What Happened This Year 1886

Born in 1886

Walter H. Schottky

Physicist known for Schottky barrier
Born
July 23rd, 1886 138 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1976 49 years ago — 89 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of electrical engineering and physics, particularly in semiconductor technology. Developed the Schottky barrier, a crucial concept in electronics that pertains to metal-semiconductor junctions. Worked on various aspects of quantum mechanics and solid-state physics, influencing later advancements in these areas. Contributed to the understanding of thermionic emission and its applications in vacuum tubes and diodes.

Continue Reading

Salvador de Madariaga

Historian and diplomat with notable scholarship
Born
July 23rd, 1886 138 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1978 46 years ago — 92 years old

This individual served as a historian and diplomat. An advocate for peace and international cooperation, contributed to various academic works focused on political science and history. Notable publications include "The Spanish Civil War" and "The Life of Columbus." Held influential roles in organizations aimed at promoting understanding among nations. Also engaged in public service as a diplomat, representing Spain in various international forums. Worked to foster cultural exchanges and understanding between countries throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Jun'ichirō Tanizaki

Japanese author and literary figure
Born
July 24th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
July 30th, 1965 59 years ago — 79 years old

Tanizaki was a prominent Japanese author whose works explored themes of beauty and cultural identity. Writing during the 20th century, significant contributions included novels, essays, and translations. The literary style often reflected the tension between traditional Japanese aesthetics and Western influences. Received the Akutagawa Prize in 1929 for the short novel 'Shunkinshū'. Important works included 'The Makioka Sisters', which depicted a declining upper-class family, and 'In Praise of Shadows', an essay that examined Japanese aesthetics.

Continue Reading

Edward Cummins

American Golfer, U.S. Open Champion
Born
July 25th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1926 98 years ago — 40 years old

Born in 1886, a prominent American golfer achieved significant success in the early 20th century. Competed in numerous prestigious tournaments and showcased exceptional skill on the course. Best performance occurred in 1913 when secured victory at the U.S. Open, solidifying a place in golfing history. Continued to contribute to the sport through various exhibitions and mentoring younger players until health issues affected playing ability. Contributed to the growth of golf as a competitive sport during formative years.

Continue Reading

Lars Hanson

Swedish actor in silent films
Born
July 26th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1965 59 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent actor in the silent film era, contributed significantly to Swedish cinema. His performances in several films captivated audiences and helped to shape the landscape of early cinema. Gained recognition for roles in 'Sir Arne's Treasure' and 'The Phantom Carriage'. Transitioned to talkies, continuing to work in film until the early 1960s. His work influenced future generations of actors, and he is remembered as a key figure in the development of Swedish film.

Continue Reading

Ernst May

Architect and urban planner in Germany
Born
July 27th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Germany, an architect and urban planner specialized in modernist architecture. Played a key role in urban planning during the Weimar Republic. Instrumental in the development of the Frankfurt Kitchen, which revolutionized kitchen design. Overseen numerous housing projects aimed at addressing the post-World War I housing crisis in Germany. Advocated for the principles of functionalism in architecture. His work during the 1920s significantly influenced residential building design in Germany.

Continue Reading

Fred Quimby

Animation Producer of Tom and Jerry
Born
July 31st, 1886 138 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1965 59 years ago — 79 years old

An American animation producer played a significant role in the creation of the internationally acclaimed animated series Tom and Jerry. Quimby joined Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) in the 1930s, where he oversaw the animation department. Under his leadership, Tom and Jerry won seven Academy Awards for Animated Short Film during the 1940s and 1950s. The series became widely popular and remains a significant part of animation history. Quimby's work contributed to the establishment of MGM as a powerhouse in animated features.

Continue Reading

Salvatore Maranzano

Italian-American mob boss, organized crime leader
Born
July 31st, 1886 138 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1931 93 years ago — 45 years old

Founded the Bonanno crime family in New York City. Played a crucial role in the Castellammarese War and established the Commission to govern organized crime in the United States. Elevated status of Sicilian mobsters in America by instituting traditional Sicilian mafia practices. Met his end in 1931 due to power struggles among rival factions, marking a notable turning point in organized crime history.

Continue Reading

John Alexander Douglas McCurdy

Canadian pilot and Lieutenant Governor
Born
August 2nd, 1886 138 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 75 years old

An early aviation pioneer, played a significant role in the development of aviation in Canada. Achieved fame as the first person to fly a heavier-than-air aircraft in the British Empire in 1909. Later served as the 20th Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia from 1947 to 1952, contributing to the political landscape of the province. In addition to aviation and politics, engaged in various community and educational initiatives.

Continue Reading