz', which became a significant work in modernist literature, depicting the life of the urban poor in Berlin during the Weimar Republic. In addition to fiction, contributed to medical and political discussions through essays and articles. Emigrated to France during the rise of the Nazi regime and continued to write until his death in 1957.

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Reggie Duff

Australian cricketer; Test match player
Born
August 17th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1911 113 years ago — 33 years old

Born in 1878, a cricketer represented Australia at the international level. Played in the early years of Test cricket, participating in significant series that helped establish the sport in Australia. Made notable contributions as an opening batsman and was recognized for his aggressive playing style. Competed in several Ashes series, contributing to the team's efforts against England.

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Manuel L. Quezon

Filipino politician and lawyer, 2nd President
Born
August 19th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1944 80 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the 2nd President of the Philippines from 1935 to 1944, leading the country during its transition from a U.S. territory to an independent nation. Established a national language and emphasized education and infrastructure development. Played a significant role in establishing the Commonwealth government. Advocated for the rights of Filipinos and worked towards national sovereignty. Quezon's administration faced challenges during World War II, including the Japanese occupation.

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Pyotr Nikolayevich Wrangel

Russian general in the Civil War
Born
August 27th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1928 96 years ago — 49 years old

A military leader during the Russian Civil War, held significant commands for the White Army. Led anti-Bolshevik forces in southern Russia and took command of the Volunteer Army in 1917. Established a government in Crimea in 1920 but ultimately fled when the Red Army advanced. Contributed to military strategies and operations against Bolshevism before exile.

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George Whipple

Pathologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 28th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1976 49 years ago — 97 years old

A physician and pathologist contributed significantly to medical science. Conducted pioneering research in the field of blood and its components, particularly the role of the liver in red blood cell production. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1934 for his work on the metabolism of the liver. Worked at the University of Rochester, serving in various capacities and influencing medical education and research.

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Frank Jarvis

American runner and triple jumper
Born
August 31st, 1878 146 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1933 91 years ago — 54 years old

Competed in the early 20th century as a runner and triple jumper. Achieved considerable success in various athletic events, particularly in the triple jump, and set records at national competitions. Participated in the Olympic Games and earned recognition for outstanding performances. Contributed to the popularity of track and field during his era through competitive successes.

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J. F. C. Fuller

British general and military historian
Born
September 1st, 1878 146 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 88 years old

Born in England in 1878, this individual served as a General during World War I and later became a historian specializing in military theory and strategy. His writings contributed to the development of armored warfare concepts and modern military tactics. He attended the Royal Military Academy and had a significant influence on military thought throughout the 20th century. This general’s theories on mechanized warfare were realized during World War II, showcasing the effectiveness of tanks in combat. He also engaged in numerous publications that explored the philosophy and strategy of warfare.

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Tullio Serafin

Italian conductor and opera director
Born
September 1st, 1878 146 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1968 57 years ago — 89 years old

Contributed significantly to the world of opera as a conductor and director. Studied at the Conservatorio Giuseppe Verdi in Milan. Conducted numerous productions in various opera houses across Europe. Played a crucial role in reviving works by composers such as Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini. Served as the music director at the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Worked with renowned singers, enhancing their performances through expert direction. Assisted in the establishment of important operatic traditions during the early to mid-20th century.

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Princess Alexandra of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha

Royal Princess and British Duchess
Born
September 1st, 1878 146 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1942 82 years ago — 63 years old

Born into German nobility, held the title of Princess of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Married Edward VII of the United Kingdom, becoming the Duchess of Cornwall. Served as a member of the British royal family during a period of significant social change. Engaged in various charitable works and maintained numerous royal duties throughout her life. Passed away in 1942.

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