What Happened This Year 1887

Born in 1887

Hedd Wyn

Welsh poet who won the National Eisteddfod
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1917 107 years ago — 30 years old

A prominent Welsh language poet, achieved recognition through the writing of lyrical and poignant poetry. Gained significant acclaim posthumously after being awarded the prestigious Bardic Chair at the 1917 National Eisteddfod of Wales, held in Birkenhead, England. This notable award came shortly after tragically dying on the battlefield during World War I, which garnered considerable attention and reflection on the impact of war on artists and literature.

Continue Reading

Lina Tsaldari

Greek politician and one of first women MPs
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1981 43 years ago — 94 years old

A prominent Greek politician involved in the country's political landscape. Played a significant role in the Greek Parliament, becoming one of the first women to serve as a Member of Parliament in Greece. Actively participated in political activities during a time of significant change in the nation's history. Her contributions were noted during her leadership within the National Radical Union party. Engaged in numerous political debates and advocated for various social issues.

Continue Reading

Phil Mead

English cricketer and footballer
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1958 66 years ago — 71 years old

Played as a cricketer for Sussex County Cricket Club from 1896 to 1939. Achieved significant success in first-class cricket, scoring over 36,000 runs and making 85 centuries. Also had a football career, playing for Southampton and contributing to the team's success. Played as a forward and was recognized for athleticism on the field.

Continue Reading

Pio of Pietrelcina

Italian priest and saint recognized for stigmata
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1968 56 years ago — 81 years old

A priest celebrated for spiritual guidance and miraculous occurrences. Ordained in 1910, became renowned for experiencing the stigmata, a phenomenon of having wounds resembling those of Christ. Established the Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza hospital in San Giovanni Rotondo, which became a significant center for healing and spiritual retreat. Recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 2002, reflecting a lifetime of devotion and influence within the Catholic community. Numerous individuals seek his intercession through prayer.

Continue Reading

Oskar Luts

Estonian author and playwright
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1953 71 years ago — 66 years old

An Estonian author and playwright, significant works include the children's novel 'Kevade' and its subsequent adaptations. Luts became an influential figure in Estonian literature, especially noted for his contributions to children's literature and local themes. His plays often depicted village life and social issues in Estonia, reflecting the cultural context of the time. Luts was a prominent voice in Estonian fiction, and his stories resonate with themes of youth and nature. Luts's writing career coincided with the tumultuous historical events in Estonia, and he remained an essential part of the country's literary heritage until his death.

Continue Reading

Kâzım Orbay

Turkish General and Speaker of Parliament
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1964 60 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent Turkish general and politician served as the 9th Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey. Played a significant role in Turkey's War of Independence and held key military positions. Engaged in politics post-independence, contributing to the establishment of the Turkish Republic. His leadership in the assembly influenced legislative developments during the early Republican period. Had a significant impact on Turkish military and political affairs during a transformative era in Turkey's history.

Continue Reading

Maria Martinez

Native American potter and artist
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1980 44 years ago — 93 years old

An influential potter from San Ildefonso Pueblo, noteworthy for reviving traditional Pueblo pottery techniques. Gained prominence with distinctive black-on-black pottery, a technique that became widely celebrated. Collaborated with her husband, Julian, to create unique artistic works that revived and preserved cultural pottery traditions. Contributed significantly to the recognition of Native American art in the 20th century.

Continue Reading

Le Corbusier

Architect and urban planner, Philips Pavilion
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1965 59 years ago — 78 years old

A Swiss-French architect and urban planner, contributed to modern architecture and urbanism throughout the 20th century. Developed the concept of the 'Machine for Living' and advocated for functional and aesthetic design in urban environments. Designed notable buildings including the Unité d'Habitation in Marseille and the Villa Savoye. Played a pivotal role in the International Congresses of Modern Architecture and influenced the development of urban planning ideals. Developed the Modulor system to achieve harmony in architectural proportions.

Continue Reading

Ruth Benedict

Anthropologist and cultural theorist
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1948 76 years ago — 61 years old

Benedict studied cultures and their patterns, emphasizing the role of culture in shaping human behavior. She contributed significantly to the field of anthropology with her work on the concept of culture as a personality. Her most notable works include 'Patterns of Culture,' which compares three distinct cultures: the Zuni, the Dobu, and the Kwakiutl. Benedict's theories influenced cultural anthropology by arguing against biological determinism. She held a position at Columbia University, where she taught and mentored many students, furthering academic exploration in anthropology.

Continue Reading