What Happened This Year 1886
Born in 1886
Ben Travers
An English author and playwright produced numerous farces during the 20th century. Renowned works include 'Rookery Nook' and 'Brewster's Millions.' Contributions to theater included writing for and directing productions that became staples of British comedy. Additionally, adapted works for radio and film, engaging audiences across multiple platforms. His unique style combined witty dialogue with complex characters, which appealed to contemporary audiences.
Continue ReadingMary Wigman
A pioneer in modern dance, contributed significantly to the development of expressionist dance. Established a dance school in Dresden and played a vital role in the rise of German dance as an art form. Created several influential works, including 'Witch Dance' and 'The Temptation of St. Anthony'. Participated in the 1936 Berlin Olympics as a choreographer, showcasing the importance of dance in German culture during this period.
Continue ReadingRené Guénon
Philosopher and author influenced by traditional metaphysics and spiritual traditions. Established a framework for understanding modernity, emphasizing the importance of spiritual truth over materialism. Contributed to the study of symbolism and initiated a critique of modern civilization. His works reflect a deep engagement with various religious traditions, including Hinduism and Islam, advocating for a return to genuine spiritual values.
Continue ReadingWalter Terence Stace
Born in England in 1886, Stace served as both an academic and civil servant in the United States. He studied philosophy at the University of Oxford and later became a professor of philosophy. Stace contributed significantly to the field of mysticism, arguing for the validity of mystical experiences. His influential works include 'Mysticism and Philosophy' and 'The Teachings of the Mystics', where he explored the nature of mystical experiences and their relevance to philosophy. Stace emphasized the relationship between mysticism and philosophical thought throughout his career, impacting subsequent philosophical discourse.
Continue ReadingFerenc Münnich
Served as the 47th Prime Minister of Hungary from 1958 to 1961. Participated in World War I as a soldier and later in the Hungarian Soviet Republic. After the fall of the Soviet Republic, faced imprisonment but returned to political life following World War II. Held key positions in the Hungarian Socialist Workers' Party and played a significant role in the political restructuring of Hungary in the post-war period. Contributed to various reforms during the 1950s.
Continue ReadingKarl von Frisch
Contribution to the field of ethology revealed complex communication methods among bees. Conducted groundbreaking research on the waggle dance, demonstrating how bees convey information about food sources. Served as a professor of behavioral biology, influencing the study of animal behavior and earning international recognition for academic achievements. His work laid foundations for understanding patterns of animal communication.
Continue ReadingAlexandre Stavisky
A financier active in France during the early 20th century, engaged in various business ventures and schemes. Involved in schemes around the bond market, contributed to significant financial fraud that drew considerable attention. The financial scandals led to political upheaval and public outrage in France. The events surrounding these activities and his subsequent death played a role in igniting political tensions in the country.
Continue ReadingHarold Nicolson
An author and politician from England, had a significant role in public life during the early to mid-20th century. Contributed to literature and political discourse through various publications and political activism. Served as a Member of Parliament for the Labour Party and was a prominent figure in the House of Commons. Known for writing extensively on politics, diplomacy, and the arts, blending personal insight with broader observations. Wrote notable works including biographies and books on political theory and diplomatic history.
Continue ReadingMargaret Caroline Anderson
Founded The Little Review in 1914, a periodical that published modernist literature and served as a significant platform for avant-garde writers. The publication was noted for its advocacy of artistic innovation and for publishing works by prominent authors. Contributed to the literary scene with essays and notes on contemporary literature, influencing the development of modernist thought during its run until 1929.
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