What Happened This Year 1887

Born in 1887

Harold Lockwood

American actor and director of films
Born
April 12th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1918 106 years ago — 31 years old

Born in 1887, a significant figure in early American cinema, contributed to the evolving landscape of film during the silent movie era. Active primarily in the 1910s, directed and starred in various productions, leaving a lasting impression through performances and technical innovations. His work encompassed several genres, showcasing a remarkable blend of acting talent and directorial skills. Appeared in numerous films, primarily working with leading studios of the time, which helped shape the film industry. Achieved prominence through collaborations with major film studios, contributing to the popularization of motion pictures in the United States.

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William Forgan Smith

Scottish-Australian politician, Premier
Born
April 15th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1953 72 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the 24th Premier of Queensland from 1942 to 1946. His term coincided with World War II, during which he supported the war effort and focused on infrastructure development. Advocated for social reforms and policies to strengthen the state during difficult times. Smith played a significant role in the Australian Labor Party and was influential in Queensland's political landscape throughout his career.

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Felix Pipes

Austrian tennis player and competitor
Born
April 15th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1983 42 years ago — 96 years old

An Austrian tennis player achieved recognition during the early 20th century. Competed in several major tournaments, including the French Championships in 1912. Contributed to the development of tennis in Austria during a formative period for the sport. Participated in the 1912 Summer Olympics, representing the national team and showcasing skills on an international stage.

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Joe McCarthy

Baseball manager with Yankees championship
Born
April 21st, 1887 137 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1978 47 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent baseball manager and player, led the New York Yankees to seven World Series titles during the 1930s and 1940s. Managed teams including the Chicago Cubs and Boston Red Sox. Served as a player and manager in the Major Leagues, contributing significantly to the sport's development.

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Harald Bohr

Danish mathematician, footballer, and scholar
Born
April 22nd, 1887 137 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1951 74 years ago — 63 years old

A mathematician contributed significantly to number theory and mathematical analysis, establishing the Bohr-Mollerup theorem regarding the Gamma function. As a footballer, participated in the Danish national team, competing in the 1908 Summer Olympics. Additionally, held important academic positions, including a professorship at the University of Copenhagen, where exerted influence in mathematics until passing in 1951.

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Denys Finch Hatton

English big game hunter and aviator
Born
April 24th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 44 years old

Born in 1887, contributed to the exploration and hunting culture in East Africa during the early 20th century. Owned a home in Kenya and played a significant role in the early development of aviation in the region. Engaged in relationships with several prominent figures and inspired literary works. His life and adventures were chronicled by others, highlighting the challenges and experiences of the time.

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Kojo Tovalou Houénou

Beninese lawyer and critic
Born
April 25th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1936 88 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent lawyer and critic from Benin, contributed significantly to legal thought and social justice. Graduated with a degree in law and became an advocate for the rights of the African people. Played a crucial role in the legal discourse of the early 20th century, addressing issues related to colonialism and civil rights. Published various works that criticized colonial policies and advocated for legal reform. Engaged in public speaking and activism that focused on the rights of Africans under colonial rule.

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Warren Wood

American golfer with a notable career
Born
April 27th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
October 27th, 1926 98 years ago — 39 years old

Born in 1887, this American golfer made significant contributions to the sport during the early 20th century. Competing in various tournaments, achievements included winning the 1914 Western Open and participating in the U.S. Open. Over the years, showcased exceptional skills and became a prominent figure in American golf. His career spanned several decades during which the game evolved significantly, and he remained a respected player within the golfing community.

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Robert Cushman Murphy

Ornithologist and author of 'Birds of the West Indies'
Born
April 29th, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 86 years old

An ornithologist contributed significantly to the understanding of bird species in the Caribbean. His most notable work, 'Birds of the West Indies', provided comprehensive insights into avian life in that region. Murphy served as a curator of birds at the American Museum of Natural History. Extensive field studies in various Caribbean islands balanced research and practical observation, leading to notable contributions in the field of ornithology. His detailed documentation of bird species established foundational knowledge for subsequent researchers.

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