What Happened This Year 1879

Born in 1879

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.

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Sydney Greenstreet

Actor from 'Casablanca' and 'The Maltese Falcon'
Born
December 27th, 1879 145 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1954 71 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 145 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 145 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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Yitzhak Gruenbaum

Polish-Israeli journalist and politician
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1970 54 years ago — 91 years old

Born in Poland, played a significant role in the establishment of the State of Israel. Served as the first Minister of Internal Affairs from 1948 to 1950. Was an influential journalist, advocating for Jewish rights and immigration to Israel. Contributed to the writing of the Israeli Declaration of Independence in 1948. Involved in various political activities within the Israeli government throughout his career.

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Johan Falkberget

Norwegian author of folk tales
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1967 58 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent Norwegian author wrote several works reflecting the life and culture of rural Norway. Worked primarily in the genres of novels, short stories, and plays. Gained recognition for a literary portrayal of mining communities and the struggles of the working class. Contributed significantly to Norwegian literature through depictions of nature and the human condition. His notable works often explore themes of heritage, identity, and the natural environment.

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Leon Trotsky

Political theorist and Red Army founder
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1940 84 years ago — 61 years old

A Russian revolutionary and theorist, played a key role in the Bolshevik Revolution. Served as the People's Commissar for Foreign Affairs and later as the founder and commander of the Red Army during the Russian Civil War. Advocated for permanent revolution and opposed the rise of Stalin. Exiled from the Soviet Union in 1929, continued to be an influential Marxist thinker and critic of Stalinism until his assassination in Mexico City in 1940.

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René Lefebvre

French businessman and entrepreneur
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1944 81 years ago — 65 years old

Founded and developed a successful enterprise in the textile industry. Expanded operations across France and established significant market presence. Provided employment opportunities and contributed to the local economy.

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Dezső Lauber

Hungarian golfer and architect
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1966 58 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent golfer, tennis player, and architect from Hungary. Contributed to the architecture field while also being active in sports. Played at a high level in both golf and tennis. Participated in various competitions throughout the career, showcasing athletic prowess along with a commitment to design and architecture.

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