What Happened This Year 1885

Born in 1885

Charles E. Merrill

Banker and co-founder of Merrill Lynch
Born
October 19th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1956 69 years ago — 71 years old

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.

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Giovanni Martinelli

Italian tenor and actor in opera
Born
October 22nd, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1969 56 years ago — 84 years old

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.

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Lawren Harris

Canadian painter, Group of Seven member
Born
October 23rd, 1885 139 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1970 55 years ago — 84 years old

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.

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Alice Perry

Engineer and poet; first Irish woman to graduate in engineering.
Born
October 24th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1969 56 years ago — 84 years old

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.

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Sam M. Lewis

American singer and lyricist for popular songs
Born
October 25th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 74 years old

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.

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Sigrid Hjertén

Swedish painter known for modernist works
Born
October 27th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1948 76 years ago — 62 years old

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.

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Ezra Pound

Poet and critic of modernist literature
Born
October 30th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1972 52 years ago — 87 years old

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.

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Harlow Shapley

Astronomer & Milky Way researcher
Born
November 2nd, 1885 139 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1972 52 years ago — 86 years old

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.

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Will Durant

Historian and philosopher, The Story of Civilization
Born
November 5th, 1885 139 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1981 43 years ago — 96 years old

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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