What Happened This Year 1891

Born in 1891

Edwin Harris Dunning

Commander and pioneering pilot
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1917 108 years ago — 26 years old

Originated from South Africa and later moved to England, served as a commander during World War I. Became the first pilot to land an aircraft on a moving ship, demonstrating significant advancements in naval aviation. His contributions to aviation in military operations provided a foundation for future developments in carrier-based flying.

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Federico Moreno Torroba

Spanish composer and conductor
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1982 43 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent Spanish composer and conductor, contributions included the creation of numerous zarzuelas, which are traditional Spanish operettas. Significant works include 'Luisa Fernanda' and 'Maravilla.' Moreno Torroba also composed symphonic and chamber music, achieving recognition for his efforts in establishing a modern approach to Spanish music. Conducted various symphony orchestras and worked with renowned classical performers throughout his career. Received honors for his dedication to Spanish cultural heritage and music.

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August Gailit

Estonian author and poet
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1960 65 years ago — 69 years old

An Estonian author and poet, contributed significantly to Estonian literature during the 20th century. His works explored themes of identity, nature, and the human experience. Gailit's literary career is notable for the exploration of Estonian culture and history through a modernist lens. His writing reflects the socio-political changes occurring in Estonia during his lifetime, particularly the impacts of war and occupation. He published several novels, short stories, and poetry collections, gaining recognition for his distinctive style and use of language. Notable works include the novel 'Tooma ja Toots', which highlights rural life in Estonia.

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Annie Elizabeth Delany

American dentist and author of memoir
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1995 30 years ago — 104 years old

A dentist and author, contributed significantly to the field of dentistry as one of the first African American women to graduate from an American dental school. Published a memoir with sister Sadie titled "Having Our Say: The Delany Sisters' First 100 Years," which chronicled their lives from the Jim Crow era to the 1990s, featuring their experiences and perspectives on race and resilience. The memoir gained significant acclaim and was adapted into a stage play.

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Mae Busch

Australian actress in silent films
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1946 79 years ago — 55 years old

Originating from Australia, a prominent actress emerged in the silent film era and transitioned into sound films. Starred in several successful productions, gaining recognition for roles in 'The Show of Shows' and 'The Last of Mrs. Cheyney'. Featured in comedy films and collaborated with renowned comedians of the time. Continued to act in films into the 1930s, showcasing versatility across genres until retirement from the screen.

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Caresse Crosby

Fashion designer and publisher
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1970 55 years ago — 79 years old

An American fashion designer and publisher, co-founded the Black Sun Press, a notable art press that published works by various influential artists and authors in the early 20th century. Played a significant role in the Parisian literary scene, promoting avant-garde literature and design. Established a reputation for innovative and artistic book design, collaborating with prominent figures in the art and literary world.

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Emil Julius Gumbel

Mathematician and statistician
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1966 59 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of statistics with a focus on robust statistics and the application of statistical methods in various disciplines. Authored several influential works, including the book 'Statistical Theory and Methodology in Science and Engineering'. Gumbel faced political challenges due to his Jewish heritage during the rise of the Nazi regime and left Germany for the United States, where he continued his work in statistics. His research laid foundations that were utilized in various scientific inquiries and methodologies. Gumbel's work on extremal value theory has applications in fields such as meteorology, hydrology, and engineering.

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Eddie Edwards

Trombonist, famous for jazz performances
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1963 62 years ago — 72 years old

An American trombonist, celebrated for contributions to jazz music during the 20th century. Edwards played with several notable bands and artists throughout his career, prominently featuring in the jazz scene. His prowess on the trombone distinguished him in the world of jazz, earning him recognition among peers and audiences alike. Throughout his life, he collaborated with a range of musicians, leaving a lasting legacy within the genre. His career was marked by performances that showcased his technical skill and improvisational abilities.

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Alexander Rodchenko

Russian sculptor and photographer
Born
1891 134 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 1956 69 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent figure in the Russian avant-garde movement, contributed significantly to modern art through sculpture, photography, and graphic design. Developed a distinctive style that emphasized geometric shapes and bold colors. Instrumental in promoting the principles of Constructivism, merging art with social purposes. His work extended into advertising and magazine design, redefining visual communication in the early 20th century. Achievements included influential exhibitions and collaborations with fellow artists.

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