What Happened This Year 1880

Born in 1880

H. L. Mencken

American journalist and social critic
Born
September 12th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1956 69 years ago — 75 years old

A significant figure in American journalism, contributed extensively to the early 20th-century literary scene. Edited the Baltimore Evening Sun and founded the American Mercury magazine, a voice for literary and cultural criticism. Authored several books, including 'The American Language' and 'Prejudices', exploring language and societal norms. Critiqued American society, politics, and culture through sharp commentary and humor, aligning with the modernist movement. Played a key role in establishing a more vigorous and skeptical journalistic style in America.

Continue Reading

Jesse L. Lasky

Film Producer, Co-founder of Paramount Pictures
Born
September 13th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1958 67 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent film producer in the early 20th century, co-founded Paramount Pictures in 1912. Contributed significantly to the establishment of the studio system in Hollywood. Produced several influential films and played a key role in the development of the American film industry during its formative years.

Continue Reading

Archie Hahn

Runner and coach; Olympic gold medalist
Born
September 14th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1955 70 years ago — 74 years old

This individual was a prominent runner and coach in the early 20th century. Competed in the 1904 Summer Olympics, winning three gold medals in the 60 meters, 100 meters, and 200 meters events. Represented the United States in international competitions and contributed to the training of future athletes. Later served as a coach at various levels, influencing many in the sport of track and field.

Continue Reading

Benjamin

Russian bishop and missionary work
Born
September 14th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1961 63 years ago — 81 years old

Born in Russia, this individual served as a bishop and dedicated significant efforts to missionary work. The impact of the missions extended over several regions, emphasizing the spread of religious teachings and practices. Leadership in various community initiatives was also a component of the ecclesiastic role, often focusing on the spiritual development of congregations. This individual's work contributed to the religious landscape of the region during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

Alfred Noyes

English poet, noteworthy for 'The Highwayman'
Born
September 16th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1958 66 years ago — 77 years old

An English author, poet, and playwright experienced success through the early to mid-20th century. The work 'The Highwayman' became a classic, illustrating themes of love and tragedy set against a historical backdrop. Noyes contributed significantly to the literary world, producing numerous volumes of poetry and plays during his lifetime. His literary career spanned several decades, and he also faced challenges in adapting to changing literary tastes. In addition to poetry, he wrote essays and criticism, showcasing his broad literary interests. Noyes held various academic positions and engaged in public speaking, advocating for poetry education and appreciation. His contributions to the English literary canon remain studied and appreciated.

Continue Reading

Ildebrando Pizzetti

Composer and musicologist, 'Debora e Jaele'
Born
September 20th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1880, a prominent Italian composer and musicologist, contributed significantly to 20th-century music. Pizzetti studied at the Conservatorio Giuseppe Verdi in Milan and later became a professor there. He incorporated elements of Italian folk music into his works. His opera 'Debora e Jaele' gained acclaim for its innovative melodic structures. Pizzetti also authored influential essays on music, contributing to musicology through both composition and scholarly work. Engaged in various aspects of musical life, served as a critic and worked with notable institutions, furthering the appreciation of Italian opera.

Continue Reading

Christabel Pankhurst

English women's rights activist
Born
September 22nd, 1880 144 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1958 67 years ago — 77 years old

An influential activist focused on women's suffrage. Co-founded the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) in 1903, which employed more militant tactics to advocate for women's voting rights in the United Kingdom. Played a significant role in organizing events, rallies, and campaigns to raise awareness of women's issues. Participated in numerous hunger strikes while imprisoned for activism, drawing attention to the suffrage movement's cause. Advocated for women's rights throughout her life, even after the passage of the Representation of the People Act in 1918, which granted some women the right to vote.

Continue Reading

John Boyd Orr

Scottish biologist and Nobel laureate
Born
September 23rd, 1880 144 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1971 53 years ago — 90 years old

A Scottish biologist, physician, and politician, contributed significantly to the study of nutrition and food policy. Served as director-general of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Advocated for global food security and nutrition throughout the mid-20th century. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1949 for efforts to combat hunger and promote better nutrition worldwide.

Continue Reading

Sarah Knauss

Oldest verified American person
Born
September 24th, 1880 144 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1999 25 years ago — 119 years old

Achieved recognition as the oldest verified American person. Lived for 119 years and 97 days, becoming a super-centenarian. The longevity record spanned several decades, during which various historical events were witnessed and experienced. Celebrated numerous milestones, including multiple birthdays and family gatherings. Advocated for the importance of health and wellness throughout long life.

Continue Reading