What Happened This Year 1884

Born in 1884

St. Elmo Brady

Chemist and educator, first African American PhD
Born
December 22nd, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1966 59 years ago — 82 years old

First African American to earn a PhD in chemistry at the University of Illinois in 1916. Contributed to the development of curricula for chemistry education at several institutions. Became a prominent educator, teaching at various universities and mentoring numerous students in the field of chemistry. Served as a significant figure in promoting the education of African Americans in the sciences throughout the 20th century.

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Samuel Berger

Boxer and Welterweight Champion
Born
December 25th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1925 100 years ago — 41 years old

Born on December 25, 1884, an American boxer achieved prominence in the early 20th century. Competed in the welterweight division and won the world welterweight title in 1905. Fought notable opponents during his career and became a well-respected figure in boxing circles. Continued to participate in bouts until the late 1910s, after which he transitioned to coaching and training aspiring boxers. Retired from professional boxing with a substantial record and remained involved in the sport for many years.

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Evelyn Nesbit

Model and actress, infamous for scandal
Born
December 25th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1967 58 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1884, a model and actress gained prominence in early 20th-century America. Achieved fame as a showgirl, featuring in Floradora on Broadway. Associated with the infamous murder of her husband, Harry Thaw, which garnered significant media attention and public fascination. This scandal led to a highly publicized trial that captivated the nation during 1907, highlighting issues of mental health and societal norms of the time. Her life story has been referenced in literature and film, reflecting the social dynamics of her era.

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Hideki Tōjō

Japanese general and 40th Prime Minister
Born
December 30th, 1884 140 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 64 years old

Served as a general in the Imperial Japanese Army and held the position of the 40th Prime Minister of Japan from 1941 to 1944. Oversaw Japan's military operations during World War II, including the attack on Pearl Harbor. Instrumental in Japan's wartime policies and governance, leading to significant military engagements in the Pacific. After Japan's defeat, faced trial for war crimes, ultimately resulting in execution.

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Mihály Fekete

Hungarian actor and film director
Born
December 31st, 1884 140 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1960 65 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent figure in Hungarian cinema, this individual made significant contributions as an actor, screenwriter, and director. His film career spanned several decades, during which he participated in various productions that enriched the Hungarian film landscape. Projects included adaptations of classic literature and original screenplays that showcased his talent. His artistic work resonated with audiences and earned recognition in Hungary's film community.

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Charles Hylton Stewart

English organist and composer
Born
1884 141 years ago
Died
November 14th, 1932 92 years ago — 48 years old

An English organist and composer contributed significantly to church music and organ performance during the early 20th century. He served as the organist at various notable churches, including St. Paul's Cathedral in London. His compositions include a number of choral works and organ pieces that remain part of church repertoires. Additionally, he played a vital role in music education, influencing many young musicians through his teaching.

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Otto Fritz Meyerhof

Nobel Prize-winning biochemist
Born
1884 141 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1951 73 years ago — 67 years old

A German-American physician and biochemist, contributions included significant research in muscle metabolism. His work clarified the biochemical processes of energy production, particularly focusing on the glycolytic pathway. The correlation of lactate production during exercise was a key finding. This research garnered a Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1922.

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Konstantinos Tsaldaris

Egyptian-Greek politician and statesman
Born
1884 141 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1970 54 years ago — 86 years old

Served as a prominent politician in Greece. Played a significant role in the Greek political landscape during the mid-20th century. Was a member of the Greek Parliament multiple times and led the Greek government as Prime Minister from 1952 to 1953. Contributed to the establishment of the conservative political party in Greece, which shaped the country's governance in the post-World War II era through various political challenges and developments.

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Giacomo Alberione

Italian priest and publisher of religious media
Born
1884 141 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1971 53 years ago — 87 years old

Founded the Society of Saint Paul, an institute dedicated to disseminating the Catholic faith through mass media. Established various publishing houses, including Edizioni Paoline, focusing on religious literature and responsible journalism. Created the Daughters of Saint Paul, a congregation aimed at promoting the message of Christ using contemporary means of communication. Contributed significantly to the development of Catholic media in the 20th century.

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