What Happened This Year 1894

Historical Events from This Year 1894 (View all 29)

Science & Technology

Edison Films a Sneezing Man, Patents Granted

January 7th, 1894 131 years ago

Thomas Edison captured a brief film of a man sneezing, showcasing early motion picture technology. On the same day, his assistant William Kennedy Dickson was awarded a patent for motion picture film, marking a significant day in the evolution of cinema. This innovative move represented a leap in visual entertainment, as motion pictures began to captivate audiences and set the stage for future advancements in film. The short clip served as both a technical demonstration and an entertaining spectacle, reflecting the playful experimentation characteristic of Edison's work.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Cripple Creek Miners' Strike Initiated

February 7th, 1894 131 years ago

The Cripple Creek miners' strike commenced as a response to wage reductions imposed by mining companies. Led by the Western Federation of Miners, miners sought to challenge the employers on labor rights, safety conditions, and fair pay. The strike gathered significant momentum, attracting attention from other labor organizations and drawing national focus to the miners' plight in Colorado. Workers engaged in various forms of protest, including a walkout and seeking public support.

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Crime & Law

Émile Henry Bombs Cafe Terminus in Paris

February 12th, 1894 131 years ago

Anarchist Émile Henry detonated a bomb at the Cafe Terminus in Paris, resulting in the death of one individual and injuring twenty others. This act was part of a broader anarchist movement's violent campaign against the government. Henry, motivated by his beliefs against state repression, chose the busy café as a target to maximize attention. Authorities quickly pursued Henry, who was captured shortly thereafter.

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Sports & Recreation

First Stanley Cup Ice Hockey Competition

March 22nd, 1894 130 years ago

The inaugural Stanley Cup ice hockey competition took place in Montreal, Canada, featuring a challenging matchup between the Montreal Hockey Club and the Ottawa Hockey Club. The Montreal team emerged victorious, clinching the championship in a thrilling contest. This competition was established to determine the best amateur hockey team in Canada, setting a precedent for future tournaments and establishing an annual tradition in the sport.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Coxey's Army Marches to Washington, D.C.

March 25th, 1894 130 years ago

Coxey's Army was a protest march organized by Jacob Coxey, a businessman from Ohio, demanding government action to alleviate unemployment during the economic depression. Departing from Massillon, Ohio, it aimed to reach Washington, D.C., to present a petition for the government to create jobs through public works projects. The march consisted of about 500 individuals, many of whom were unemployed workers and their families who rallied for economic reform and the construction of roads to stimulate job growth.

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Entertainment

First Commercial Motion Picture House Opens

April 14th, 1894 130 years ago

A groundbreaking venue featuring Kinetoscopes for movie viewing opened in New York City. Containing ten machines, this space provided patrons with the opportunity to experience moving pictures in a novel way. It marked a significant milestone in the evolution of entertainment, serving as a precursor to modern movie theaters.

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Born in 1894 (View all 235)

Satyendra Nath Bose

Indian physicist recognized for Bose-Einstein statistics
Born
January 1st, 1894 131 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1974 51 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed significantly to theoretical physics, particularly in quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics. Developed Bose-Einstein statistics, which describes the statistical distribution of indistinguishable particles. Collaborated with Albert Einstein on quantum theory, leading to the concept of Bose-Einstein condensates. Served as a professor and published numerous papers, influencing the field of physics.

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ZaSu Pitts

American actress in silent films
Born
January 3rd, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1963 62 years ago — 69 years old

Beginnings in the film industry started in 1917 with silent films. Gained prominence during the 1920s and 1930s, featuring in numerous comedies. Collaboration with Charlie Chaplin in 'The Kid' marked a significant moment in her career. Transitioned successfully to talkies, becoming a recognizable figure in American cinema. Also worked in radio and television throughout her career.

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Georges Carpentier

Boxer and actor; World Champion titleholder
Born
January 12th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1975 49 years ago — 81 years old

Became a prominent boxer in the early 20th century, earning the World Heavyweight Championship title in 1921. Transitioned into acting, featuring in several films, with significant roles in 'The Fighting Eagle' and 'The Man of Iron'. Competed successfully against notable opponents, establishing a reputation as a skilled fighter during the golden age of boxing. After retiring from boxing, continued to engage in the entertainment industry, showcasing versatility.

