What Happened This Year 1881

Born in 1881

Antoni Łomnicki

Mathematician known for academic work
Born
January 17th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1941 83 years ago — 60 years old

Born in Poland, a mathematician and academic focused on mathematical logic and set theory. Contributed significantly to the foundations of mathematics during the early 20th century. Active in the academic community, teaching and publishing research. Influenced subsequent generations of mathematicians through rigorous scholarship and educational efforts.

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Gaston Gallimard

French publisher, founded Éditions Gallimard
Born
January 18th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1975 49 years ago — 94 years old

A significant figure in French publishing, founded Éditions Gallimard in 1911, which became a leading publishing house in France. This establishment published numerous influential authors, contributing to the literary landscape of the 20th century. Maintained a focus on quality literature, promoting both avant-garde and classic works. Under leadership, Éditions Gallimard launched various prestigious literary series that facilitated the works of renowned writers.

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Ernst Fast

Swedish long-distance runner and Olympian
Born
January 21st, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 78 years old

Competed in long-distance running events and made significant contributions to the sport in Sweden. Participated in the 1908 London Olympics, finishing in the marathon. Achieved notable success during early 20th century athletic competitions, representing Sweden in various national and international events. Held records in several long-distance races, showcasing exceptional stamina and technique.

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Ivan Ribar

Yugoslav politician and leader
Born
January 21st, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1881, this individual played a significant role in the establishment of socialist policies in Yugoslavia following World War II. He held various leadership positions within the Yugoslav government, including serving as the first President of the People's Assembly of Yugoslavia from 1945 to 1953. Actively involved in the Partisan movement during the war, he contributed to the fight against Axis forces and the subsequent formation of a socialist federation. His political career extended beyond that period, influencing the direction of Yugoslav governance and its alignment within the Eastern Bloc throughout the late 1940s and into the 1950s.

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Ira Thomas

Baseball player and manager, Detroit Tigers
Born
January 22nd, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 77 years old

A baseball player and manager contributed significantly to the early 20th-century American League. Played as a catcher and outfielder for teams including the Philadelphia Athletics and Detroit Tigers from 1905 to 1916. Managed the Montgomery Rebels in the Southern Association and later worked with the Detroit Tigers as a coach. Served in various coaching roles in minor league baseball after retirement.

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Alice Catherine Evans

Microbiologist and milk pasteurization advocate
Born
January 29th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1975 49 years ago — 94 years old

An American microbiologist contributed significantly to the understanding of bacterial pathogens in food safety. Pioneered research on foodborne illnesses, focusing on the dangers of unpasteurized milk. Actively advocated for the pasteurization process, leading to widespread adoption in the dairy industry. Conducted groundbreaking studies on Brucella bacteria, establishing links to livestock and public health. Served as a role model for women in science during a time when the field was predominantly male.

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Irving Langmuir

Chemist and physicist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
January 31st, 1881 144 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1957 67 years ago — 76 years old

Contributions to physical chemistry and surface chemistry defined a career that included development of the Langmuir isotherm. Achievements in the field of chemistry were recognized with the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1932. Significant work included investigations of high-temperature chemical processes and the discovery of the phenomena of plasma. Langmuir's research into chemical bonding and reactions greatly influenced the understanding of chemical systems.

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Tip Snooke

South African cricketer
Born
February 1st, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 85 years old

A South African cricketer who played primarily as a right-handed batsman. His career spanned from 1903 to 1912, during which he participated in 10 Test matches. He was a part of the South African national team, contributing significantly to the early development of cricket in the region. Snooke's batting skills were recognized during a time when cricket was gaining popularity in South Africa. He also played first-class cricket for teams like Western Province and Transvaal, showcasing talent across various domestic competitions.

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Orval Overall

Baseball player and manager, 1908 World Series
Born
February 2nd, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 66 years old

Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball from 1906 to 1913. Compiled a record of 88 wins and 55 losses. Played primarily for the Chicago Cubs and the Cincinnati Reds. Contributed to the Cubs' victory in the 1908 World Series. Managed in the minor leagues after retiring as a player.

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