What Happened This Year 1886

Born in 1886

José Abad Santos

Filipino Chief Justice of the Supreme Court
Born
February 19th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 56 years old

Served as the 5th Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines from 1941 until his execution in 1942. Prior to this role, contributed as a prominent lawyer and jurist, focusing on legal reform and public service. Played a significant role in the establishment of the judiciary system in the Philippines during a tumultuous period of the country's history. Abad Santos was a member of the Philippine Assembly and actively engaged in governance and lawmaking.

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Hugo Ball

German author and poet, founded Dada
Born
February 22nd, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1927 98 years ago — 41 years old

An influential figure in the Dada movement, contributed significantly to avant-garde literature and performance art. Developed a distinct style characterized by nonsensical language and playful experimentation with form. Helped establish Cabaret Voltaire in Zurich, a hub for Dadaists and artists during World War I. Authored several notable works, including "Karawane" and the manifesto of Dada, emphasizing the rejection of traditional aesthetics and cultures.

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Hugo Black

American jurist, Supreme Court Justice
Born
February 27th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1971 53 years ago — 85 years old

Served as a United States Senator from Alabama from 1927 to 1937 and later became an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1937 until 1971. Black was a prominent figure in the court, known for his strong beliefs in civil liberties and the First Amendment. He was a major proponent of the separation of church and state and played a significant role in several landmark Supreme Court decisions that shaped American law. His judicial philosophy emphasized the need for a robust interpretation of the Constitution.

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Oskar Kokoschka

Austrian painter and playwright
Born
March 1st, 1886 139 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1980 45 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1886, this individual was a prominent figure in the Expressionist movement. Best recognized for dynamic and emotive portraits, which showcased his innovative use of color and brushwork, the works often reflected a deep psychological intensity. A versatile artist, this individual also contributed as a poet and playwright, with notable written works that explored themes of humanity and suffering. The participation in the founding of the Vienna Secession represented a significant contribution to the art community, promoting modernist concepts. Throughout the career, the exhibition of artworks in international galleries showcased the distinctive style and thematic depth, attracting attention and fostering a legacy that influenced future generations.

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Kurt Grelling

German logician and philosopher
Born
March 2nd, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 56 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of logic and philosophy during the 20th century. Engaged in research regarding the foundations of mathematics and the philosophy of language, focusing on the nature of definitions and the concept of truth. Grelling was involved in discussions about paradoxes and the limits of formal systems. Co-authored the well-known 'Grelling–Nelson paradox' related to self-referential terms. Served as a professor at a German university, influencing a generation of students in logical and philosophical thought.

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Willis H. O'Brien

Animator and director of 'King Kong'
Born
March 2nd, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 76 years old

Pioneered stop-motion animation techniques. Worked on major films, including the original 'King Kong' in 1933, setting new standards in visual effects. Collaborated with various studios throughout his career, including RKO Pictures. Contributed to the art of animation and storytelling through innovative designs and meticulous craftsmanship.

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Freddie Welsh

Welsh professional boxer and champion
Born
March 5th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1927 98 years ago — 41 years old

Welsh was a professional boxer who competed in the early 20th century. Competing primarily in the lightweight division, Welsh became the world lightweight champion. He held the title from 1914 to 1917. During his career, he was recognized for his technical skills and defensive fighting style. After retiring from boxing, he transitioned into coaching and promoting, contributing to the sport's development in his later years.

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Dong Biwu

Chinese judge and politician, Chairman
Born
March 5th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1886, served as a judge and politician in China. Played a significant role in the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949. Held various governmental positions and actively participated in political activities during the early years of the republic. After the founding of the PRC, served as the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress from 1954 to 1975, contributing to legislative processes and governance during a transformative period in Chinese history.

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G. I. Taylor

Mathematician and physicist with key theories
Born
March 7th, 1886 139 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 89 years old

Contributions to fluid dynamics and turbulence, one of the important figures in applied mathematics. Developed key theories and models regarding the behavior of fluids. Published extensively, including notable works on boundary layer theory and its applications in aerodynamics. Served as a member of the Royal Society and was recognized for educational contributions to mathematics and physics.

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