What Happened This Year 1883

Born in 1883

Sylvanus Morley

Archaeologist and Mayan scholar
Born
June 7th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1948 76 years ago — 65 years old

This American archaeologist specialized in Mayan civilization and contributed significantly to the understanding of its history and culture. Conducted extensive excavations at key archaeological sites in Guatemala and Mexico. Authored numerous scholarly works, including 'The Ancient Maya' which remains a cornerstone in the study of Maya archaeology and history. Served as the director of the Carnegie Institution of Washington's Division of Historical Research and actively engaged in prominent academic circles.

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Fernand Gonder

French pole vaulter, Olympic medalist
Born
June 12th, 1883 142 years ago
Died
1969 56 years ago — 86 years old

Competed in athletics, specializing in pole vaulting. Participated in the 1900 Summer Olympics in Paris, securing a silver medal. Achieved notable heights in the sport during the early 20th century, representing France in various competitions.

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Gladys Mills Phipps

American horse breeder with notable thoroughbreds
Born
June 19th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent horse breeder, established a renowned breeding operation focused on thoroughbred racing. Successfully developed and raced numerous champions at prestigious events, contributing significantly to the horse breeding industry. The breeding program produced several celebrated horses that competed and excelled in high-profile races. Active in equestrian organizations and known for supporting equine welfare initiatives, showcasing a deep commitment to the sport and its community.

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Feodor Gladkov

Russian author and educator
Born
June 21st, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1883, an influential author and educator emerged in Russia, contributing to literature and education. Best recognized for the novel 'Cement', which depicted the struggles of post-revolution Russia and explored themes of social change and industrialization. Gladkov also engaged in educational reform and served in various capacities to advance literacy and education within the Soviet system. His literary work reflected the socio-political landscape of early Soviet society and provided insight into the human condition during turbulent times.

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Frank Verner

American Runner, 1908 Olympic Competitor
Born
June 24th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1966 58 years ago — 83 years old

Competed in athletics, specializing in distance running. Participated in the 1908 Summer Olympics held in London, representing the United States. Achieved notable performance in the marathon event, contributing to the early recognition of American long-distance runners on the world stage.

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Victor Francis Hess

Physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 24th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1964 60 years ago — 81 years old

Born in Austria, a physicist contributed significantly to the study of cosmic rays. Emigrated to the United States and held positions in various academic institutions. Conducted pioneering experiments using balloon flights to collect data on radiation from outer space, leading to groundbreaking findings in the field of high-energy physics. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1936 for work related to cosmic radiation. Continued research and teaching, influencing future generations of scientists.

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Arthur L. Newton

American long-distance runner
Born
June 24th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
1956 69 years ago — 73 years old

Competed in long-distance running events, achieving significant success in the early 20th century. Notable for participation in the Boston Marathon and winning the 1920 race. Set several records and represented the United States in international competitions. Contributed to the growth of distance running sports in America during that era.

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Jean Metzinger

French Cubist painter and writer
Born
June 24th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1956 68 years ago — 73 years old

An important figure in the Cubist movement, contributions included both painting and writing on art theory. Pioneered a style integrating fragmented forms and multiple perspectives. Worked alongside other prominent artists to develop and define Cubism, collaborating with figures such as Guillaume Apollinaire and Pablo Picasso. Major works included 'The Guitarist' and 'Woman with a Fan', showcasing the experimental use of geometry and color. Engaged in discussions around the future of art and its philosophical implications, influencing generations of artists.

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Fritz Löhner-Beda

Austrian librettist and lyricist
Born
June 24th, 1883 141 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1942 82 years ago — 59 years old

Austrian librettist, lyricist, and writer, contributed significantly to the operetta genre in the early 20th century. Worked predominantly with composer Franz Lehár, writing notable libretti for works such as 'The Merry Widow' and 'Giuditta'. His literary career included a wide array of theatrical works and he utilized his creative talents in various capacities, enhancing the operetta scene. His career was interrupted by the rise of the Nazi regime, leading to his persecution due to Jewish heritage. Eventually, he was arrested and deported to the Auschwitz concentration camp, where he perished.

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