What Happened This Year 1894

Born in 1894

Jimmy McHugh

American composer of popular songs
Born
July 10th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1969 56 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent American composer, contributed significantly to the music industry from the 1920s through the 1950s. Collaborated with various lyricists, producing numerous popular songs that became standards. Many works featured in Broadway musicals and films, particularly during the golden age of American songwriting. Notable compositions include 'I'm in the Mood for Love' and 'On the Sunny Side of the Street.'

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Erna Mohr

Zoologist and entomologist in Germany
Born
July 11th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1968 56 years ago — 74 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of zoology, specializing in entomology. Conducted extensive research on insect physiology and taxonomy. Published numerous papers and studies that enriched scientific understanding of insects. Worked at various prestigious institutions and contributed to educational initiatives in zoology.

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Isaac Babel

Russian short story writer and playwright
Born
July 13th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1940 85 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent short story writer, journalist, and playwright, this individual contributed significantly to Russian literature in the early 20th century. Heralded for vivid characterizations and profound themes, work included short stories inspired by personal experiences and historical events. As a journalist, coverage of the Russian Civil War in 'Red Cavalry' garnered attention. The playwright created the influential work 'Bensimon'. Contributions to literature were cut short due to political repression, culminating in arrest and execution in 1940.

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Dave Fleischer

Animator and director of iconic cartoons
Born
July 14th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1979 45 years ago — 84 years old

An American animator and director, significant contributions included co-founding Fleischer Studios. Created memorable characters such as Popeye and Betty Boop, bringing innovative techniques to animation. Directed the animated feature 'Gulliver's Travels' in 1939, a pivotal moment in animation history. His work laid groundwork for later animation advancements and significantly influenced the animation industry.

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Tadeusz Sendzimir

Engineer and inventor of Sendzimir mill
Born
July 15th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1989 35 years ago — 95 years old

An engineer and inventor, contributions included the development of the Sendzimir mill, a highly efficient process for cold rolling steel. Born in Poland, later emigrated to the United States, where innovative work transformed steel production techniques. Focused on advancements in materials engineering, particularly in the manipulation of metal. Contributions were crucial to the metalworking industry, enabling the production of thinner and stronger steel sheets, which became widely used in various applications.

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Georges Lemaître

Astronomer and creator of the Big Bang theory
Born
July 17th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1966 58 years ago — 71 years old

A Belgian priest and scientist contributed foundational concepts to modern cosmology. Lemaître proposed the hypothesis of the expanding universe, which later became known as the Big Bang theory. In 1927, published a groundbreaking paper outlining the relation between the distance of galaxies and the redshift observed in their light. This work laid the groundwork for much of contemporary cosmological thought. Prior to this, contributed to the field of mathematics and physics, developing significant theories that influenced various areas of science. Lemaître's religious background provided a unique perspective on the intersection of science and faith.

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Percy Spencer

Physicist and inventor of microwave oven
Born
July 19th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1970 54 years ago — 76 years old

An American physicist and inventor developed the microwave oven. Spencer worked with radar technology during World War II and while experimenting with microwave radiation, discovered its heating properties. This led to the invention of the microwave oven in 1945, which revolutionized food preparation methods. Spencer founded a company that manufactured these ovens for commercial use. His work in engineering and physics contributed significantly to advancements in cooking technology.

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Aleksandr Khinchin

Mathematician and academic
Born
July 19th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1959 66 years ago — 65 years old

Contributions were primarily in probability theory and number theory. Developed the Khinchin's theorem in 1924, which concerns the distribution of the sums of independent random variables. Worked on continued fractions and contributed to the study of the foundations of mathematics. Held academic positions in several institutions, including Moscow State University.

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Khawaja Nazimuddin

Pakistani politician, 2nd Prime Minister
Born
July 19th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1965 60 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the second Prime Minister of Pakistan from 1951 to 1953. Held the position of Governor-General of Pakistan from 1948 until the role was abolished in 1956. Played a significant role in the early years of the country's political landscape and was involved in various government policies during his tenure. Followed the leadership of Jinnah and promoted the vision of Pakistan's founding. After losing the prime ministership, continued to influence politics until retirement from public life.

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