What Happened This Year 1888

Born in 1888

Irving Berlin

Pianist and composer of 'White Christmas'
Born
May 11th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1989 35 years ago — 101 years old

Born in Belarus in 1888, a pianist and composer emigrated to the United States. Created a significant body of work in American music, writing songs that shaped the musical landscape. Founded the musical theatre genre significant for its melodies and lyrics. Had a long career that included significant contributions to Broadway as well as popular music. Berlin's songs captured the essence of American life and culture, with several becoming standards.

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Willis Augustus Lee

American admiral and naval officer
Born
May 11th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 57 years old

Served in the United States Navy during both World Wars. Achieved the rank of admiral, commanding naval forces in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Played a crucial role in naval operations, contributing to the defeat of the Japanese navy. Led efforts that resulted in significant victories and advancements in naval strategy and tactics.

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Inge Lehmann

Danish seismologist known for Moho
Born
May 13th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1993 32 years ago — 104 years old

Contributions to the field of seismology included significant research on the Earth's interior. Developed the concept of the Lehmann discontinuity, which delineates the boundary between the Earth's crust and the underlying mantle. Conducted pioneering work in seismology, particularly in understanding seismic waves and their behavior. Published influential papers on earthquakes and the Earth's structure, enhancing the scientific understanding of geophysical phenomena.

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Archie Alexander

American mathematician and engineer
Born
May 14th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 70 years old

Contributions included significant work in the field of structural engineering and mathematical theories. Several engineering principles and practices benefited from innovative designs and applications developed during the career. Theoretical foundations laid by contributions are utilized in various engineering projects. Authored influential papers recognized in academic circles, establishing a reputation in both academia and industry.

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Royal Rife

Microbiologist and inventor of Rife machine
Born
May 16th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed to microbiology and alternative medicine by developing the Rife machine, which purportedly could treat various diseases by using electromagnetic frequencies. Conducted research into the link between viruses and diseases and proposed theories on the existence of specific viruses responsible for multiple ailments. Established a series of experiments demonstrating the effects of frequency on microorganisms. Although his work faced skepticism from the medical community, it inspired later developments in alternative therapies and frequency-based treatments.

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Tich Freeman

English cricketer with record wickets
Born
May 17th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1965 60 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent cricketer, played for Kent County Cricket Club primarily as a leg-spin bowler. Had a notable first-class career that spanned from 1908 to 1939, accumulating over 3,700 wickets, making him one of the leading wicket-takers in cricket history. Achieved notable success in the County Championship, contributing significantly to Kent's dominance in the 1910s and 1920s. Represented England in test matches and became renowned for his spinning abilities, often being utilized as a key player during critical matches. His performance in domestic cricket established a legacy in the sport that lasted long after retirement.

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Adriaan Roland Holst

Dutch writer and poet
Born
May 23rd, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1888, this writer is recognized for contributions to Dutch literature, particularly poetry and essays. Engaged with themes of nature, society, and spirituality, his work often reflected personal and societal reflections. In addition to poetry, he produced prose that critiqued and explored contemporary issues. His literary career spanned several decades, contributing to the cultural discourse in the Netherlands and helping to shape modern Dutch literature.

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Zack Wheat

Baseball player and police officer
Born
May 23rd, 1888 136 years ago
Died
1972 53 years ago — 84 years old

Played Major League Baseball primarily with the Brooklyn Dodgers from 1909 to 1926. Wheat established himself as a prominent left fielder during his career, known for his exceptional batting skills. He achieved a .317 lifetime batting average, accumulating over 2,000 hits. After retiring from baseball, Wheat served as a police officer in his hometown, contributing to the community in a different capacity following his athletic career.

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Miles Malleson

English actor and screenwriter
Born
May 25th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1969 56 years ago — 80 years old

This individual was an English actor and screenwriter who made significant contributions to film and theatre during the early to mid-20th century. In film, portrayal of various characters in films like 'The Lady Vanishes' and 'The Man in the White Suit' showcased versatility. As a screenwriter, work included adaptations of classic literature and original screenplays that enriched British cinema. The influence within the theatre scene included involvement in notable productions, enhancing the cultural landscape of the time.

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