What Happened This Year 1890
Born in 1890
Vyacheslav Molotov
Played a significant role in Soviet foreign policy from the 1920s to the 1950s. Served as the Soviet Minister of Foreign Affairs from 1939 to 1949. Signed the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact in 1939, which was a non-aggression treaty between the Soviet Union and Nazi Germany. Held various key positions within the Communist Party and contributed to the establishment of post-war Eastern European states under Soviet influence.
Continue ReadingRupert Balfe
Played Australian rules football for the Essendon Football Club in the Victorian Football League (VFL) during the 1910s. Served as a lieutenant in the Australian Imperial Force during World War I, participating in significant campaigns and battles. Balfe faced the challenges of war while contributing to sports before and after his service, representing both athletic and military dedication.
Continue ReadingAlbert Ogilvie
Served as the 28th Premier of Tasmania from 1934 until 1939. Focused on social welfare initiatives, including the establishment of the Tasmanian Hydro-Electric Commission to improve energy supply and support industrial development. Implemented significant public works projects to enhance infrastructure across the state, contributing to economic growth during and after the Great Depression. Promoted education and health reforms during his tenure, aiming to improve the quality of life for Tasmanians.
Continue ReadingVannevar Bush
An American engineer and academic, contributed significantly to the development of analog computing and the early stages of digital computer technology. Played a pivotal role during World War II in coordinating wartime research as the head of the Office of Scientific Research and Development. Helped establish the foundations of the modern computing paradigm through the introduction of the concept of the memex, which envisioned a system of information organization that prefigured the internet. Advocated for the importance of science and technology in policy-making through various publications and initiatives.
Continue ReadingEvert Taube
Contributed significantly to Swedish music and literature. An influential figure in Swedish culture, produced a large body of work that includes poems, songs, and prose. His music drew inspiration from Swedish folk traditions and the sea, often highlighting themes of nature and Swedish heritage. Active primarily during the early to mid-20th century, he became a beloved figure through his works that resonated with the Swedish populace. Continued to influence musicians and writers long after his death.
Continue ReadingFritz Busch
Involved in the world of classical music, contributed significantly as a conductor and directed numerous operas. Led major orchestras in Europe and the United States, gaining recognition for interpretations of works by Mozart, Wagner, and Strauss. Held positions such as music director of the Berlin State Opera. Played a crucial role in the development of orchestral and operatic arts during the early to mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingHenri Decoin
Born in 1890, significant contributions to French cinema occurred through direction and screenwriting. Directorial efforts produced influential works that reflected the complexities of human relationships and societal issues. Collaborated with notable actors and filmmakers throughout a prolific career. Films often showcased themes of moral dilemmas and personal struggles. Achieved recognition in the film community, impacting French cinema during the mid-20th century.
Continue ReadingLauritz Melchior
Born in Denmark and later becoming an American citizen, this tenor achieved prominence in the world of opera during the 20th century. Renowned for powerful performances, he specialized in Wagnerian roles, earning accolades for portrayals of characters like Tristan in 'Tristan und Isolde' and Siegfried in 'Der Ring des Nibelungen'. Melchior's contribution to the Metropolitan Opera established a legacy that has influenced generations of singers. His vocal abilities were complemented by a robust stage presence, making him a celebrated figure in the operatic community.
Continue ReadingAgnes Macphail
A politician and educator, played a significant role in Canadian politics during the early 20th century. Elected as the first woman to the Canadian House of Commons in 1921, represented the riding of York East. Advocated for social justice, women's rights, and prison reform throughout a political career that included serving as a Member of Parliament and later in the Ontario legislature. Contributed to the founding of the Social Democratic Party, advancing progressive policies.
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