What Happened This Year 1889

Born in 1889

Tản Đà

Vietnamese poet and author of epic poetry
Born
May 19th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 50 years old

Active in the early 20th century, this figure significantly contributed to Vietnamese literature through poetry and prose. The works often reflected the cultural and social issues of the time, integrating traditional elements with modern themes. Many writings engaged with national identity and the struggle against colonialism. His poetry, characterized by a deep emotional resonance, greatly influenced subsequent generations of poets. Additionally, established a reputation as a thoughtful essayist, exploring various aspects of life in Vietnam during a period of significant change and upheaval.

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Henry B. Richardson

American Archer, Olympic Medalist
Born
May 19th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1963 61 years ago — 74 years old

Competed in archery at the 1904 Summer Olympics, securing a bronze medal in the men's team competition. This athlete contributed to the early development of the sport in the United States. His performances during the early 20th century helped establish archery as a recognized sport within the Olympic framework. Participation in the Games marked a significant achievement in archery history.

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Ernst Niekisch

Educator and German politician
Born
May 23rd, 1889 135 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1967 57 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Germany in 1889, contributed significantly to educational reforms and political ideologies. Niekisch served as an educator and became actively involved in politics during the Weimar Republic. He founded the journal 'Die Tat' in 1926, which discussed various social and political issues of the time. Throughout his career, he engaged in various political movements and was a prominent figure in the movement advocating for a new form of socialism that emphasized nationalism. His work aligned with a call for social justice and reform within the context of German society during a vexed historical period. Niekisch faced political challenges and was imprisoned under the Nazi regime due to his opposition to their policies.

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Igor Sikorsky

Aircraft designer and founder of Sikorsky
Born
May 25th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1972 52 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1889, a pioneering aircraft designer who emigrated to the United States from Russia. Established Sikorsky Aircraft in 1923, significantly contributing to aviation technology and helicopter design. Developed the first successful helicopter, the VS-300, which became the basis for many subsequent designs. Played a crucial role in the advancement of rotorcraft and aviation principles, helping to lay the foundation for modern helicopter development.

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Günther Lütjens

German Admiral during World War II
Born
May 25th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1941 83 years ago — 52 years old

Born in 1889 in Germany, served in the Imperial German Navy and later in the Kriegsmarine during World War II. Lütjens held notable command positions, including admiral of the battleship Bismarck. The Bismarck was involved in one of the most famous naval battles of the war, leading to its eventual sinking by British forces in May 1941. Lütjens also commanded several major naval operations in the Atlantic, focusing on anti-convoy actions against Allied shipping.

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Richard Réti

Chess player and author of 'Masters of the Chessboard'
Born
May 28th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
1929 96 years ago — 40 years old

Born in 1889 in the Austro-Hungarian Empire, an influential chess player and author emerged, playing a significant role in the development of chess theory. Contributed to hypermodernism in chess, promoting strategies that control the center with pieces rather than pawns. Authored 'Masters of the Chessboard,' a significant work in chess literature. Participated in multiple international tournaments, achieving notable successes.

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Charles Kay Ogden

English linguist and philosopher
Born
June 1st, 1889 135 years ago
Died
1957 68 years ago — 68 years old

A linguist and philosopher contributed significantly to the study of language and meaning. Developed the Basic English language system, which aimed to simplify English for global communication. Published works on semantics and the philosophy of language, outlining concepts of meaning and reference. Engaged with various linguistic theories and was influential in the understanding of semiotics.

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Beno Gutenberg

Seismologist and founder of modern seismology
Born
June 4th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
1960 65 years ago — 71 years old

Born in Germany, an influential seismologist developed the foundations of modern seismology through extensive research and publications. Emigrated to the United States, where significant contributions were made to the understanding of earthquake mechanics and Earth's internal structure. Collaborated with Charles Francis Richter to create the Richter scale, a widely adopted method for measuring earthquake magnitudes. Served as a professor and researcher, advancing the field with numerous studies addressing seismic waves and their applications.

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Hugo Wieslander

Swedish decathlete with Olympic participation
Born
June 11th, 1889 135 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 87 years old

Competed in the decathlon, representing Sweden at the 1912 Stockholm Olympic Games. Achieved significant results in multi-event competitions during the early 20th century. Won multiple national championships and contributed to the development of track and field athletics in Sweden.

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