What Happened This Year 1884

Born in 1884

Amedeo Modigliani

Italian painter and sculptor
Born
July 12th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1920 105 years ago — 35 years old

Amedeo Modigliani was an Italian painter and sculptor active in the early 20th century. He is recognized for portraits and nudes characterized by elongated forms and a distinctive, expressive style. Modigliani's work reflects influences from various artistic movements, including Cubism and Expressionism. Despite limited commercial success during his lifetime, his pieces gained significant attention posthumously. Modigliani lived most of his life in Paris, where he became associated with a circle of artists and writers. His life was marked by struggles with poverty and illness, which contributed to his early death.

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Yrjö Saarela

Finnish wrestler and Olympic coach
Born
July 13th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1951 73 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1884, this individual achieved acclaim as a wrestler and later transitioned into coaching. Competing in Greco-Roman wrestling, notable participation came during the Olympic Games, where significant recognition was garnered. In the coaching realm, developed training methodologies that contributed to the success of numerous athletes, fostering growth within the sport. Contributed to the advancement of wrestling in Finland, influencing future generations of wrestlers.

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Anna Vyrubova

Russian author and memoirist
Born
July 16th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1884, this individual became a prominent writer and close confidante of Tsarina Alexandra of Russia. She authored several works reflecting her experiences in the imperial court, with particular focus on the last days of the Romanov dynasty. Her memoirs provide unique insights into the social and political climate of early 20th-century Russia. After the Russian Revolution, this individual lived in exile and continued to write, contributing to the understanding of Russian history and culture during a tumultuous period.

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Alberto di Jorio

Italian Cardinal and Church Leader
Born
July 18th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1979 45 years ago — 95 years old

Ordained as a priest, held various positions within the Catholic Church, including serving as the archbishop of the Archdiocese of Isernia-Venafro. Participated in the Second Vatican Council, contributing to discussions and decisions that shaped the Church's modern practices and outlook. Promoted to cardinal by Pope John XXIII. Engaged in roles that underscored commitment to pastoral care and the Church's mission.

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Charles Edward

Duke and Nazi politician
Born
July 19th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1954 71 years ago — 69 years old

Born into British nobility, held the title Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. In the early 20th century, became involved in German politics and aligned with the Nazi Party. Advocated for the Nazi regime during World War II. Following the war, lost titles and faced denazification proceedings. Lived in exile post-war until death.

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Emil Jannings

Swiss-German actor, first Oscar winner
Born
July 23rd, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1950 75 years ago — 66 years old

Born in Switzerland, Jannings became a prominent figure in German cinema during the silent film era. He gained international fame with performances in films such as 'The Last Laugh' and 'The Blue Angel'. In 1929, Jannings became the first recipient of the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performances in 'The Last Laugh' and 'The Way of All Flesh'. His successful transition to talkies was marked by roles in various films in the early 1930s. Jannings worked with notable directors like F.W. Murnau and served as a pivotal figure in the film industry during its early development.

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Maria Caserini

Italian actress in early cinema
Born
July 24th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1969 56 years ago — 85 years old

Caserini was an Italian actress active in the early 20th century. She appeared in several silent films that contributed to the Italian film industry during its formative years. Caserini gained recognition for her performances, particularly in films that showcased her talent in dramatic roles. Her work spanned from the late 1900s into the silent film era, during which she became an integral part of the cinematic landscape of Italy. Despite the transition to talkies, her legacy remained in the history of Italian cinema.

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Ralph Austin Bard

Financier and 2nd Under Secretary of the Navy
Born
July 29th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 91 years old

A financier and politician served as the 2nd Under Secretary of the Navy from 1940 to 1941. During the naval expansion prior to World War II, contributed to the mobilization efforts and modernizing the U.S. Navy. Played a crucial role in supporting naval contracts and procurement processes. After leaving office, continued involvement in various financial and industry-related positions.

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Carl Friedrich Goerdeler

Economist and politician; resistance leader
Born
July 31st, 1884 140 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1945 80 years ago — 60 years old

An economist and politician, dedicated efforts to oppose the Nazi regime. Served as the mayor of Leipzig from 1930 to 1937. Involved in various plots to overthrow Adolf Hitler, notably the July 20 plot in 1944. Following the assassination attempt on Hitler, was captured and executed.

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