What Happened This Year 1879

Born in 1879

Mait Metsanurk

Estonian author and playwright
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1957 67 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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Lawrence Feuerbach

American shot putter Olympic Champion
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1911 113 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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Prince Sabahaddin

Sociologist and academic from Turkey
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1948 76 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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Moonlight Graham

Baseball player and physician
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1965 59 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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William McCormack

Australian politician, Queensland Premier
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1947 77 years ago — 68 years old

Served as the 22nd Premier of Queensland from 1932 to 1935. Played a significant role in the Labor Party and participated in various legislative initiatives. Focused on economic recovery during the Great Depression, emphasizing infrastructure projects and social welfare reforms. Led the party to significant electoral victories and was involved in numerous political discussions that shaped the state's policies.

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Leonid Mandelstam

Russian physicist and academic.
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1944 80 years ago — 65 years old

Contributions in the field of physics focused on optics and wave phenomena. Conducted significant research on light scattering and the theory of light propagation. Played a crucial role in the development of various optical instruments and techniques. Involved in academic mentorship, fostering the growth of future physicists through teaching and research guidance. Contributed to the scientific community through publications and collaborations with prominent researchers of the time.

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John Maclean

Scottish educator and socialist activist
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1923 101 years ago — 44 years old

An educator and revolutionary socialist activist contributed to the labor movement in Scotland. Focused on workers' rights, advocated for social change, and emphasized the importance of education and social justice. Engaged in political activities and became a prominent figure in the Scottish Labour Party, influencing socialist thought and practice. Continued to promote revolutionary ideas through public speaking and writing until death in 1923.

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Elizabeth Gunn

Pediatrician and medical educator
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1963 61 years ago — 84 years old

Practiced medicine in New Zealand, focusing on pediatrics. Contributed significantly to children's health and medical education in the country. Instrumental in the establishment of pediatric training programs. Advocated for improvements in child healthcare and welfare.

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Emperor Taishō of Japan

Emperor of Japan during Taishō Era
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1926 98 years ago — 47 years old

Ruled from 1912 to 1926, presiding over significant political changes and modernization efforts in Japan. The Taishō Era was marked by increased international engagement, democratic movements, and cultural shifts. Oversaw Japan's participation in World War I as an ally of the Entente Powers, contributing to growing national prestige. After his death, faced challenges during the ensuing Showa Era, which included turmoil leading to World War II.

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