What Happened This Year 1881

Born in 1881

Wilhelm Lehmbruck

German sculptor with notable sculptures
Born
January 4th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1919 106 years ago — 38 years old

A prominent German sculptor contributed significantly to expressionist sculpture. Classroom education began at the Arts and Crafts School in Düsseldorf. Later, studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Berlin. Worked in various styles, ultimately creating large-scale sculptures characterized by elongated forms and emotional intensity. Produced notable works, including 'The Dying Athlete' and 'Standing Woman'. Lived in periods marked by political upheaval, which influenced creative expression. Elements of modernism and expressionism can be seen throughout the works.

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Pablo Gargallo

Spanish sculptor of public art pieces
Born
January 5th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1934 91 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent figure in the early 20th century art scene, contributed significantly to the development of modern sculpture and Cubism. Designed large public sculptures, earning recognition for distinctive bronze and iron works. Explored themes related to human forms and urban landscapes through innovative techniques. Also engaged in painting, creating works that often accompany his sculptures. Spent much of professional life in Barcelona, where many works reside.

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Ion Minulescu

Romanian poet and literary critic
Born
January 6th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent figure in Romanian literature, contributions spanned poetry, drama, and criticism. Played a significant role in the modernist movement during the early 20th century. Published many collections of poems, including 'Flori de mușcată' and 'Versuri'. Worked as a literary critic, influencing the landscape of Romanian literary criticism. His works often explored themes of love, beauty, and existential angst, showcasing his distinctive style and innovative use of language.

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Henrik Shipstead

American politician and dentist
Born
January 8th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1881, Shipstead practiced as a dentist before entering politics. Elected as a U.S. Senator from Minnesota, Shipstead served from 1923 to 1941. His tenure was marked by a focus on farmers' rights and support for rural issues. In the Senate, he aligned with progressive causes and opposed certain endorsements of military intervention during his time in office.

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Linnie Marsh Wolfe

American librarian and author
Born
January 8th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1945 79 years ago — 64 years old

Contributions included work as a librarian and authorship of numerous novels and children's books. Writings often reflected a deep understanding of literature and showcased various narrative styles. Active in literary circles, engaged with different literary societies and contributed to professional libraries, focusing on improving library services and accessibility. Significant involvement in promoting library science as a field.

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Lascelles Abercrombie

Poet and literary critic, wrote 'Emperor's Fields'
Born
January 9th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1938 87 years ago — 57 years old

A poet and literary critic focused on early 20th-century literature, produced influential works that contributed to modern poetry. Notable publications include 'Emperor's Fields' and 'The New World'. Abercrombie also engaged in literary criticism, advocating for poetic forms and exploring the themes of nature and human experience. In addition to poetry, his essays provided insight into the literary developments of the time, impacting the understanding of contemporary literary movements.

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Giovanni Papini

Italian journalist and author of novels
Born
January 9th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1956 68 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1881, this individual became a prominent journalist, author, and poet in Italy. Engaged in various literary movements, he contributed extensively to the Italian literary scene. The individual wrote several influential works, including the novel 'The Devil' (1912) and the autobiographical narrative 'Life of Christ' (1921). His writings often explored existential themes and the complexities of human nature. Throughout the career, strong opinions on cultural and political matters were expressed, leading to involvement in various controversies. The contributions enriched Italian literature and journalism, establishing a legacy that continued to be analyzed long after.

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Essington Lewis

Australian engineer and businessman
Born
January 13th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 80 years old

An engineer and businessman contributed to the development of the Australian manufacturing industry. Played a significant role during World War II by increasing domestic production of war materials. Served as a managing director of the Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation, which manufactured aircraft for the Royal Australian Air Force. Involved in the establishment of a manufacturing base that enhanced Australia's industrial capacity.

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Harry Price

Psychologist and author of paranormal studies
Born
January 17th, 1881 144 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1948 76 years ago — 67 years old

An English psychologist and author, contributed to the field of psychology with a focus on the paranormal. Prices' work involved investigating spiritualism and other phenomena, and he authored several books that scrutinized claims of paranormal activity. One of his notable works includes 'Poltergeist Over England', which explores reports of poltergeist activity across the English countryside. Price also established the National Laboratory of Psychical Research in London, where he conducted experiments and research in the realms of psychical phenomena.

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