What Happened This Year 1889

Born in 1889

Francis Spellman

American Cardinal and Archbishop
Born
May 4th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1967 57 years ago — 78 years old

Ordained as a priest in 1916, served in various roles within the Catholic Church and was appointed Archbishop of New York in 1939. Played a key role during World War II, supporting American troops and providing pastoral care. Participated in the Second Vatican Council and worked on issues related to social justice and civil rights. Notable for his influential presence in American Catholicism throughout the mid-20th century.

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Herbie Taylor

South African cricketer and soldier
Born
May 5th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
1973 52 years ago — 84 years old

A cricketer and soldier, Taylor represented South Africa in international cricket. He played as a opening batsman, earning respect for his technical skills and consistency. His international career spanned from 1912 to 1924, marked by impressive performances in Test matches. He also served in the military during World War I. After the war, he continued his cricketing endeavors, contributing to the development of the sport in South Africa.

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Viktor Puskar

Estonian colonel and military leader
Born
May 7th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1943 81 years ago — 53 years old

Served as a colonel in the Estonian Army during the period of Estonia's independence. Participated in the Estonian War of Independence, which established Estonia's autonomy after World War I. Engaged in military reforms and played a pivotal role in modernizing the army structure. His leadership was evident during significant military engagements against Soviet forces. Contributed to the formation of a national defense strategy during a time of geopolitical instability in the region.

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Paul Nash

British painter of war landscapes
Born
May 11th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
1946 79 years ago — 57 years old

A significant British painter, associated with the British Surrealism movement. Engaged as an official war artist during World War I, captured the devastation of battlefields through evocative landscapes. Participated in various exhibitions throughout the 20th century, influencing the artistic representation of war. Published several writings on art and painting, contributing to the discourse within the art community.

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Otto Frank

Businessman, father of Anne Frank
Born
May 12th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1980 44 years ago — 91 years old

A businessman who lived in both Germany and Switzerland. Played a key role in the publication of Anne Frank's diary after the war. Worked in the family business until the rise of the Nazi regime, which led to significant challenges. Emigrated to Switzerland after the war where he dedicated efforts to promoting his daughter's legacy and raising awareness about the Holocaust.

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Abelardo L. Rodríguez

Substitute President of Mexico (1932–34)
Born
May 12th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1967 58 years ago — 77 years old

Served as the substitute president of Mexico from 1932 to 1934, stepping in during a politically turbulent time. Rodríguez's administration focused on economic recovery and social reforms. He implemented land redistribution policies and supported infrastructure projects, which aimed to modernize the nation. His tenure included efforts to address educational needs and promote public health as part of broader initiatives to enhance the quality of life for Mexican citizens.

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Dorothy Gibson

American actress and singer in 'Saved from the Titanic'
Born
May 17th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1946 79 years ago — 56 years old

An actress and singer whose career gained prominence in the early 20th century. In 1912, gained significant attention for starring in the film 'Saved from the Titanic,' which was one of the first films to depict the Titanic disaster. Initially a stage performer, transitioned to silent films with notable roles that showcased talents in both acting and music. Continued to perform until the onset of World War I, after which she relocated to Europe. Eventually retired from performing and focused on her personal life until her death in 1946.

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Alfonso Reyes

Mexican author and literary figure
Born
May 17th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 70 years old

An influential Mexican author and literary figure, contributions spanned essays, poetry, and literary criticism. Served as a cultural ambassador and representative of Mexico through diplomatic and literary efforts. Participated in promoting Mexican literature and culture, significantly contributing to the understanding of Mexican identity. Writings reflected philosophical themes and explored the human experience, blending various literary styles.

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Thomas Midgley Jr.

Chemist and engineer; inventor of leaded gasoline
Born
May 18th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1944 80 years ago — 55 years old

Contributed significantly to chemistry and engineering as an American chemist and engineer. Developed leaded gasoline in the 1920s, which was widely used as a fuel to reduce engine knocking. Later, invented chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) for refrigeration and air conditioning, which became widespread due to their efficiency. The environmental impacts of these inventions were recognized later, leading to significant changes in policies and practices regarding fuel and refrigerants.

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