What Happened This Year 1887

Born in 1887

Violet Jessop

Nurse and Titanic survivor
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1971 53 years ago — 84 years old

Served as a nurse aboard the RMS Titanic during its ill-fated maiden voyage in April 1912. Survived the sinking and was also aboard other vessels that encountered disasters, including the HMHS Britannic, which sank in the Aegean Sea during World War I. After the war, continued to work in nursing and shipping until retirement. Authored an autobiography that detailed experiences at sea.

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Victor Hope

Scottish politician and Governor-General of India
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1952 73 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the 46th Governor-General of India from 1936 to 1943. Oversaw India during critical years leading up to World War II. Played a role in the Indian independence movement, managing relations with Indian leaders. Had a military background as a colonel and previously served as a member of the House of Lords.

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Edwin Muir

Scottish poet and translator
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1959 66 years ago — 72 years old

A Scottish poet, author, and translator contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. Muir's poetry often reflected themes of identity, nature, and the human experience. His works include collections such as 'The Map of the Places' and 'Stony Limits'. He translated several important works from German, notably those of Franz Kafka, bringing important literary voices to English-speaking audiences. Muir was also an influential essayist and wrote extensively on the relationship between literature and life experiences, commenting on the role of the poet in society. Throughout his career, he received recognition for his contributions to literature.

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Anugrah Narayan Sinha

Indian lawyer, 1st Deputy CM of Bihar
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1957 67 years ago — 70 years old

Anugrah Narayan Sinha served as a prominent lawyer and became the first Deputy Chief Minister of Bihar. He played a key role in the establishment of the Hindu Mahasabha and was a significant figure in Bihar's political landscape during the early 20th century. His contributions extended to various social reforms and educational initiatives, where he advocated for the rights of the marginalized. Sinha's political career was marked by his involvement in the Indian independence movement, working alongside several notable leaders of the time. His efforts in promoting legal education and community welfare positioned him as an influential leader in Indian politics.

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Anthony van Hoboken

Dutch-Swiss musicologist and author
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1983 41 years ago — 96 years old

A prominent musicologist and author, this individual significantly contributed to the field of music research. Focused on cataloging and analyzing the works of various composers, produced the comprehensive 'Hoboken Catalog', an essential resource for music scholars. Engaged in education and lectured widely on music theory and history, influencing generational musicians and researchers.

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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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Ernest de Silva

Sri Lankan banker and businessman
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1957 67 years ago — 70 years old

Contributed significantly to the banking sector in Sri Lanka as a prominent banker and businessman. Played a major role in the establishment and growth of various financial institutions. Engaged in numerous entrepreneurial ventures, enhancing economic activities within the country. Active in philanthropic efforts, supporting education and welfare initiatives.

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Lucrezia Bori

Spanish soprano and actress
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1960 64 years ago — 73 years old

Bori gained prominence as a soprano during the early 20th century, performing at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. She became known for her rich vocal talent and achieved acclaim for her roles in operas such as 'Carmen' and 'Madama Butterfly'. In addition to her operatic career, she also appeared in films, contributing to both theatre and cinema. Bori toured extensively, showcasing her skills across Europe and America, and became a celebrated figure in the performing arts.

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Lancelot Holland

English admiral during World War II
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1941 83 years ago — 54 years old

Served as a senior officer in the Royal Navy. Played a significant role in naval operations during World War II. Commanded the aircraft carrier HMS Eagle and later the fleet in the Mediterranean. Contributed to significant naval battles against Axis forces.

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