What Happened This Year 1879

Born in 1879

Lope K. Santos

Filipino lawyer and politician
Born
September 25th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1963 61 years ago — 83 years old

Played a significant role in Philippine politics during the early 20th century. Served as a member of the National Assembly and was appointed as a senator. Actively participated in the struggle for Philippine independence and advocated for workers' rights. Contributed to Philippine literature as an author, and his works influenced the socio-political landscape of the country.

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Cyril Scott

English poet and composer
Born
September 27th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1970 54 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1879, this individual was a significant figure in the realms of poetry and music. He produced a notable collection of poems and was active in the early 20th century. His compositions often drew inspiration from the natural world and reflected his unique style of harmony and melody. In addition to poetry, his contributions to piano music were substantial, including works that incorporated impressionistic elements. His creative output included pieces that showcased his ability to blend literary and musical art forms.

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Hans Hahn

Austrian mathematician and philosopher
Born
September 27th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1934 91 years ago — 55 years old

Engaged in mathematics and philosophy, contributing significantly to the foundations of functional analysis and topology. Developed key principles in the theory of sets and continuity. Worked alongside contemporaries in the Vienna Circle, influencing the field of mathematical logic. Authored several influential works, with emphasis on the interrelation between mathematics and philosophy.

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Frederick Schule

American hurdler and track coach
Born
September 27th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1962 62 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent hurdler and coach, contributed significantly to the field of track and field athletics. Competed in the 1900 Paris Olympics, winning a gold medal in the 110 meter hurdles. After his athletic career, focused on coaching, leading various teams and guiding numerous athletes to success at collegiate and national levels.

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Wallace Stevens

American poet and Pulitzer Prize winner
Born
October 2nd, 1879 145 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1955 69 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1879, a prominent American poet whose work bridged the gap between modernism and traditional forms. Employed as an insurance executive while creating a significant body of poetry, focusing on themes of imagination and reality. The collection 'Harmonium,' published in 1923, established a lasting reputation. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1955 for 'The Collected Poems of Wallace Stevens.' His poetry often employs vivid imagery and philosophical undertones, contributing to discussions on aesthetics and the role of imagination in life.

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Warner Oland

Actor notable for 'Charlie Chan' films
Born
October 3rd, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1938 87 years ago — 59 years old

Born in Sweden, an actor and singer rose to prominence in American cinema during the early 20th century. Oland is recognized for his portrayal of Charlie Chan, a fictional Chinese detective, in a series of films that captivated audiences between the 1920s and 1930s. This role, which showcased Oland's ability to blend drama and comedy, significantly contributed to his status as a leading actor of the time. In total, Oland appeared in twelve films as the character, solidifying the franchise's popularity. His career also included a range of performances in stage productions, demonstrating his versatility as a performer. Oland's contributions to film and theatre established him as an influential figure in early Hollywood.

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Francis Peyton Rous

Pathologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
October 5th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 91 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of virology and pathology. Rous conducted pioneering research that demonstrated the transmissibility of cancer in chickens through viruses. This groundbreaking work laid the foundation for modern cancer research and virology. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1966 for these contributions. Rous's studies on the Rous sarcoma virus informed future investigations into the viral origins of cancer in various species, including humans.

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Joe Hill

Labor activist and poet
Born
October 7th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1915 109 years ago — 36 years old

Born in Sweden, a notable labor activist and poet in the United States, contributed significantly to the labor movement. Emigrated to the U.S. in 1902, became involved with the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), advocating for workers' rights. Gained recognition for writings that emphasized labor struggles, including songs and poems. Became an iconic figure in labor circles. Executed in 1915 under controversial charges, sparking widespread protests and becoming a symbol of labor injustice.

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Huntley Gordon

Canadian-American actor in silent films
Born
October 8th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1956 68 years ago — 77 years old

Active during the silent film era, this actor appeared in numerous films. Gained recognition for performances in 'The Love Burglar' and 'The Phantom of the Opera'. Transitioned into sound films with notable roles in early talkies. Worked extensively in both Hollywood and Canadian cinema.

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