What Happened This Year 1879

Born in 1879

Jacob Gade

Danish violinist and composer of tango
Born
November 29th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1963 62 years ago — 83 years old

A renowned violinist and composer, primarily active in the early 20th century. Gade gained significant recognition for his contributions to the genre of tango music. His composition 'Jalousie' became immensely popular worldwide and remains a classic. Trained in classical music, Gade blended traditional styles with contemporary influences to create memorable pieces. He performed extensively throughout Europe, showcasing his skills as a virtuoso violinist. Through performances and compositions, he left an enduring legacy in the music community.

Continue Reading

Charles Hutchison

American actor and director of films
Born
December 3rd, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1949 76 years ago — 70 years old

An American actor, director, and screenwriter, active during the silent film era. Contributed significantly to the film industry through both acting and directing, with participation in numerous productions. Started career in the 1910s and became associated with various studios, including Vitagraph and Pathé. Directed several films and gained recognition for screenwriting in the late 1910s and 1920s. Helped transition narratives and styles during the evolution of early cinema.

Continue Reading

Kafū Nagai

Japanese author and playwright
Born
December 3rd, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 80 years old

An author and playwright contributed significantly to Japanese literature during the early 20th century. Involved in the literary movement of the Taishō period, focused on the themes of modernity and urban life in Tokyo. Works often explored complex human emotions and the tension between tradition and modernity. His writing style was characterized by its poetic language and detailed observations of urban society. Authored several acclaimed novels and plays, with a notable emphasis on the lives of individuals navigating the changing societal landscape of Japan.

Continue Reading

Donald Matheson Sutherland

Canadian politician and physician
Born
December 3rd, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 91 years old

Served as the 5th Minister of National Defence in Canada. Practiced medicine prior to entering politics. Contributed to military policy during a time of global conflict. Managed various defense matters and oversaw military organization and strategy during tenure.

Continue Reading

Albert Asher

New Zealand rugby player
Born
December 3rd, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 86 years old

Born in New Zealand, this rugby player participated in the early years of the sport. Represented the national team in international competitions, contributing to the teams' strategies and successes. Played primarily as a forward, showcasing skills that furthered the evolution of the game. Competed in the inaugural Rugby World Cup era, engaging in matches against teams from around the world.

Continue Reading

Clyde Vernon Cessna

Aircraft manufacturer and businessman
Born
December 5th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1954 70 years ago — 74 years old

Established the Cessna Aircraft Corporation in 1927, significantly contributing to the advancement of general aviation. Cessna designed and built the first Cessna aircraft, the Cessna Model A, and later produced iconic aircraft models like the Cessna 172, widely regarded for its reliability and performance. Played a key role in promoting private flying and was instrumental in popularizing light aircraft in the United States.

Continue Reading

Rudolf Friml

Czech-American composer and pianist
Born
December 7th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1972 52 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1879, a pianist and composer contributed significantly to American musical theater. Studied at the Prague Conservatory and gained recognition for operettas that blended classical and popular styles. Established a successful career in the United States, composing music for theater productions. Collaborated with prominent figures in the industry, creating lasting works that entertained many audiences.

Continue Reading

Paul Klee

Painter and educator, notable for unique style
Born
December 18th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1940 84 years ago — 60 years old

An influential painter and educator, this artist contributed significantly to the development of modern art in the early 20th century. With a diverse body of work, he utilized color theory and expression to create pieces that blend abstraction and figuration. He was involved with the Bauhaus school, where he taught and shared innovative artistic practices. His style evolved throughout his career, embracing influences from expressionism, cubism, and surrealism. Key works include 'Twittering Machine' and 'Senecio', showcasing a distinctive visual language. Exhibitions and accolades during and posthumously established a legacy in the art world, influencing future generations of artists.

Continue Reading

Alexandrine of Mecklenburg-Schwerin

Queen of Denmark and Norway
Born
December 24th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1879, she served as the Queen Consort of Denmark and Norway through her marriage to King Christian X of Denmark. Her reign included the tumultuous period surrounding World War I, and she became an important figure in promoting national unity and welfare. She was actively involved in various charitable initiatives and cultural causes across both nations. Her commitment to public welfare and her royal duties marked her period as queen.

Continue Reading