What Happened This Year 1881

Born in 1881

Eulalio Gutiérrez

Mexican General and President
Born
February 4th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 58 years old

A military general and politician, served as President of Mexico during the Mexican Revolution. He took office in 1914, leading the country during a tumultuous period marked by internal conflicts and power struggles. Gutiérrez aimed to unify various factions within the revolution and sought to implement progressive reforms. His presidency, however, faced challenges from rival leaders and military opposition. Gutiérrez was ousted in 1915, leading to a short-lived political career.

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Kliment Voroshilov

Soviet Politician and Military Leader
Born
February 4th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1969 55 years ago — 88 years old

A Soviet politician and military leader who served as a Marshal of the Soviet Union. Voroshilov played a significant role in the Red Army during the Russian Civil War and later became the People's Commissar for Defence. His contributions included the leadership of Soviet military efforts during the Winter War with Finland. Voroshilov participated in the early years of World War II, advocating for the development of Soviet military strategies and tactics. He held various political positions throughout his career and was a prominent member of the Communist Party.

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Fernand Léger

Painter and sculptor of modern art
Born
February 4th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 74 years old

A pioneering figure in modern art, this artist developed a unique visual language characterized by bold colors and geometric forms. Emerging as part of the Cubist movement, the works created often explored the interplay between industrialization and the human experience. Notable contributions included the use of mechanical objects and the incorporation of vivid colors to depict modern life. The artist founded a style that blended abstraction with representational elements, influencing subsequent generations of artists. The artist's works have been exhibited widely and remain significant in art history.

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Pauline Brunius

Swedish actress and theater director
Born
February 10th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1954 71 years ago — 73 years old

Brunius started her career in the early 1900s, becoming one of the prominent figures in Swedish theater and film. She gained recognition for her performances at the Royal Dramatic Theatre in Stockholm, contributing significantly to the Swedish cultural scene. In addition to acting, she directed several stage productions and films, showcasing her talents both in front of and behind the camera. Brunius's work helped shape the narrative style of Swedish cinema during her time.

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Carlo Carrà

Italian painter of the metaphysical style
Born
February 11th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
April 13th, 1966 59 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1881, an influential figure in Italian art, involved in the Futurist movement before shifting to Metaphysical painting. Worked alongside key artists in the early 20th century, contributing to the development of modern art in Italy. Played a crucial role in the artistic scene, creating significant works that explored themes of reality and perception. His art reflects a unique synthesis of cubism and futurism, and he was instrumental in promoting the Metaphysical art movement, influencing generations of artists. Passed away in 1966, leaving behind a rich legacy of artistic exploration and innovation.

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Anna Pavlova

Ballerina with iconic role in 'The Dying Swan'
Born
February 12th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1931 94 years ago — 49 years old

Originated from Russia and later became a prominent figure in England, a renowned ballerina specialized in classical ballet. Led a groundbreaking international career that included extensive tours around the globe. Famous for performing 'The Dying Swan', a piece that showcased her exceptional technique and emotive expression. Established her own ballet company, contributing to the spread of ballet outside of traditional European centers. Changed the perception of ballet as a performing art during early 20th century.

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Eleanor Farjeon

English author, poet, and playwright
Born
February 13th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
June 5th, 1965 59 years ago — 84 years old

An English author, poet, and playwright. Wrote children's literature and adult fiction. Gained recognition for the poetic children's book 'The Children's Hour'. Contributed to literary anthologies and periodicals throughout a lengthy career. Also wrote plays, showcasing a range of themes and styles. Received the Hans Christian Andersen Award for her contributions to children's literature, highlighting a significant role in the genre.

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Mary Carson Breckinridge

Nurse midwife, founded Frontier Nursing Service
Born
February 17th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 84 years old

A pioneer in nurse midwifery, established the Frontier Nursing Service in Kentucky. This initiative provided healthcare and midwifery services to the rural Appalachian population. Focused on maternal and child health, the service trained nurses and created outreach programs to improve the well-being of mothers and infants in underserved areas. Breckinridge's efforts helped shape the field of nurse midwifery in the United States and expanded access to healthcare for many families.

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Kenneth J. Alford

Bandmaster and composer of marches
Born
February 21st, 1881 144 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1945 79 years ago — 64 years old

A significant figure in military music, contributed extensively to the genre of military marches. Composed many well-regarded pieces, including 'Colonel Bogey March', which gained international fame. Served as a bandmaster in the British Army, where leadership in various military bands was demonstrated. His work has inspired generations of musicians and remains popular in both military and civilian music circles.

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