What Happened This Year 1881

Born in 1881

William T. Piper

Aviation pioneer and aircraft manufacturer
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1970 55 years ago — 89 years old

An engineer and businessman founded Piper Aircraft, which became a leading manufacturer of general aviation aircraft. Established in 1937, Piper Aircraft designed and produced a variety of models, including the iconic Piper Cub, which played a significant role in popularizing civil aviation. The company contributed to both recreational flying and pilot training through its innovative designs and affordable pricing. Piper’s business acumen enabled the company to thrive in a competitive market, significantly impacting the aviation landscape.

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Panagiotis Poulitsas

Archaeologist and judge in Greece
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1968 57 years ago — 87 years old

Engaged in extensive archaeological work in Greece, contributing significantly to the field through research and excavation. Played a key role in legal matters pertaining to archaeological heritage and preservation. Involved in various academic and professional organizations dedicated to archaeology and law. His efforts helped establish best practices for archaeological site management.

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Michael Fitzgerald

Irish republican on hunger strike
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1920 105 years ago — 39 years old

Involved in the Irish War of Independence, participated in the struggle for Irish independence from British rule. Joined the Irish Republican Army and was arrested during the 1920 campaign. Engaged in a hunger strike to protest his detention. Died on October 17, 1920, in a British prison, which garnered attention to the Irish republican movement and the treatment of political prisoners.

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Carl Schenstrøm

Danish actor and director of films
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1942 83 years ago — 61 years old

Originating from Denmark, this actor and director became prominent in the early 20th century. He directed and starred in a number of films, contributing significantly to the Danish film industry. One of the well-known films is 'Sommer i Tyrol,' which showcased his talents and popularity. His career included both acting roles and directorial projects, laying groundwork for future Danish filmmakers. Schenstrøm's filmography highlighted a blend of theatrical and cinematic elements, displaying a strong commitment to arts.

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Daisy Ashford

English author, 'The Young Visiters'
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1972 53 years ago — 91 years old

An English author wrote the novella 'The Young Visiters' at the age of nine. The story, originally penned in 1890, gained publication in 1919, introducing themes of Victorian society and early 20th-century class dynamics. The work captured the attention of literary circles, showcasing a child's perspective on adult relationships and societal norms. It became a notable contribution to children's literature and was later adapted for stage and screen, further solidifying its legacy in British literature.

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Hijri Dede

Iraqi Turkmen poet and writer
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1951 73 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent poet and writer from Iraq, contributed significantly to Turkmen literature. Focused on themes of Turkmen identity and culture throughout his work. Engaged in promoting the Turkmen language and heritage during a time of sociopolitical change. Served as a cultural figure in the region, influencing future generations of writers and poets.

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Padraic Colum

Irish poet and playwright
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1972 53 years ago — 91 years old

Contributed significantly to Irish literature during the 20th century. Published numerous collections of poetry and wrote several plays, including 'The Land' and 'The Onlookers'. Engaged with the Irish literary revival and collaborated with other prominent figures such as William Butler Yeats. Alongside poetry and drama, wrote children's books, further influencing Irish cultural life. His works often explored themes of nature, mythology, and the human condition.

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Rauf Orbay

Turkish politician, Prime Minister
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1964 61 years ago — 83 years old

Served as a military officer during World War I and played a significant role in the Turkish War of Independence. Held the position of Prime Minister of Turkey for a brief period in the 1920s. Contributed to the establishment of the Republic of Turkey and was involved in early Turkish politics as a member of various political parties. Worked towards defining the country's political framework in the post-World War I era and participated in the founding of the Great National Assembly of Turkey.

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Albert Kesselring

German field marshal during WWII
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1960 65 years ago — 79 years old

Served as a field marshal in the German Army during World War II. Held key commands in various theaters of the war, demonstrating strategic military capabilities. Played a significant role in the Mediterranean campaigns, particularly in the defense of Italy. After the war, Kesselring was tried at the Nuremberg Military Tribunal and sentenced to death, later commuted to life imprisonment. Released in 1952, he wrote memoirs reflecting on his military experiences and strategies.

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