What Happened This Year 1891

Born in 1891

John William McCormack

American politician, 53rd House Speaker
Born
December 21st, 1891 134 years ago
Died
1980 46 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a lawyer and politician, representing Massachusetts in the United States House of Representatives. Held the position of Speaker of the House from 1962 to 1971. During tenure, advocated for civil rights and various social welfare programs. Played a significant role in the legislative processes of the Johnson administration, particularly with the Great Society initiatives.

Continue Reading

Feodor Stepanovich Rojankovsky

Illustrator and painter of children's books
Born
December 24th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1970 55 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Russia in 1891, this illustrator and painter specialized in children's book illustrations and is recognized for the enchanting quality of his artwork. Migrating to the United States in the 1920s, he contributed to various children's magazines and publications. His illustrations often featured whimsical and fantastical elements, appealing to young readers. Notably, the works included illustrations for renowned publishers such as Rand McNally and Holt, Rinehart and Winston. Over his career, he created visual representations for classic children's stories that have endured over the decades.

Continue Reading

Kenneth Anderson

English Soldier and Gibraltar Governor
Born
December 25th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1959 67 years ago — 67 years old

Served as a soldier in the British Army and held the position of Governor of Gibraltar. Led military operations during World War II, particularly in the Mediterranean region. Managed key administrative responsibilities in Gibraltar, overseeing its strategic military importance during the war period. Contributed to the island's defense and governance during a time of conflict, ensuring stability and security.

Continue Reading

Clarrie Grimmett

Cricketer and leg-spin bowler
Born
December 25th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1980 46 years ago — 88 years old

One of the leading leg-spin bowlers of his time, played international cricket for Australia after initially debuting for New Zealand. Established a reputation for exceptional skill and accuracy. Made a significant mark in Test cricket during the 1920s and 1930s, becoming a key player for Australia. Achieved remarkable figures in matches, particularly notable for his ability to take wickets consistently. Inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame for outstanding contributions to the sport.

Continue Reading

Henry Miller

Author of Tropic of Cancer
Born
December 26th, 1891 134 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1980 46 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1891, this American author and painter gained prominence through innovative literary works that blended autobiography and fiction. His book 'Tropic of Cancer,' published in 1934, was initially banned in the United States due to its controversial content but later became a celebrated classic. Miller's writing often explored themes of sexuality, freedom, and the artistic experience. Throughout his life, he also produced a significant body of visual art, contributing to the understanding of the interplay between writing and visual creativity.

Continue Reading

Joseph Cahill

Australian politician, NSW Premier
Born
1891 135 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1959 66 years ago — 68 years old

Served as the 29th Premier of New South Wales from 1952 until 1959. His leadership spanned a period of significant public infrastructure development and economic growth in the state. Advocated for the construction of the Sydney Opera House, which later became a symbol of Australian architecture. Contributed to various social reform initiatives during his tenure.

Continue Reading

Tell Berna

American middle-distance runner
Born
1891 135 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1975 51 years ago — 84 years old

Competed in middle and long-distance events. Participated in the 1924 Summer Olympics in Paris, representing the United States. Career highlighted by success in national championships and various track meets.

Continue Reading

Sam Jaffe

American actor in 'The Day the Earth Stood Still'
Born
1891 135 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1984 42 years ago — 93 years old

An American actor featured in numerous films and television series, gained significant recognition for the role of Dr. Helen Benson in the classic science fiction film 'The Day the Earth Stood Still'. Jaffe's career spanned several decades, showcasing versatility through various character portrayals. His contributions to cultural works during the Golden Age of Hollywood remain noteworthy, with performances that often attracted critical acclaim. In later years, continued to appear in significant films and television series, maintaining relevance in the entertainment industry until passing in 1984.

Continue Reading

Ann Little

American actress in silent films
Born
1891 135 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1984 42 years ago — 93 years old

Active in the early 20th century, this actress starred in silent films. Gained attention for performances in movies such as 'The Coming of Amos' (1913) and 'The Count of Monte Cristo' (1922). Transitioned to sound films but her prominence diminished with the advent of talkies. Continued to work in various acting roles throughout the late 1920s and early 1930s.

Continue Reading