What Happened This Year 1885
Born in 1885
Charles E. Merrill
A banker and philanthropist, co-founded Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, revolutionizing the investment industry by making financial services accessible to the general public. Under leadership, the firm grew to become a significant player in the market, offering a range of financial products and services. Emphasized the importance of personal investment and education in finance, contributing to the broader economic expansion in the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingGiovanni Martinelli
An Italian tenor and actor, became prominent in the early 20th century. Began a successful career at the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, where performances included leading roles in operas such as 'Andrea Chénier' and 'Tosca'. Known for remarkable vocal technique and dramatic prowess, established a lasting presence in both Italian and American opera scenes. Active in both concert performances and recordings throughout the 1920s and 1930s, contributed significantly to the popularity of opera in that era.
Continue ReadingLawren Harris
A prominent Canadian painter associated with the Group of Seven, contributed significantly to the development of Canadian landscape painting. Focused on portraying the northern wilderness, utilized vibrant colors and bold forms. Worked primarily in oil and watercolor, capturing the beauty of Canada's landscapes and the essence of its natural environment. Participated in several exhibitions and was pivotal in promoting Canadian art.
Continue ReadingAlice Perry
Born in 1885, this individual became the first woman to graduate with an engineering degree from an Irish university, earning a degree from University College Dublin in 1906. This person also published poetry that reflected her experiences and insights. In addition to her engineering career, contributions to literature included works that captured the essence of her time and her views on the changing roles of women in society. Throughout her life, mentorship and support for women in engineering and academia were priorities, leading the way for future generations in these fields.
Continue ReadingSam M. Lewis
Born in 1885, this individual became a prominent figure in American music, particularly in the realm of songwriting and lyricism. Collaborated with various composers including the well-known songwriting team of Lewis and his partners. Contributed to the popular music scene during the early to mid-20th century, writing lyrics for many standards that defined the era. His works have been performed by numerous artists and continue to be celebrated in American musical history.
Continue ReadingSigrid Hjertén
A prominent Swedish painter and illustrator, recognized for contributions to modernist art. Hjertén studied at the Royal Swedish Academy of Fine Arts and later ventured to Paris, where she became influenced by the Fauvist movement. The artist played a vital role in the development of early 20th-century Swedish modernism. Hjertén's works often depicted vibrant colors, expressive forms, and personal themes. She was married to painter Anna Cassel, with whom she shared both artistic and personal experiences. Hjertén's art gained posthumous recognition, showcasing the emotional depth and technical skill characteristic of her style.
Continue ReadingEzra Pound
A key figure in the modernist movement, this American poet and critic significantly influenced 20th-century literature. Contributions included his role in championing Imagism and Vorticism, which focused on clarity of expression and precision of imagery. He worked as an editor for various publications and promoted the works of other writers, including T.S. Eliot and James Joyce. In later years, the controversial political views expressed through his broadcasts during World War II led to his arrest and subsequent confinement in a mental hospital.
Continue ReadingHarlow Shapley
Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy through research on the structure and size of the Milky Way galaxy. Served as the director of the Mount Wilson Observatory and later the Director of the Harvard College Observatory. Developed methods to determine the distances of stars, leading to a better understanding of the universe's scale. Advocated for science education and popularization of astronomy.
Continue ReadingWill Durant
An American historian and philosopher, contributed significantly to popularizing history through writings. Co-authored with his wife, authored a multi-volume series, The Story of Civilization, which detailed Western history from ancient times to the 19th century. Received the Pulitzer Prize for The Story of Philosophy, which discussed the contributions of various philosophers throughout history. Emphasized the accessibility of historical knowledge and the relevance of philosophy in understanding human society.
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