What Happened This Year 1887

Born in 1887

Saint-John Perse

French poet and Nobel laureate
Born
May 31st, 1887 137 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1975 49 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1887, a poet and diplomat contributed significantly to 20th-century French literature. His works reflected a blend of personal experience and vast historical cultural themes. A notable figure in the literary world, he lived in exile for several years due to political turmoil in France. During this time, the poet composed several acclaimed works that combined lyrical beauty with philosophical depth. In 1960, awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for his exceptional body of work, further establishing a legacy that includes notable poems influenced by his observations of nature, history, and human existence.

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Clive Brook

English film and stage actor
Born
June 1st, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1887, this English actor gained prominence in silent films and transitioned to talkies. Achieved stardom in the 1920s and 1930s, often portraying dapper and sophisticated characters. Received critical acclaim for performances in films such as 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney' and 'The Return of Sherlock Holmes.' Worked extensively in both theatre and film, showcasing a range of talents that defined an era of performance. Later in life, continued to perform in various productions until retirement.

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Bruno Frank

Author and playwright of 'The Living' and 'The Forgotten'
Born
June 13th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1945 79 years ago — 58 years old

Born in Germany, an author, poet, and playwright who emigrated to the United States. Renowned for works that explored themes of identity and exile. One of the most significant works, 'The Living', examined the human experience in the aftermath of war. Further contributions to literature included various plays and poetry that reflected personal and societal struggles during turbulent times. Engaged with the literary community both in Germany and America, influencing future generations through written works.

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André François-Poncet

French diplomat and politician
Born
June 13th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1978 47 years ago — 91 years old

Career spanned diplomat and politician roles in France during key historical periods. Served as France's ambassador to Germany in the 1920s, where diplomatic efforts focused on restoring relations after World War I. Advocated for the Reparation Commission as a means to manage post-war disputes. Played a significant role as a member of the French National Assembly in the 1930s, promoting peace and international cooperation leading up to World War II. Engaged in various international negotiations, contributing to France's foreign policy.

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Kurt Schwitters

German painter and graphic designer
Born
June 20th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1948 77 years ago — 60 years old

A significant figure in modern art, this individual was involved in various artistic movements, primarily Dada and Constructivism. Developed a unique style known as Merz, combining found objects and collage techniques. Created a wide range of works, from paintings to poetry and sound art. Contributed to the avant-garde scene in Europe, particularly in Germany and later in Norway.

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Norman L. Bowen

Geologist and petrologist, origin of granitoids
Born
June 21st, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1956 69 years ago — 69 years old

An influential geologist and petrologist, significant contributions were made to the understanding of igneous rock formation and the processes involved in the generation of granitoids. Pioneered the concept of fractional crystallization and established Bowen's Reaction Series, which illustrated how minerals crystallize from cooling magma in a systematic manner. Conducted extensive research on the geological characteristics of the Canadian Shield and other regions, aiding in the advancement of geological mapping.

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Julian Huxley

Biologist, co-founder of WWF
Born
June 22nd, 1887 137 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1975 50 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent English biologist and eugenicist contributed significantly to the understanding of evolutionary biology. Huxley played a crucial role in founding the World Wildlife Fund in 1961, advocating for wildlife conservation and environmental issues. He published numerous works on biology and evolution, including 'Evolution: The Modern Synthesis,' which integrated genetics with Darwinian evolution. His ideas influenced both scientific thought and conservation efforts during his lifetime.

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Frigyes Karinthy

Hungarian author and journalist, humorist
Born
June 25th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1938 87 years ago — 51 years old

An influential Hungarian author, poet, and journalist contributed significantly to literature and humor. Best known for satirical works, including 'A jövő század regénye' and 'Mindenki', which explored societal issues through wit and satire. Karinthy also engaged in writing about language and communication, making contributions to the fields of linguistics and cultural commentary. He gained prominence in early 20th-century Hungary and left a lasting legacy in literary circles.

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George Abbott

Theatrical director and producer
Born
June 25th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1995 30 years ago — 108 years old

A prominent American director, producer, and screenwriter contributed significantly to American theater from the 1920s to the 1980s. Abbott directed over 100 plays and musicals, establishing a reputation for precision and clarity in storytelling. He collaborated with notable talents in the Broadway scene, guiding productions that became staples of American theater. His works included successful adaptations and original pieces, blending humor and drama. He co-produced the musical 'On Your Toes,' which featured the first integration of ballet into a Broadway show, and achieved a long-standing career that spanned six decades.

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