What Happened This Year 1881

Born in 1881

Nicholas Schenck

Russian-American businessman, film executive
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1969 56 years ago — 88 years old

A prominent businessman and film executive in early 20th century America. Helmed MGM Studios and significantly contributed to the growth of Hollywood. Played a vital role in shaping the studio system and the development of the film industry during its formative years. Instrumental in acquiring and producing major films, helping to establish MGM as a leading studio in Hollywood.

Continue Reading

Michael Fitzgerald

Irish republican on hunger strike
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1920 104 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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

María Blanchard

Spanish painter, key figure in Cubism
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1932 92 years ago — 51 years old

A prominent figure in the early 20th century art scene, this Spanish painter contributed significantly to the Cubist movement. Early in her career, engagement with avant-garde art in Paris led to a distinctive style characterized by bold colors and geometric forms. Works often depicted portraits, still lifes, and scenes from daily life. The painter's unique vision and approach garnered attention within artistic circles, earning recognition among contemporaries, including notable leaders of the Cubist movement. Her artistic legacy remains influential, particularly in the context of modern Spanish art.

Continue Reading

Rauf Orbay

Turkish politician, Prime Minister
Born
1881 144 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1964 60 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.

Continue Reading