What Happened This Year 1881

Born in 1881

Larry McLean

Baseball player and catcher for Reds
Born
July 18th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
1921 104 years ago — 40 years old

Born in 1881, this Canadian-American baseball player played as a catcher in Major League Baseball. McLean debuted with the Cincinnati Reds and later played for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs. He was active in the league from 1903 to 1910. Over his career, he became notable for his defensive skills behind the plate and contributed to the teams he played for with both offense and defense. His tenure in professional baseball included participation in key games and seasons.

Continue Reading

Augusta Fox Bronner

Psychologist specializing in juvenile psychology
Born
July 22nd, 1881 143 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1966 58 years ago — 85 years old

An American psychologist, specialization focused on juvenile psychology. Contributed to the understanding of child mental health and development. Engaged in research that influenced educational practices and psychological assessments for children. Served in several professional organizations dedicated to the field of psychology and education, emphasizing the importance of early intervention.

Continue Reading

Hans Fischer

German chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
July 27th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1945 79 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent chemist contributed significantly to the understanding of heme and porphyrins. Developed methods for spectroscopic analysis and synthesis of these compounds. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1930 for work related to the structure and properties of hemoglobin and chlorophyll. Served as a professor at various universities, impacting the field of organic chemistry through teaching and research.

Continue Reading

Smedley Butler

U.S. general, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
July 30th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1940 84 years ago — 58 years old

A distinguished United States Marine Corps general, recognized for bravery and leadership during the early 20th century. Served in various military engagements including the Philippine-American War, World War I, and the Banana Wars. Awarded the Medal of Honor twice for valor in combat, specifically during the battles of Vera Cruz and the Haitian Campaign. After retiring, became vocal about anti-war sentiments and criticized U.S. military intervention abroad, writing extensively on military-related issues.

Continue Reading

Otto Toeplitz

Mathematician and academic
Born
August 1st, 1881 143 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 59 years old

Contributions included work in topology and functional analysis. Authored significant texts on mathematics and education. Served in various academic positions, influencing mathematical research and teaching methods. Engaged in promoting mathematics in educational institutions, particularly in Germany. Published numerous articles and monographs throughout his career, addressing key mathematical concepts and theories.

Continue Reading

Alexander Fleming

Scottish biologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 6th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1955 70 years ago — 73 years old

A Scottish biologist, pharmacologist, and botanist, contributed significantly to the field of medicinal chemistry. Discovered penicillin in 1928, which paved the way for the development of antibiotics. His work transformed medical practice and saved countless lives. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1945 alongside Howard Florey and Ernst Boris Chain for the discovery and development of penicillin. This discovery marked the beginning of modern antibiotics and has had enduring implications in medicine.

Continue Reading

Louella Parsons

Journalist and Hollywood columnist
Born
August 6th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1972 52 years ago — 91 years old

Parsons began her career in journalism with the New York Evening Journal. She transitioned to Hollywood, where she became a prominent gossip columnist. Her column, which appeared in numerous newspapers, provided insight into the lives of celebrities and the film industry. Parsons was influential in shaping public perception of Hollywood figures, and her connections allowed her to break many significant stories in the entertainment world. Throughout her career, Parsons contributed to various magazines and served as a radio host, further extending her reach and influence in the media.

Continue Reading

Leo Carrillo

American actor and voice artist
Born
August 6th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1961 63 years ago — 80 years old

Active in the early to mid-20th century, this actor gained prominence for roles in film and television. Appeared in the 1950s television series 'The Cisco Kid,' portraying the character Pancho. Worked in multiple genres, including Westerns, and lent his voice to animated projects, contributing to the cultural landscape of the era.

Continue Reading

Paul Ludwig Ewald von Kleist

German field marshal and military leader
Born
August 8th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1954 70 years ago — 73 years old

Graduated from the Prussian Military Academy, entered the German Army in the early 20th century, and rose through the ranks during World War I. In World War II, served as a commander in several significant campaigns, particularly in the invasion of Poland and the Battle of Stalingrad. Led German forces during the successful campaigns in France and Russia, demonstrating strategic military capability. Contributed to the development of armored warfare tactics. Commanded the 1st Panzer Army and later the Army Group Center.

Continue Reading