What Happened This Year 1879

Born in 1879

Alexandrine of Mecklenburg-Schwerin

Queen of Denmark and Norway
Born
December 24th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
1952 74 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.

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Sydney Greenstreet

Actor from 'Casablanca' and 'The Maltese Falcon'
Born
December 27th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1954 72 years ago — 74 years old

An English-American actor, recognized for distinctive performances in film during Hollywood's Golden Age. Active mainly in the 1940s, portrayed memorable characters that showcased a commanding presence. Gained prominence through stage work prior to transitioning to film. Noteworthy for contributions to film noir and dramatic cinema, particularly in classic titles that have remained significant within the genre. Continued to act until the early 1950s, leaving a lasting legacy in the film industry.

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Billy Mitchell

General and aviation pioneer
Born
December 29th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1936 89 years ago — 56 years old

Served as a United States Army general and became a leading advocate for air power in the military. Played a pivotal role in the development of strategic bombing doctrine. Advocated for the formation of an independent air force, emphasizing the importance of aviation in modern warfare. In the 1920s, conducted numerous tests showcasing the capabilities of bombers against naval targets, leading to significant shifts in military strategy. Faced opposition from military leaders and retired in 1926, continuing to promote air power until death in 1936.

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Ramana Maharshi

Indian guru renowned for self-inquiry
Born
December 30th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1950 75 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent spiritual teacher in India, focused on the practice of self-inquiry as a means to attain enlightenment. Established an ashram at Arunachala, which became a center for spiritual seekers. Advocated for the idea of self-realization through direct experience rather than through religious rituals or scriptures. Wrote several texts, including 'Talks with Sri Ramana Maharshi', which compile conversations with disciples and seekers. His teachings continue to influence spiritual paths worldwide.

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Moonlight Graham

Baseball player and physician
Born
1879 147 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1965 60 years ago — 86 years old

Played as an outfielder for the New York Giants in Major League Baseball. His career spanned a single game in 1905, after which he pursued a career in medicine. Graham served as a physician in Chisholm, Minnesota, where he focused on improving healthcare in the community.

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Prince Sabahaddin

Sociologist and academic from Turkey
Born
1879 147 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1948 77 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent sociologist and academic, this individual contributed significantly to social sciences and political thought. Engaged in various educational reforms, advocated for liberal ideas and modernization in Turkey. Involved in the establishment of several institutions that sought to promote social welfare and education. Emigrated to Switzerland, where continued scholarly work on sociology and political science. Published several works addressing social issues and contributed to intellectual discourse of the time.

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Lawrence Feuerbach

American shot putter Olympic Champion
Born
1879 147 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1911 114 years ago — 32 years old

Competed in shot put events during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Achieved significant success at the 1900 Summer Olympics, where a gold medal was secured in shot put. Established several American records in the sport, contributing to the development of shot put techniques. His athletic career included participation in various national competitions, further solidifying a reputation as a leading figure in American athletics during that era.

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Mait Metsanurk

Estonian author and playwright
Born
1879 147 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1957 68 years ago — 78 years old

Estonian author and playwright contributed significantly to Estonian literature. His works often reflected the struggles and aspirations of the Estonian people. Played a crucial role in the development of Estonian drama during the early 20th century. Many of his plays were performed in theaters across Estonia, showcasing the country's cultural heritage. His literary style combined realism with elements of national identity, resonating deeply with audiences.

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Konstantinos Maleas

Greek painter of landscapes and seascapes
Born
1879 147 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1928 97 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent Greek painter specializing in landscapes and seascapes. Associated with the artistic movement in Greece during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, created works that reflected the beauty and unique qualities of the Greek landscape. Developed a distinctive style characterized by vibrant colors and expressive brushwork. Contributed significantly to the 'Thalassography' movement, which focused on marine themes in Greek art, and drew inspiration from the natural surroundings of the Aegean Sea.

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