What Happened This Year 1882

Born in 1882

Jean Giraudoux

French playwright and novelist
Born
October 29th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1944 81 years ago — 61 years old

An influential French playwright and novelist, this figure produced significant works that explored themes of identity, love, and war. Major contributions to the theater include the plays 'The Madwoman of Chaillot' and 'Electra'. The works often showcased a blend of poetic language and philosophical depth, reflecting the complexities of human emotion and society. Essays and novels also featured prominently in the literary output, contributing to a rich legacy that impacted French literature during the early 20th century.

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Günther von Kluge

Field Marshal in World War II
Born
October 30th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 62 years old

Achieved the rank of Field Marshal in the German Army during World War II. Commanded the 4th Army during the invasion of Poland in 1939 and later led Army Group Center on the Eastern Front. Participated in significant battles including the Battle of Smolensk and the Battle of Moscow. Faced challenges during the campaign against the Soviet Union, eventually falling out of favor with Adolf Hitler. In 1944, appointed to command of Army Group A but encountered difficulties in the retreat from Soviet forces. Sought to avoid conflict with the Nazi regime leading to his eventual suicide in 1944.

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William Halsey Jr.

United States Navy admiral
Born
October 30th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1959 65 years ago — 76 years old

An admiral in the United States Navy, the individual played a significant role during World War II. Commanded the United States Third Fleet, leading naval operations in the Pacific theater. Contributed to major battles, including the Battle of Leyte Gulf, which was one of the largest naval battles in history. The individual received numerous awards and honors for military service.

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Oldřich Duras

Czech chess player and composer
Born
October 30th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent chess player and composer, contributions included multiple works in chess literature and creation of unique chess problems. Competed in various national and international tournaments, achieving notable results. Served as an influential figure within the Czech chess community, participating in the development and promotion of the game during the early 20th century.

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Yakub Kolas

Belarusian writer and poet
Born
November 3rd, 1882 142 years ago
Died
1956 69 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent Belarusian writer and poet, engaged in the depiction of rural life and social issues. Contributed significantly to Belarusian literature with a focus on folk culture and national identity. Works often highlighted the struggles of ordinary people and the beauty of the Belarusian countryside. Active in the early 20th century, Kolas became a pivotal figure in the development of modern Belarusian literature.

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Gustaf VI Adolf of Sweden

King of Sweden, cultural patron
Born
November 11th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1973 51 years ago — 90 years old

Reigned as King of Sweden from 1950 until death in 1973. Played a significant role in promoting Swedish culture and archaeology. Actively supported the arts, including theater, music, and literature. Worked on archaeological and historical research, particularly in relation to the Viking Age. Participated in royal duties and state affairs, maintaining a constitutional monarchy during a period of political change.

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Felix Frankfurter

Austrian-American Supreme Court Justice
Born
November 15th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1965 60 years ago — 82 years old

Born in Austria, an influential lawyer and jurist, served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1939 to 1962. Played a significant role in shaping modern constitutional law in the United States. Advocated for civil liberties and the separation of powers. Frankfurter's opinions often emphasized the importance of judicial restraint and deference to the legislative branch.

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Wyndham Lewis

English painter and art critic
Born
November 18th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1957 68 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent figure in the vorticism movement, significant contributions included painting, writing, and criticism. Lewis founded the literary magazine Blast and authored several books on art and culture. Focused on modernism, the artist created works that challenged traditional aesthetics. His paintings often depicted urban life and abstract forms. One of the most notable works was the painting 'The Enemy'.

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Frances Gertrude McGill

Forensic pathologist, forensic pioneer
Born
November 18th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 77 years old

A pioneering forensic pathologist in Canada, significant contributions were made to the field of forensic medicine. Education was pursued at the University of Western Ontario, where a medical degree was obtained in 1911. McGill became the first female forensic pathologist in Canada and served as the provincial pathologist for Saskatchewan. Advanced techniques in forensic investigations, particularly regarding the analysis of murder cases and suspicious deaths, were developed and implemented. In addition to work in pathology, McGill was an advocate for women's rights in medicine and contributed to various medical organizations.

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