What Happened This Year 1881

Born in 1881

Ye Gongchuo

Chinese politician and poet
Born
November 24th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1968 56 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent figure in early 20th century China, held various political roles during a transformative period. Contributed to political discourse through poetry and calligraphy. Engaged in the cultural movements of the time, advocating for modernization and reform. Participated in significant political events that shaped the nation’s future and authored notable works that reflect the era's challenges and aspirations.

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Pope John XXIII

Pope and Vatican II convener
Born
November 25th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1963 61 years ago — 81 years old

Served as Pope from 1958 until death in 1963. Convened the Second Vatican Council to initiate significant reforms in the Catholic Church. Implemented modernizing changes in liturgy, relations with other religions, and outreach to laity. Advocated for peace during the Cold War and increased interfaith dialogue. Prior to papacy, held various ecclesiastical roles including Bishop of Bergamo.

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Jacob Fichman

Romanian-Israeli poet and critic
Born
November 25th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1958 66 years ago — 76 years old

Born in Romania, a significant figure in Hebrew literature. Primarily active during the early 20th century, focused on poetry and literary criticism. Moved to Palestine in 1924 and contributed to the cultural scene. Engaged in promoting Hebrew poetry, playing a crucial role in the literary community. Worked as an editor and published various articles and essays on literature, emphasizing the importance of Hebrew in the literary world.

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Stefan Zweig

Austrian author and playwright
Born
November 28th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1942 83 years ago — 60 years old

An Austrian journalist, author, and playwright, contributed significantly to literature in the early 20th century. Works explored themes of identity, culture, and existential crisis. Gained prominence in the literary world with works such as 'The World of Yesterday,' an autobiographical reflection on pre-war Europe, and 'Letter from an Unknown Woman,' a poignant novella highlighting unrequited love. Fled Austria during the rise of Nazism, leading to a life of exile. Eventually settled in Brazil, where the later years were marked by his despair over the destruction of European culture.

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Artur Phleps

Romanian-German general in WWII
Born
November 29th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1944 80 years ago — 62 years old

Served as a general in the German army during World War II. Played a significant role in military operations on the Eastern Front. Led the 4th SS Panzergrenadier Division polyski during the Siege of Budapest in 1945. Participated in the Battle of Stalingrad and contributed to various offensive operations throughout the war. After the war, was captured by Soviet forces and later executed.

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Erwin von Witzleben

Field Marshal in the German Army
Born
December 4th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1944 80 years ago — 62 years old

Field Marshal served in the German Army during both World Wars. Initially appointed to various leadership positions, he rose to prominence during World War II. In 1944, he became involved in a plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler. Despite his military career and strategic contributions, he faced arrest and execution following the failed assassination attempt. His legacy includes his military tactics and participation in significant historical events.

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René Cresté

French actor and director of 'La Glu'
Born
December 5th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
1922 103 years ago — 41 years old

An actor and director in French cinema, credited for contributions to the early 20th century film industry. Worked in several silent films and transitioned into sound films. Directed and starred in various productions, establishing a reputation within the French cinematic landscape. Participated in the creation of 'La Glu', a film recognized for its artistic approach. Engaged with the theater community and helped promote cinematic arts in France.

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Tuomas Bryggari

Finnish politician and advocate for workers
Born
December 8th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1964 60 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1881, a Finnish politician played a significant role in labor rights and social welfare in Finland. Active in promoting workers' interests, participated in the Finnish Parliament and contributed to various social reforms. Focused on improving the living conditions of the working class, played a key role in establishing labor unions and advocating for progressive policies. Engaged in numerous political campaigns aimed at enhancing social justice and equity within Finnish society.

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Albert Gleizes

French painter and Cubist artist
Born
December 8th, 1881 143 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1953 71 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent painter, contributed significantly to the development of the Cubist movement. Participated in various exhibitions, including the 1911 Salon d'Automne, which showcased early Cubist works. Expanded the ideas of Cubism through writings and artistic theories while also engaging in group exhibitions with other influential artists. Involved in projects that sought to integrate art and life, including decorative arts and architecture. Relocated to the United States during World War II, where he continued to produce art and teach.

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