What Happened This Year 1889

Born in 1889

Harold Munro Fox

Zoologist and entomologist
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1967 58 years ago — 78 years old

Contributed to the study of insect taxonomy and behavior, focusing on the classification of various insect species. Held a prominent position at the British Museum, where research on the systematics of numerous taxa was conducted. Published extensively in academic journals, contributing to the knowledge of entomology and zoology during the mid-20th century. Engaged in educating future generations of scientists through teaching and mentoring.

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Rudolph Peters

British biochemist and researcher
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1982 43 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of biochemistry. Conducted research on the enzymatic processes involved in metabolism and published pivotal studies. Engaged in academic teaching and mentorship, fostering a new generation of biochemists. Had a lasting influence on biochemical education and research methodologies.

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Bernard Freyberg

New Zealand general and politician
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1963 61 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent military leader and politician, held significant positions during both World Wars. Served as a general in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force and commanded the 2nd New Zealand Division in North Africa and Italy during World War II. After the war, served as the 7th Governor-General of New Zealand, a role which included representing the British monarchy in New Zealand. Freyberg's contributions to military strategy and governance positioned him as a notable figure in New Zealand's history.

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Manuel II of Portugal

Last King of Portugal
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1932 92 years ago — 43 years old

Served as the last king of Portugal from 1908 until the monarchy was abolished in 1910. Ascended to the throne following the assassination of his father, Carlos I, and began his reign during a period of political instability and social unrest. Fled to exile in 1910 following the republican revolution that ended the monarchy. Spent the rest of his life in France and England, remaining a figure of nostalgic remembrance for royalists in Portugal. Died in 1932 in exile, marking the end of the Portuguese monarchy, with his reign being the final chapter in the country's long-standing lineage of kings.

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Refik Koraltan

Turkish politician and Speaker of Parliament
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1974 50 years ago — 85 years old

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.

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Idris of Libya

Libyan King and political leader
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1983 41 years ago — 94 years old

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.

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DeWitt Wallace

Publisher, co-founder of Reader's Digest
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1981 43 years ago — 92 years old

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.

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Albert Plesman

Founder of KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1953 71 years ago — 64 years old

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.

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Taha Hussein

Egyptian historian and author
Born
1889 136 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1973 51 years ago — 84 years old

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.

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