What Happened This Year 1885

Born in 1885

Antonio Bacci

Italian cardinal and Catholic leader
Born
September 4th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 86 years old

Ordained as a priest in 1908, played significant roles within the Catholic Church. Served as the Bishop of Pistoia and later as the Archbishop of Ferrara. Elevated to the rank of cardinal in 1953 by Pope Pius XII. Participated in Vatican II, contributing to discussions on modernizing the Church's approach. His tenure was marked by significant clerical responsibilities and the promotion of ecclesiastical matters within Italy and beyond.

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Otto Kruger

American actor in silent films
Born
September 6th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1974 50 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1885, this individual was an American actor who achieved prominence during the silent film era and continued to work in talkies. The career began in theater before transitioning to films. Notable works included roles in 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney', 'The Count of Monte Cristo', and 'The Bride of Frankenstein'. Over the decades, contributed to both film and television, showcasing a versatile acting skill.

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Elinor Wylie

American author and poet
Born
September 7th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1928 96 years ago — 43 years old

Born in 1885, this author and poet gained recognition during the early 20th century for crafting lyrical poetry and novels. Notable works include 'The Orphan Angel' and 'The Venetian Glass Nephew'. The poet's work often featured themes of love, nature, and human emotion, resonating with readers of the era. In addition to prose, contributions to poetry established a reputation as a significant literary figure of the time.

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Clare Sheridan

Sculptor and author, notable for portraits
Born
September 9th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1970 54 years ago — 84 years old

A sculptor and author who gained recognition for creating portraits of prominent figures in the early 20th century. Contributions included producing busts of individuals such as George Bernard Shaw and Winston Churchill. Worked in various materials, with an emphasis on clay and bronze. Authored memoirs detailing experiences and travels, providing insight into the artistic landscape of the time.

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Miriam Licette

English soprano and educator
Born
September 9th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1969 55 years ago — 83 years old

Premiered at the Royal Opera House and performed major roles in operas such as 'Carmen' and 'The Marriage of Figaro'. Worked as a vocal teacher, influencing many aspiring singers. Held a notable position in music education, contributing to the training and development of the next generation of performers. Participated in performances across Europe.

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Johannes de Jong

Dutch cardinal and ecclesiastical leader
Born
September 10th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church. Held significant roles within the church, including being appointed as the Archbishop of Utrecht. Played a crucial role in the Catholic Church in the Netherlands during challenging times, particularly during World War II and its aftermath. Engaged actively in church matters and contributed to ecclesiastical governance, shaping religious practices and policies in the region.

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Carl Clinton Van Doren

Critic and biographer of American literature
Born
September 10th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1950 74 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1885, the subject contributed significantly to American literary criticism and biography. A graduate of Columbia University, served as a professor there. Wrote extensively on various authors, most notably the biography of Benjamin Franklin. Also recognized for contributions to literary criticism, emphasizing the significance of American writers. Worked as an editor and journalist, influencing literary discourse in the 20th century. Received the Pulitzer Prize for Biography in 1939 for 'Daniel Webster.'

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D. H. Lawrence

English novelist and poet, 'Sons and Lovers'
Born
September 11th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1930 95 years ago — 44 years old

A significant figure in early 20th-century literature, contributions include novels, poems, and plays. Through exploration of human relationships, sexuality, and emotional struggles, created a distinct voice in literature. Works frequently reflected experiences in England and the American Southwest, merging nature and psychology. Notable works encompass 'Sons and Lovers', 'Women in Love', and 'Lady Chatterley's Lover', each contributing to deep discussions on society and intimacy. Engaged in literary criticism and social commentary, influencing contemporary thought.

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Heinrich Hoffmann

German photographer and art dealer
Born
September 12th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 72 years old

A photographer and art dealer, contributed significantly to the visual documentation of Nazi Germany, operating a photography studio in Berlin. Worked as the official photographer for the National Socialist German Workers' Party, capturing many portraits of Adolf Hitler. Published photographic works that included propaganda materials and art catalogs which supported the political regime during the 1930s and 1940s.

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