What Happened This Year 1894

Born in 1894

Hal Mohr

Director and cinematographer of classic films
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1974 50 years ago — 80 years old

A director and cinematographer contributed significantly to American cinema during the early to mid-20th century. Mohr worked on several notable films, gaining recognition for innovative techniques in both directing and cinematography. His career included significant collaborations and a focus on the artistry of film production. Mohr’s work spanned various genres, showcasing versatility and creativity within the film industry. In the realm of cinematography, he received an Academy Award for Best Cinematography for the film 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'. His contributions helped shape visual storytelling in cinema during a transformative era.

Continue Reading

Jerry Pentland

Australian fighter ace
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1983 41 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a fighter pilot during World War II, achieving significant success in aerial combat. Participated in various air missions, displaying remarkable skill and courage. Achieved the rank of wing commander, leading squadrons in operational roles. Post-war, contributed to aviation training and was involved in civilian aviation.

Continue Reading

Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa I

Hakim of Bahrain
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1961 63 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the Hakim of Bahrain from 1932 until 1961. Played a significant role in modernizing Bahrain during his rule. Oversaw educational reforms and infrastructure development. Fostered relationships with foreign governments to enhance Bahrain's economic standing.

Continue Reading

Ettore Maserati

Automobile engineer and Maserati founder
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1990 34 years ago — 96 years old

An engineer and businessman, established the Maserati brand in 1914. Initially focused on manufacturing car parts and later produced luxury sports cars. Under leadership, Maserati gained recognition for innovative engineering and performance. The Maserati 250F became a celebrated racing car, winning multiple Grand Prix events. Expansion into motorsport marked a significant chapter, with successes in both racing and road car production.

Continue Reading

Alexander Oparin

Biochemist famous for the primordial soup theory
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1980 45 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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Iván Petrovich

Actor in 'The Last Train' and singer
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1962 62 years ago — 68 years old

Born in Serbia and later moved to Germany, Petrovich gained recognition as an actor and singer. His performances in theater and film showcased his versatility and talent. He starred in the film 'The Last Train,' which contributed to his prominence in the entertainment industry during the mid-20th century. Petrovich also performed in various musical productions, demonstrating skills in both acting and singing, contributing to a successful career in the performing arts until his death in 1962.

Continue Reading

Ernest John Moeran

English composer and pianist
Born
1894 131 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1950 74 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1891, a prominent English composer and pianist became known for works that combined elements of folk songs with classical traditions. Studied at the Royal College of Music and later served in the army during World War I. After the war, focused on composition, influenced by English folk music, particularly evident in orchestral works and piano pieces. The Symphony in G Major and the orchestral work 'Whythorne's Shadow' exhibit this integration of folk elements. Moeran's symphonic writing and arrangements contributed to the 20th-century English classical music landscape. He passed away in 1950.

Continue Reading