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Ecaterina Teodoroiu

Romanian soldier and nurse in WWI
Born
January 14th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 23 years old

Served as a soldier and nurse during World War I. Joined the Romanian army when the country entered the war in 1916. Fought on the front lines and was recognized for bravery in battle. Treated wounded soldiers, using nursing skills to care for them. Died in combat in 1917 at the Battle of Mărăști, becoming a national symbol of sacrifice and patriotism.

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Irving Mills

American publisher of jazz music
Born
January 16th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1985 40 years ago — 91 years old

A major figure in the development of the jazz music industry in the early 20th century, significantly contributed to the promotion of jazz through publishing and record production. Founded the Mills Music Company in 1918, which became a key player in music publishing. Worked with notable jazz artists and played an essential role in the careers of several prominent musicians by providing them with platforms to share their music. His strategies helped shape the commercial landscape of jazz, making it more accessible to the broader public.

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Toots Mondt

Wrestler and promoter of professional wrestling
Born
January 18th, 1894 131 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1894, a significant figure in professional wrestling as both a wrestler and promoter. Contributed to the popularity of the sport through innovative marketing techniques and the development of regional wrestling promotions. Helped establish key wrestling territories and trained many future stars. Also played a role in shaping the modern style of professional wrestling, integrating various fighting techniques and entertainment elements.

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People Who Died in 1894 (View all 68)

Heinrich Hertz

German physicist, radio wave pioneer
Born
February 22nd, 1857 168 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1894 131 years ago — 36 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of electromagnetism and wave theory. Conducted experiments in 1887 that proved the existence of electromagnetic waves, thus laying the groundwork for radio technology. Hertz's work verified James Clerk Maxwell's theories and demonstrated properties of waves, such as reflection, refraction, and polarization. Developed apparatus that generated and detected radio waves, furthering the understanding of wireless communication. The unit of frequency, hertz, is named in his honor, reflecting his contributions to the field.

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Hans von Bülow

Pianist and composer
Born
January 8th, 1830 195 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1894 131 years ago — 64 years old

Born in Germany, this pianist and composer played a vital role in the music scene of the 19th century. A prominent figure in the world of classical music, he studied under notable teachers and gained recognition for exceptional skill as a pianist and conductor. He was a key advocate for the music of Wagner and Brahms, often performing their works. The individual also composed original pieces, gaining attention for both piano and orchestral music. Extensive touring throughout Europe further established a significant presence in the classical music community, illustrating the ability to interpret and execute complex compositions.

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Eugène Charles Catalan

Mathematician known for Catalan's conjecture
Born
May 30th, 1814 210 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1894 131 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to number theory and combinatorial mathematics. Formulated Catalan's conjecture regarding the uniqueness of solutions for certain powers. His work in mathematical analysis and algebraic structures influenced multiple areas in mathematics. Served as a professor at several prestigious institutions, enhancing academic infrastructure in mathematical studies.

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Ned Williamson

American baseball player and shortstop
Born
October 24th, 1857 167 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1894 131 years ago — 36 years old

Played in Major League Baseball primarily as a shortstop for the Chicago White Stockings. Made significant contributions during the 1880s, particularly in the 1883 season. Achieved a standout record with 27 home runs in a single season, which set a benchmark in the sport. Not only excelled defensively but also showcased power hitting that influenced future trends in baseball.

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Lajos Kossuth

Hungarian politician and freedom fighter
Born
September 19th, 1802 222 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1894 130 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent figure in Hungarian history, played a significant role in the 1848 Revolution against Habsburg rule. Led the Hungarian government during the revolution, advocating for national independence and civil liberties. After the failure of the revolution, lived in exile, continuing to support Hungarian independence efforts through writing and speeches. His influence spread across Europe, inspiring various national movements. Eventually returned to Hungary, where he remained a celebrated figure.

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Achille Vianelli

Italian painter and academic artist
Born
December 21st, 1803 221 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1894 130 years ago — 90 years old

Achille Vianelli was an Italian painter and academic primarily active in the 19th century. Specializing in historical and portrait painting, Vianelli contributed to the Italian art scene through both his artworks and teaching. His involvement with the Academy of Fine Arts in Venice helped shape the next generation of artists. Vianelli's style reflected the traditions of Romanticism, focusing on emotive and dramatic themes, often marrying historical accuracy with romanticized interpretations. His legacy includes the promotion of academic ideals in painting and a body of work that captures the spirit of his time.

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