What Happened This Year 1878

Born in 1878

Agner Krarup Erlang

Danish mathematician and engineer
Born
January 1st, 1878 147 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1929 96 years ago — 51 years old

Contributed to the field of probability theory and queuing theory, establishing foundations for telecommunications and traffic engineering. Developed mathematical tools to analyze traffic flow and system congestion. Formulated Erlang's formula, which became a crucial element in telecommunications for determining the number of lines needed for a given number of calls. Worked at the Telephone Company in Copenhagen, providing insights that greatly improved telephone service efficiency.

Continue Reading

Jaakko Mäki

Finnish politician and legislator
Born
January 2nd, 1878 147 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1938 87 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1878, this individual became a significant figure in Finnish politics during the early 20th century. Participated actively in the Finnish Parliament, representing the interests of the working class. Contributed to the development of social policies and labor rights during a transformative period in Finnish history. Engaged in various political reforms aimed at improving the quality of life for citizens. Held a prominent role in shaping the social democratic movement in Finland.

Continue Reading

Mannathu Padmanabha Pillai

Indian activist and founder of NSS
Born
January 2nd, 1878 147 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 92 years old

Founded the Nair Service Society in 1914, aiming to uplift the Nair community. Worked towards social reform and education, advocating for the rights and welfare of the Nair people in Kerala. Contributed to the movements for socio-political reform in the region, promoting unity among various social classes. Instrumental in addressing issues of caste discrimination and worked closely with other reformists to enhance the social standing of marginalized communities.

Continue Reading

Augustus John

Welsh painter and illustrator of landscapes
Born
January 4th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1878, a prominent painter and illustrator emerged in the early 20th century in Wales. This individual studied at the Royal Academy Schools and became known for portraiture and depictions of the Welsh countryside. The artist's style combined elements of impressionism and symbolism, leading to a distinctive personal aesthetic. Numerous exhibitions showcased this individual's work, including those at the Leicester Galleries in London. Engagements in the art community included associations with the New English Art Club and contributions to various art publications. This artist's contributions extended to illustrations for literature, with notable works for the poetry of W.B. Yeats and the novels of Thomas Hardy. The artist's influence persisted in the promotion of Welsh culture through art.

Continue Reading

A. E. Coppard

English poet and short story writer
Born
January 4th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1957 68 years ago — 79 years old

Coppard was an English poet and short story writer. His literary career included contributions to various periodicals and the production of several collections of poetry and short stories. Coppard's work often explored themes of nature and human experience with a unique style. He published notable works that gained attention during his lifetime, receiving critical acclaim for his contributions to literature. His narratives often conveyed rich imagery and vivid detail, showcasing his command of language. In 1930, he received the Hawthornden Prize for his poetry, highlighting recognition within literary circles.

Continue Reading

Carl Sandburg

American poet and historian
Born
January 6th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1967 57 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1878, this American poet and historian contributed significantly to literature and the understanding of American history. His works often reflected the struggles and triumphs of everyday people. Sandburg gained recognition for a unique style that combined free verse with vivid imagery and natural speech patterns. His most renowned collection, 'Chicago Poems', illustrated the dynamics of urban life in America. In addition to poetry, he authored a comprehensive biography of Abraham Lincoln, which received critical acclaim for its detailed portrayal of the 16th president's life and times.

Continue Reading

Adeline Genée

Ballerina and choreographer of 'Swan Lake'
Born
January 6th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 92 years old

Born in Denmark, became a prominent ballerina in the early 20th century, performing extensively in the United Kingdom. Played a significant role in popularizing ballet in Britain. Served as the principal dancer for the Imperial Russian Ballet and the Royal Ballet. Contributed to ballet education as a teacher and choreographer, influencing future generations of dancers. Actively participated in various productions and was recognized for her performances both as a dancer and a choreographer.

Continue Reading

John McLean

American hurdler and football coach
Born
January 10th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1861 163 years ago — -17 years old

Competed in hurdles and played football during college at the University of Wisconsin. Transitioned into coaching football after an athletic career, contributing to the development of the sport at various institutions. Served as head football coach at multiple colleges, including the University of Wisconsin and Butler University.

Continue Reading

Theodoros Pangalos

Greek politician and military leader
Born
January 11th, 1878 147 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1952 73 years ago — 74 years old

Served as a prominent general and politician in Greece during the early 20th century. Held the position of President of Greece from 1926 to 1929. Participated in military campaigns and was involved in the political landscape during a tumultuous period in Greek history. Took part in the Greco-Turkish War and held various governmental positions, shaping the political environment of the era.

Continue Reading