What Happened This Year 1880

Born in 1880

Franz Marc

German painter and expressionist artist
Born
February 8th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1916 109 years ago — 36 years old

An influential painter of the early 20th century, this artist was a central figure in the German Expressionist movement. His works frequently featured animals and nature, utilizing bold colors and abstract forms to convey emotion. Participated in pivotal exhibitions, including the First Exhibition of the Blaue Reiter in 1911, which he co-founded. Works often focused on animals, reflecting a deep spiritual connection with nature. His life was cut short in World War I when he died in battle at the age of 36.

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Lipót Fejér

Hungarian mathematician and academic
Born
February 9th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1959 65 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to functional analysis, particularly in the study of bounded linear operators. Worked extensively on the theory of orthogonal functions and series. Established results related to Fourier series and provided insights into the convergence of such series. Served as a professor in Budapest and influenced the field through both teaching and research.

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George Preca

Maltese priest and saint
Born
February 12th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 82 years old

A Maltese priest who founded the Society of Christian Doctrine, dedicated to religious education. Preca was ordained as a priest in 1906 and began his mission to educate young people in the faith, leveraging various methods including the use of biblical teachings. His efforts contributed to the spiritual development of many in Malta. In 1947, Preca received the title of Servant of God, and in 2007, he was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church, recognizing his commitment to education and spirituality.

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John L. Lewis

Union leader and miner advocate
Born
February 12th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1969 56 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1880, this individual became a prominent labor leader in the United States. He played a significant role in the labor movement, serving as the president of the United Mine Workers of America from 1920 to 1960. Under his leadership, the union fought for miners' rights, better wages, and improved working conditions. This leader was instrumental in organizing large-scale strikes and advocating for labor policies. His influence extended to establishing the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO), which sought to unite workers across different industries. This individual remained a key figure during critical periods of labor unrest, often seen negotiating on behalf of miners.

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Dimitrie Gusti

Romanian sociologist and historian
Born
February 13th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 75 years old

A significant figure in Romanian sociology and ethnology, contributed to the understanding of rural society through empirical research. Established the first Romanian sociological school, fostering development in social sciences. Developed the method of 'socio-cultural research', which aimed to connect theory with practical analysis of Romanian rural communities. Served as a professor at the University of Bucharest and held influential roles in cultural institutions. Authored multiple works on sociology and ethnology, providing critical insights into Romanian culture and society.

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Álvaro Obregón

Mexican General, 39th President
Born
February 19th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1928 96 years ago — 48 years old

A prominent Mexican general and politician, played a critical role in the Mexican Revolution and later served as the 39th President of Mexico from 1920 to 1924. Oversaw significant reforms in land and labor policies during the presidency. Strengthened the nation after years of conflict and worked towards stabilizing the country. His administration focused on the foundation of a modern state, which included education programs and infrastructure projects. Actively engaged in foreign relations to improve Mexico's standing internationally, particularly with the United States.

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Jacques d'Adelswärd-Fersen

French author and poet known for poetry
Born
February 20th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1923 101 years ago — 43 years old

Born in France, one of the significant figures in early 20th-century literature. Published various works including poetry that explored themes of beauty and desire. His writings were marked by a lyrical style and emotional depth, influencing later generations of poets. Also known for his life experiences, which included time spent in exile due to his sexual orientation. His literary contributions continued to be a point of interest for scholars examining queerness in literature and the arts.

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Eric Lemming

Swedish javelin thrower and Olympian
Born
February 22nd, 1880 145 years ago
Died
June 5th, 1930 94 years ago — 50 years old

Born in Sweden, a javelin thrower excelled in the early 20th century. Achieved fame by winning a gold medal at the 1908 Olympic Games held in London. Competed in multiple international events, setting several records in the sport throughout the career. Retired from athletics after establishing a significant legacy in javelin throwing, contributing to the development of techniques used in the event.

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Kenneth Edgeworth

Irish astronomer and theorist
Born
February 26th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 92 years old

Contributed to the understanding of the solar system and celestial mechanics. Worked on the theory of the Kuiper Belt, an area of the solar system beyond Neptune populated by many small icy bodies. Engaged in academic pursuits and published various papers, influencing future astronomical research. Involved in the establishment of the field of planetary science, bringing attention to the significance of small bodies in the solar system.

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