What Happened This Year 1889
Born in 1889
Refik Koraltan
Served as the 8th Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey. Played a significant role in Turkish politics during the mid-20th century. Engaged in legal practice prior to entering politics, contributing to legislative processes and parliamentary decisions. Took part in various political movements and discussions surrounding Turkey's legislative framework. His tenure as Speaker encompassed critical societal changes and developments in Turkey's political landscape.
Continue ReadingIdris of Libya
Ruled Libya as king from 1951 until 1969, overseeing the country's transition to independence from Italian colonial rule. Focused on national development and modernization, promoting education and infrastructure projects. Dealt with opposition from political factions, which ultimately led to the overthrow by a military coup in 1969. Spent the remaining years in exile until death in 1983.
Continue ReadingDeWitt Wallace
A prominent American publisher co-founded Reader's Digest, a popular magazine known for its condensed articles and health information. Established in 1922, Reader's Digest quickly became one of the best-selling magazines in the United States and expanded globally. He dedicated efforts to making quality literature accessible to a broader audience through accessible formatting and compelling content. Under his leadership, Reader's Digest pioneered techniques in mass market publishing and advertising.
Continue ReadingAlbert Plesman
A Dutch businessman established KLM Royal Dutch Airlines in 1919, marking the beginning of scheduled air transportation in the Netherlands. Under leadership, KLM became the world's oldest airline still operating under its original name. Plesman's vision contributed significantly to the development of civil aviation in Europe, and he was instrumental in the international expansion of the airline. His strategic decisions in the early years helped KLM to become a major player in the aviation industry.
Continue ReadingCollett E. Woolman
An American businessman co-founded Delta Air Lines in 1925. Played a significant role in the expansion and modernization of the airline industry. Served as the President of Delta Air Lines and was instrumental in introducing innovations in air travel and customer service. Led Delta through challenging economic periods and transformed it into a major national airline.
Continue ReadingTaha Hussein
An influential Egyptian historian and author, his work focused on Arab literature and culture. His early education was disrupted by blindness at age three, yet he excelled academically at Al-Azhar University and the University of Montpellier in France. He served as Minister of Education and advocated for educational reforms to enhance literacy in Egypt. His book, 'The Days', an autobiographical work, provided insights into his life experiences and struggles. His writings encouraged a re-evaluation of traditional Arab culture and promoted the importance of modern education and thought.
Continue ReadingSong Jin-woo
A South Korean journalist and politician with significant contributions to the political landscape. Played a pivotal role in the Korean independence movement and advocated for democratic reforms. Established various media outlets to promote freedom of expression and informed the public about political issues. Worked towards the liberation of Korea from colonial rule. His efforts in both journalism and politics helped shape the discourse around Korean identity and governance during a turbulent period in history.
Continue ReadingAlexander Patch
Served as a general in the United States Army during World War II. Commanded the U.S. Seventh Army in the Mediterranean Theater. Played a significant role in the invasion of southern France in August 1944, which facilitated the Allies' advance into Germany. Known for leadership during the Battle of the Colmar Pocket in early 1945. Contributed to various military strategies that were pivotal in the European theatre.
Continue ReadingGunnar Gunnarsson
An Icelandic author and playwright, contributed significantly to Icelandic literature. Wrote novels and plays that depicted Iceland's landscape and culture. Gained a reputation through literary works often centered on themes of identity and struggle. Received various accolades throughout a prolific writing career, influencing contemporary and future writers.
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