What Happened This Year 1887

Born in 1887

William Kolehmainen

Runner and Olympic coach
Born
December 30th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1967 58 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1887, a Finnish-American long-distance runner and coach excelled in athletic competition during the early 20th century. Competed in the 1912 Summer Olympics, earning a bronze medal in the 5000 meters. After his athletic career, transitioned to coaching, influencing future generations of runners. Contributed to the development of distance running techniques in the United States, promoting the sport through various coaching positions and mentorship.

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Jack Russell

English cricketer and test wicketkeeper
Born
December 5th, 1960 64 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1961 63 years ago — 0 years old

A prominent English cricketer, excelled as a wicketkeeper. Played for Gloucestershire and represented England in Test cricket from 1991 to 1996. Gained recognition for his exceptional skills behind the stumps and solid batting. Contributed to the team's success during a competitive era in cricket.

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Vicente Emilio Sojo

Venezuelan conductor and composer
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1974 50 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent Venezuelan conductor and composer focused on the development of national music. Led the Orquesta Sinfónica de Venezuela, which contributed to the growth of symphonic music in the country. Composed numerous works that integrate Venezuelan folk melodies and themes, showing a deep appreciation for national culture. Instrumental in fostering musical education and appreciation within Venezuela. His efforts helped establish the National Conservatory of Music and promoted local talents.

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John van Melle

Author and educator of South Africa
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1953 71 years ago — 66 years old

Born in the Netherlands, later moved to South Africa where contributions to literature and education were significant. Engaged in various educational initiatives and authored several works that reflected cultural and social themes in South Africa. Played a key role in promoting education and literacy during a time of significant change.

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Paula von Preradović

Croatian poet and author of 'Lijepa Naša'
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1951 73 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1885, a prominent Croatian poet and author contributed significantly to Croatian literature. Focused on themes of national identity and love for Croatia, crafted lyrical poetry that resonated with both her contemporaries and future generations. Authored the lyrics to the Croatian national anthem, which remains a vital part of national identity. Published several volumes of poetry and worked to preserve the Croatian language and culture during a tumultuous period in history. Died in 1951, leaving behind a lasting literary legacy.

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Mitsuru Ushijima

Japanese general during World War II
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 1945 79 years ago — 58 years old

A general in the Imperial Japanese Army, played a significant role during the Battle of Okinawa in World War II. Commanded Japanese forces on Okinawa from 1945 until defeat in June of the same year. Participated in military campaigns across the Pacific theater, showcasing strategic military leadership under intense conditions.

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Felix Yusupov

Russian noble and assassin of Rasputin
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1967 57 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent Russian aristocrat and member of the Yusupov family. Married to Princess Irina Alexandrovna of Russia. Gained notoriety for the assassination of Grigori Rasputin in December 1916, a controversial figure in the last years of the Russian Empire. Post-revolution, fled to Europe, where he chronicled the events leading to the fall of the Russian monarchy in his memoirs. Spent much of his later life in France, engaging with the expatriate community and maintaining ties to Russian royalist movements. Died in 1967 in Paris.

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Cybele Andrianou

Greek actress in classic theater
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1978 46 years ago — 91 years old

Active in the 20th century, pursued a career in theater and film, contributing to the Greek cultural scene. Starred in productions that showcased classic Greek plays and contemporary works. Gained recognition for performances that highlighted the rich traditions of Greek theater. Collaborated with notable directors and participated in significant productions, leaving a legacy within the theatrical community.

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Belgrave Edward Sutton Ninnis

Explorer and Lieutenant in Antarctica
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1912 112 years ago — 25 years old

Served as a lieutenant and explorer during the early 20th century. Participated in the British Antarctic Expedition from 1907 to 1909, which explored the uncharted regions of Antarctica. Ninnis was a member of the team that collected important scientific data and mapped the area. Contributions included surveying land and documenting geological features. Tragically, died in 1912 during an Antarctic expedition, leaving a legacy in the field of exploration.

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