What Happened This Year 1878

Born in 1878

Paul Reynaud

French politician, Prime Minister of France
Born
October 15th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1966 58 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 118th Prime Minister of France during World War II. Took office shortly before the German invasion in 1940 and faced significant challenges in response to the crisis. Advocated for strong military resistance against Nazi forces. Resigned following the fall of France and fled to London, where he continued to support the Free French efforts.

Continue Reading

James Truslow Adams

American historian and author of books
Born
October 18th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
1949 76 years ago — 71 years old

An American historian and author, contributed significantly to the understanding of American history and culture. Played a pivotal role in defining the concept of the 'American Dream' through writings. Authored several influential books including 'The Epic of America' which outlined the ideals and aspirations of the United States. Focused on the development of American society from the colonial period to the 20th century, emphasizing the themes of democracy and opportunity.

Continue Reading

Jaan Lattik

Estonian politician and pastor
Born
October 23rd, 1878 146 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1967 57 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the 9th Estonian Minister of Foreign Affairs during significant changes in the country. Actively participated in the development of Estonia's foreign policy following its independence in 1918. Held various positions within the Estonian government and civic organizations, contributing to nation-building efforts in the early 20th century. Was involved in church leadership and maintained a strong connection with the Estonian Lutheran Church.

Continue Reading

William Kissam Vanderbilt II

American lieutenant and sailor
Born
October 26th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1944 81 years ago — 65 years old

Served as a lieutenant during World War I and contributed to naval aviation efforts in the United States. Established an automobile and yacht racing legacy, leading the Vanderbilt Cup race for many years. Additionally, was an active participant in marine conservation initiatives and supported the development of the North Shore of Long Island's real estate.

Continue Reading

Konrad Mägi

Estonian painter and educator
Born
November 1st, 1878 146 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1925 99 years ago — 46 years old

Born in Estonia, this painter significantly contributed to the early 20th-century art scene. Mägi studied at the Imperial Academy of Arts in Saint Petersburg and later in Paris. Influenced by post-impressionism, his works often depicted the natural landscapes of his homeland. The artist spent considerable time teaching, fostering a new generation of Estonian artists. His paintings are characterized by their vibrant colors and expressive brushwork, capturing the essence of the Estonian landscape and cultural identity.

Continue Reading

Carlos Saavedra Lamas

Argentinian politician and Nobel laureate
Born
November 1st, 1878 146 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1959 65 years ago — 80 years old

An academic and politician from Argentina, Lamas served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship and played a significant role in peace negotiations during the Chaco War between Bolivia and Paraguay. He contributed to various international diplomatic efforts and focused on social and educational reforms within Argentina. Lamas received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1936 for his advocacy of peace and disarmament, emphasizing the need for international cooperation. His engagement in promoting peace continued throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Lise Meitner

Physicist involved in nuclear fission
Born
November 7th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
October 27th, 1968 56 years ago — 89 years old

Austrian-Swedish physicist contributed to nuclear physics and radioactivity. Participated in the discovery of nuclear fission, a process that led to the development of nuclear energy and atomic bombs. Worked alongside Otto Hahn in Berlin before fleeing to Sweden during the rise of the Nazi regime. Contributed to scientific research at the Manne Siegbahn Institute. Despite being overlooked for the Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to Hahn in 1944, continued to be recognized for contributions to physics throughout later years. Held various academic positions and contributed to scientific literature until death.

Continue Reading

Dorothea Bate

Palaeontologist specializing in prehistoric mammals
Born
November 8th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 73 years old

Specialized in the study of prehistoric mammals, particularly from the Pleistocene epoch. Conducted extensive research on small fauna from the fossil records in the Mediterranean region. Worked on the excavation and identification of bones recovered from various sites. Contributed to the understanding of extinct species through detailed analyses and publications.

Continue Reading

Ahn Changho

Korean activist and politician
Born
November 9th, 1878 146 years ago
Died
1938 87 years ago — 60 years old

Significant contributions made to the Korean independence movement during the early 20th century. Actively involved in various organizations advocating for Korea's freedom from Japanese colonial rule. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Korean National Association, which promoted Korean nationalism and the fight for independence. Worked alongside other prominent figures in the movement, emphasizing the importance of education and self-determination for Koreans. His efforts were instrumental in rallying support for the cause both domestically and internationally.

Continue Reading