What Happened This Year 1894

Born in 1894

Ben Nicholson

British painter and modern artist
Born
April 10th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1982 43 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent figure in 20th-century British painting, created a significant body of work characterized by abstract forms and landscapes. His early career was marked by involvement with the St Ives School, where he experimented with still life and abstract compositions. Collaborated with other artists, contributing to the modern art movement in Britain. Later works incorporated influences from cubism and surrealism. Received recognition for innovative techniques and vibrant use of color. Engaged in various exhibitions, showcasing a dedication to the evolution of modern art in the UK.

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Francisco Craveiro Lopes

Field Marshal, 13th President of Portugal
Born
April 12th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1894, served as the 13th President of Portugal from 1951 to 1958. Held the rank of Field Marshal in the Portuguese Army. During presidency, emphasized stability and modernization within Portugal. Governed during a period marked by the Estado Novo regime.

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Dorothy Cumming

Australian-American actress in films
Born
April 12th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1983 42 years ago — 89 years old

Born in Australia, an actress gained recognition in the early 20th century. Transitioned to American cinema, becoming a prominent figure in silent films. Worked with notable directors and appeared in significant productions. Cumming's career included stage performances and film roles that showcased her talent during the silent film era.

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Arthur Fadden

Australian politician and Prime Minister
Born
April 13th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1973 51 years ago — 79 years old

Served as the 13th Prime Minister of Australia from August to November 1941. Led the Country Party and held the position of Treasurer. Guided economic policy during World War II and was involved in wartime finance discussions. Played a key role in the establishment of the national health program. Managed fiscal challenges and promoted post-war recovery plans.

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Nikita Khrushchev

Soviet politician, Premier of the USSR
Born
April 15th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1971 53 years ago — 77 years old

Served as the 7th Premier of the Soviet Union from 1958 to 1964. Played a pivotal role in Soviet politics during the Cold War. Initiated de-Stalinization, easing repressive measures of the Stalin era. Oversaw significant events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962. Promoted agricultural reforms and attempted to improve the living standards in the USSR. Lost power after the rise of Leonid Brezhnev and was eventually removed from office in 1964.

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Bessie Smith

Blues singer and actress, 'Empress of the Blues'
Born
April 15th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
September 26th, 1937 87 years ago — 43 years old

Emergence as a leading figure in the blues genre occurred during the 1920s. Recorded over 160 songs, blending emotional depth and vocal strength. Achieved significant acclaim through notable recordings such as 'Downhearted Blues' and 'St. Louis Blues'. Also performed in theater productions that showcased musical talent. Influence extended beyond her time, shaping the development of jazz and rhythm and blues.

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Elizabeth Dilling

American author and activist
Born
April 19th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1966 58 years ago — 72 years old

An author and political activist, this individual contributed to societal debates in the mid-20th century. Known for opposing U.S. involvement in World War II, expressed strong anti-communist sentiments throughout activities. Authored several works critical of government policies and social movements, including concerns over socialism and communism. Engaged in campaigns and public speaking, advocating for conservative values amidst political controversies.

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Rudolf Hess

Nazi Deputy Führer and politician
Born
April 26th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1987 37 years ago — 93 years old

Born in 1894, served as Deputy Führer in Nazi Germany until 1941. Played a prominent role in the early years of the Nazi regime under Adolf Hitler. In 1941, made a solo flight to Scotland in an attempt to negotiate peace with the United Kingdom, which resulted in his capture and imprisonment. Subsequently, played a significant role in the Nuremberg Trials as a key defendant, where he was sentenced to life imprisonment for crimes against peace. Remained imprisoned until his death in 1987.

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George Petty

Illustrator of iconic pin-up art
Born
April 27th, 1894 130 years ago
Died
1975 50 years ago — 81 years old

An American painter and illustrator, recognized for contributions to the pin-up art genre during the mid-20th century. Petty's work appeared prominently in magazines such as Esquire and Life, depicting images of women in a stylized manner that exemplified the era's aesthetic. His illustrations gained popularity during World War II, contributing to the cultural milieu of the time.

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