What Happened This Year 1886

Born in 1886

Clarence Birdseye

Frozen food pioneer and entrepreneur
Born
December 9th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
1956 69 years ago — 70 years old

An American businessman revolutionized the frozen food industry by founding Birds Eye. His innovative approach to quick-freezing methods, developed during his time in the Arctic, set the standard for preserving food while maintaining its quality. In the 1920s, the company began offering frozen fruits and vegetables to consumers, greatly changing the landscape of food preservation and distribution. The establishment of Birds Eye paved the way for the widespread consumption of frozen foods.

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Victor McLaglen

English-American actor in film
Born
December 10th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1959 65 years ago — 72 years old

Born in England, McLaglen began his career as a stage actor before transitioning to film. He gained prominence in the silent film era and became a leading actor in sound films. McLaglen starred in numerous films throughout the 1920s and 1930s, often portraying rugged characters. His most notable role came in the film 'The Informer,' which earned an Academy Award for Best Actor in 1936. McLaglen also collaborated with prominent directors and appeared in several popular films during his career.

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Florence Jepperson Madsen

Contralto singer and music professor
Born
December 15th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 91 years old

Involved in the field of music as a contralto singer and professor, contributed significantly to the education of music students. Active in performing as a soloist in numerous concert settings throughout the United States. Held teaching positions at various institutions, influencing many aspiring musicians and singers. Focused on vocal techniques and choral methods during the professional career.

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Wanda Krahelska-Filipowicz

Polish politician and resistance fighter
Born
December 15th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 82 years old

Active in the Polish political scene and a member of the Polish resistance during World War II. Worked with various underground organizations to combat Nazi occupation. Advocated for women's rights and social issues within the resistance framework. Contributed significantly to Polish political life post-war through her involvement in various civic initiatives.

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Ty Cobb

Baseball player and Hall of Famer
Born
December 18th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1961 63 years ago — 74 years old

This individual excelled as a baseball player and manager, primarily with the Detroit Tigers. Renowned for exceptional hitting ability, led Major League Baseball in batting average for multiple seasons. Inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1936 as one of its first members. Contributed to the game through competitive spirit and strategic play.

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Hazel Hotchkiss Wightman

American tennis champion and entrepreneur
Born
December 20th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 88 years old

An accomplished tennis player and businessman, contributed notably to the sport in the early 20th century. Won numerous championships, including multiple U.S. National Championships in both singles and doubles. Co-founded the Wightman Cup, an international women's team competition. Played an instrumental role in the establishment of women's tennis organizations and advocated for the inclusion of women's events in competitive tennis.

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Michael Curtiz

Film director known for 'Casablanca'
Born
December 24th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1962 62 years ago — 75 years old

A Hungarian-American director, producer, and screenwriter, specialized in filmmaking during the early to mid-20th century. Relocated to the United States, where contributions to the film industry included a wide range of genres. Directed several iconic films, with 'Casablanca' being one of the most celebrated works. Received an Academy Award for Best Director for the film 'Angels with Dirty Faces'. Pioneered various cinematic techniques that influenced future filmmakers.

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Malak Hifni Nasif

Egyptian poet and women's rights activist
Born
December 25th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1918 106 years ago — 31 years old

Born in 1886, this individual was a prominent Egyptian poet and advocate for women's rights. In a time when women's roles were largely confined to the domestic sphere, contributions highlighted the importance of education and liberation for women. The poetry often focused on themes of gender equality, education, and the empowerment of women within Egyptian society. Through writings and activism, efforts aimed at challenging societal norms and promoting women's participation in public life. Additionally, this figure was involved in the early women's movement in Egypt, advocating for social reform and the inclusion of women's rights in the national discourse.

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Kid Ory

Trombonist and early jazz bandleader
Born
December 25th, 1886 138 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1973 52 years ago — 86 years old

An influential trombonist and bandleader, contributed extensively to the development of jazz music. Rose to prominence in the early 20th century, leading a jazz band that gained attention for its distinctive style. Worked in collaboration with notable musicians, showcasing exceptional talent on the trombone and composition. The band became a significant part of the New Orleans jazz scene and popularized the sound across the United States.

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