What Happened This Year 1888

Born in 1888

Thea von Harbou

German screenwriter and director
Born
December 27th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1954 71 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent figure in the German film industry, contributed significantly to cinema as a screenwriter and director. Collaborated with director Fritz Lang on several important works. Notably wrote the screenplay for the landmark silent film "Metropolis" in 1927, which explored themes of industrialization and class struggle. Directed the film "The Indian Tomb" alongside Lang, showcasing an innovative approach to storytelling. Later transitioned to sound films, continuing to influence the German film landscape during the 1930s.

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F. W. Murnau

Silent Film Director and 'Nosferatu' Creator
Born
December 28th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1931 94 years ago — 42 years old

Born in Germany and later became a naturalized American, the individual was a groundbreaking filmmaker during the silent film era. Renowned for innovative techniques in cinematography and storytelling, this director significantly influenced the horror genre with the film 'Nosferatu' in 1922. Other notable works include 'Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans', which received critical acclaim and won an Academy Award for Best Unique and Artistic Picture. Murnau's collaboration with prominent actors and his unique visual style left a lasting legacy in film history. His career, although cut short by an untimely death, established a foundation for future filmmakers in both Germany and Hollywood.

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Kaarlo Koskelo

Wrestler and businessman, Olympic medalist
Born
1888 137 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1953 71 years ago — 65 years old

A Finnish-American wrestler achieved notable success in amateur wrestling. Competed in the 1920 Antwerp Olympics, securing a bronze medal in the lightweight category. Transitioned to a successful career in business after retiring from wrestling, contributing to the local community and promoting the sport.

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Harald Sverdrup

Meteorologist and oceanographer
Born
1888 137 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1957 68 years ago — 69 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of meteorology and oceanography. Developed the concept of Sverdrup transport, which describes the movement of water in the ocean. Worked with the U.S. Navy during World War II on oceanographic research and its applications for submarine warfare. Served as the director of the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, influencing ocean research. Authored numerous scientific papers that laid the foundation for future studies in physical oceanography.

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Paul Bernays

Mathematician and philosopher, set theory
Born
1888 137 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1977 48 years ago — 89 years old

Contributed significantly to mathematical logic and set theory. Worked closely with renowned mathematicians, particularly in relation to the foundations of mathematics. Co-authored important texts and developed significant concepts in set theory that influenced future research. Engaged in philosophical discussions around mathematics and logic, bridging gaps between these fields. His work laid groundwork for later developments in mathematical thought and formal systems.

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Yitzhak HaLevi Herzog

Polish-born Irish rabbi and author
Born
1888 137 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1959 66 years ago — 71 years old

Born in Poland, one of the prominent rabbis of the 20th century served as the Chief Rabbi of Ireland and later as the Chief Rabbi of British Mandatory Palestine. Advocated for Jewish education and community building in Ireland and Palestine. Wrote extensively on Jewish law, philosophy, and ethics, contributing to the understanding of Judaism in modern contexts. He played a significant role in the establishment of institutions that supported Jewish life in Palestine, particularly during the tumultuous periods leading up to the statehood of Israel.

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Edgar Johan Kuusik

Estonian architect and interior designer
Born
1888 137 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1974 51 years ago — 86 years old

Contributed to the development of modern architecture in Estonia during the early and mid-20th century. Actively involved in designing residential and public buildings that reflected contemporary design principles. Engaged in the integration of functionality and aesthetics in interior spaces. His works combined national elements with modernist ideals, contributing to the architectural heritage of Estonia.

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Elisheva Bikhovski

Israeli-Russian poet
Born
1888 137 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1949 76 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1886, Bikhovski became a prominent figure in Hebrew and Yiddish poetry. Relocating to Palestine in 1925, worked as an editor and translator while participating in the literary community. Bikhovski published several poetry collections, gaining recognition for contributions to modern Hebrew literature. In 1947, Bikhovski's poetry was included in the anthology 'The New Hebrew Literature.' Bikhovski also contributed to literary journals, promoting the Hebrew language and culture.

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Birger Nerman

Swedish archaeologist and historian
Born
1888 137 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1971 54 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of archaeology in Sweden, focusing on the Iron Age and early Viking Age. Conducted extensive research and excavations, leading to a better understanding of Nordic prehistory. Nerman held a position as a professor at Uppsala University, where much of his scholarly work was published. He also served as the director of the Swedish National Antiquities Office and played a role in cultural preservation efforts in Sweden.

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