What Happened This Year 1879

Born in 1879

Shunroku Hata

Japanese field marshal and politician
Born
July 26th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 83 years old

Held the position of Minister of War during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Served in various military roles throughout a career in the Imperial Japanese Army, rising to the rank of field marshal. Played a significant part in Japan's military operations in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. After the war, contributed to the post-war political landscape as a member of the Japanese government.

Continue Reading

Stefan Filipkiewicz

Polish Painter and Art Innovator
Born
July 28th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1944 80 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1879, this Polish painter specialized in post-impressionist and modernist styles. The artist contributed significantly to the Polish art scene through exhibitions and artistic movements. His work reflected the changing landscape of Polish society during the early 20th century, showcasing both urban and rural themes. Filipkiewicz's pieces often focused on color and light, influencing future generations of Polish artists. Active until the mid-20th century, he played a role in promoting Polish art abroad.

Continue Reading

Lucy Burns

American activist & co-founder of NWP
Born
July 28th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 87 years old

An American activist played a significant role in the women's suffrage movement. Co-founded the National Woman's Party in 1916, focusing on the passage of the Equal Rights Amendment. Organized numerous protests and demonstrations, including the 1917 picketing of the White House. Advocated for women's rights and worked alongside other prominent suffragists. Instrumental in mobilizing support for the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote in 1920.

Continue Reading

Johannes Kotze

South African cricketer and Test player
Born
August 7th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 52 years old

Born in South Africa in 1879, a cricketer represented South Africa in the early years of Test cricket. Debuted in 1906 and played a total of 4 Test matches until 1907. Primarily played as a right-arm fast bowler and a right-handed batsman. Contributed to the team with crucial performances in his limited appearances, helping establish South Africa as a competitive force in international cricket during its formative years.

Continue Reading

Emiliano Zapata

Mexican revolutionary general
Born
August 8th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1919 105 years ago — 39 years old

Led the Mexican Revolution starting in 1910, advocating for agrarian reform and the rights of peasant farmers. Commanded the Liberation Army of the South and became a key figure in the struggle against the Díaz regime. Formulated the Plan of Ayala, which called for land redistribution. Developed a reputation for guerrilla tactics and mobilized large rural communities to support the revolutionary cause. Assassinated in 1919, leading to the continuation of the agrarian struggle in Mexico.

Continue Reading

John Willcock

Australian politician and Premier
Born
August 9th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1956 68 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the 15th Premier of Western Australia from 1947 to 1953. Held the position during a period of significant post-war reconstruction and development. Undertook initiatives to improve infrastructure and education within the state. Succeeded in leading the Labor Party in Western Australia and contributed to various social policies during tenure.

Continue Reading

Ethel Barrymore

American actress and theater performer
Born
August 15th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1959 65 years ago — 79 years old

A celebrated stage and film actress, contributions spanned several decades from the late 19th to mid-20th centuries. Gained acclaim for performances in prominent plays and movies, particularly in productions such as 'The Corn is Green' and 'The Royal Family'. Renowned for a commanding presence and emotional depth in roles, established a legacy within American theater, setting standards for future generations of actors. Received several awards for performances, including a special Academy Award.

Continue Reading

Alexander Rodzyanko

Russian general during World War I
Born
August 18th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1970 54 years ago — 90 years old

Served as a general in the Russian Army during World War I. Held the position of Commander of the Petrograd Military District. Played a crucial role in the Russian Revolution of 1917, where leadership decisions significantly influenced the course of events. After the fall of the Tsarist regime, moved to the United States and continued to be active in expatriate affairs.

Continue Reading

Claude Grahame-White

English pilot and aviation pioneer
Born
August 21st, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 80 years old

An aviation pioneer and engineer, contributions to early flight technology included designing and building pioneering aircraft. Played a key role in the promotion of aviation during the early 20th century. Achievements included participating in the first aircraft flight across the English Channel. Founded the first aviation company in Britain and established the first British flying school.

Continue Reading