What Happened This Year 1879

Born in 1879

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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Yunus Nadi Abalıoğlu

Turkish journalist and newspaper founder
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1945 80 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent Turkish journalist and founder of the newspaper 'Cumhuriyet', focused on advocating for democracy and secularism in Turkey. Established 'Cumhuriyet' in 1924, contributing significantly to the Turkish press. Played a key role in shaping public opinion during the early years of the Republic of Turkey, emphasizing the importance of modern journalism and freedom of expression. Worked as a member of the Turkish National Assembly, participating in political discourse and developments.

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Reşat Çiğiltepe

Turkish Colonel of War of Independence
Born
1879 146 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1922 102 years ago — 43 years old

Served as a colonel during the Turkish War of Independence. Led troops in various significant battles to secure Turkish sovereignty. Played a crucial role in establishing the Republic of Turkey. Participated in military strategies that contributed to the success of nationalist forces against occupying powers.

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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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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 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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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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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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