What Happened This Year 1891

Born in 1891

John William McCormack

American politician, 53rd House Speaker
Born
December 21st, 1891 133 years ago
Died
1980 45 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.

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Feodor Stepanovich Rojankovsky

Illustrator and painter of children's books
Born
December 24th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1970 54 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.

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Clarrie Grimmett

Cricketer and leg-spin bowler
Born
December 25th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1980 45 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.

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Kenneth Anderson

English Soldier and Gibraltar Governor
Born
December 25th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1959 66 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.

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Henry Miller

Author of Tropic of Cancer
Born
December 26th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1980 45 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.

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Osip Mandelstam

Polish-Russian poet and critic
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
December 27th, 1938 86 years ago — 47 years old

This individual was a prominent poet and literary critic in 20th century Russia. Active during the Silver Age of Russian poetry, he faced criticism from the Soviet government due to his political views and the content of his work. The poet's collection, 'Stone' (1916), contained some of his most significant poems, exploring themes of suffering, exile, and oppression. In the late 1930s, persecution intensified, leading to arrest and ultimately death in a prison camp. His legacy endures through his poignant poetry and critical essays, influencing future generations of writers and intellectuals.

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Adolphus Busch III

American businessman and brewer
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1946 78 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent figure in the brewing industry, played a crucial role in the expansion of Anheuser-Busch. Served as the president of the company from 1934 to 1946, overseeing the production of iconic beers such as Budweiser and Michelob. Contributed to the development of marketing strategies that solidified the company's position in the American market. Instrumental in increasing the production capacity of breweries during the post-World War II era.

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Bryn Lewis

Welsh International Rugby Player
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1917 108 years ago — 26 years old

Played as a forward in rugby union and represented Wales at the international level. Participated in key matches during the early 20th century. Contributed to the growth of rugby in Wales and was one of the prominent players of his time. His career was cut short due to his untimely death in 1917 while serving in World War I.

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Ilya Ehrenburg

Russian journalist and author
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1967 57 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1891, a notable Russian journalist and author emerged as a prominent figure during the 20th century. Starting as a writer, contributed significantly to literature and journalism. Played a crucial role in Soviet propaganda during World War II, influencing public perception through various articles and writings. Authored several significant works, including 'The Thaw' and 'The Seventh Companion,' which highlighted the social issues of the time. In addition to journalism, engaged in the writing of novels, essays, and plays, reflecting the complexities of Soviet society. Ehrenburg's literary contributions and involvement in political discourse marked a substantial part of Soviet cultural life until death in 1967.

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