What Happened This Year 1894

Born in 1894

J. Lister Hill

American politician and senator
Born
December 29th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 90 years old

Served as a United States senator from Alabama from 1938 to 1969. Played a significant role in the establishment of various health and education initiatives during tenure. Contributed to the creation of the National Health Service and worked on civil rights legislation. Advocated for federal funding for education and healthcare.

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Carl Mayer

Austrian-English screenwriter, The Cabinet
Born
November 20th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1944 80 years ago — 47 years old

Carl Mayer was a screenwriter who contributed significantly to early cinema. He co-wrote the influential silent film 'The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari' in 1920, which is often regarded as a cornerstone of German Expressionist cinema. Mayer's work emphasized unique visual storytelling techniques and explored themes of madness and reality. Throughout his career, he collaborated with prominent directors and writers, ensuring a lasting legacy in film history. After the rise of the Nazi regime, Mayer left Germany and moved to England. His career shifted as he adapted to different cinematic styles and narratives, maintaining his artistic vision until the end of his life in 1944.

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Shah Abd al-Wahhab

Bangladeshi Islamic scholar and theologian
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1982 42 years ago — 88 years old

An influential Islamic scholar and theologian, significant contributions were made to Islamic thought and jurisprudence in Bangladesh. Specialization in Islamic studies led to the establishment of several educational institutions aimed at promoting traditional Islamic education. Authored several books on Islamic teachings, focusing on the interpretation of Islamic laws and principles. Played a pivotal role in the development of Islamic scholarship in the region during the 20th century.

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Philip K. Wrigley

American businessman and sports team owner
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1977 47 years ago — 83 years old

Co-founded Lincoln Park Gun Club and served as president of Wrigley Company, a major chewing gum manufacturer. Acquired the Chicago Cubs in 1938, overseeing the team for several decades. Wrigley promoted the development of a successful baseball organization and was involved in various enhancements to Wrigley Field during ownership, which contributed to its lasting legacy.

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Thorleif Haug

Skier; Olympic gold medalist
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
December 12th, 1934 90 years ago — 40 years old

Achieved prominence in skiing during the early 20th century. Competed in the 1924 Winter Olympics in Chamonix, where excelled in cross-country skiing events. Secured three gold medals, marking a significant achievement in Olympic skiing history.

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Alexander Oparin

Biochemist famous for the primordial soup theory
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1980 44 years ago — 86 years old

A biochemist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of the origin of life on Earth. Developed the primordial soup theory, proposing that life began in a nutrient-rich atmosphere with simple organic compounds. Published the influential work 'Origin of Life' in 1924, which laid the groundwork for subsequent research in biochemistry and evolutionary biology. Worked extensively on the chemical evolution of living organisms and the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. Contributed to the fields of biochemistry, microbiology, and the study of metabolic processes.

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Manuel de Abreu

Brazilian physician and engineer
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1962 63 years ago — 68 years old

Graduated in medicine and engineering, contributed to the development of various medical practices. Played a significant role in public health initiatives in Brazil. Engaged in research that aimed to improve healthcare systems and medical technology. Involved in educational endeavors to advance medical knowledge.

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Fritz Pollard

Football player and coach, first Black coach
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1986 38 years ago — 92 years old

Played as a running back and coach in American football. Served as the first Black head coach in the NFL with the Akron Pros in 1921. Had a notable career at Brown University, where he became a star player. Contributed significantly to the sport both as a player and as a pioneer for Black coaches in football. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005, recognizing contributions to the game.

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Maximilian Kolbe

Polish martyr for faith and charity
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1941 83 years ago — 47 years old

A Polish Franciscan friar, played a significant role in religious activities and community service. Founded the Militia Immaculatae, dedicated to spreading devotion to the Virgin Mary. Imprisoned by the Nazis during World War II for his efforts to help Jews. Volunteered to take the place of a condemned man in Auschwitz, leading to martyrdom. Canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1982.

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