What Happened This Year 1896

Born in 1896

Ralph Horween

American football player and coach
Born
August 3rd, 1896 128 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1997 27 years ago — 100 years old

Played as a halfback for Harvard University and later coached at the same institution. Contributed to the development of American football through coaching and strategy. His coaching and playing experiences in collegiate football were significant during the early years of the sport.

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Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings

Author of The Yearling
Born
August 8th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1953 71 years ago — 57 years old

An American author and academic, contributed significantly to literature with a focus on rural life in Florida. The work 'The Yearling' received the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1939, highlighting the coming-of-age story of a young boy and his pet fawn. Rawlings's writing often drew on her experiences in Florida, capturing the struggles and realities of farm life during the early 20th century. In addition to novels, she published numerous short stories and essays, showcasing her versatility as a writer. Her dedication to her craft helped elevate the representation of Southern literature.

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Jean Piaget

Developmental psychologist and philosopher
Born
August 9th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1980 44 years ago — 84 years old

This individual developed theories in cognitive development and contributed significantly to educational psychology. The primary focus was on how children understand the world around them through active engagement and exploration. Notable works include the formulation of stages of cognitive development, which outlined how children's thinking evolves from infancy through adolescence. The influence on education and the understanding of child psychology is widely recognized, and the theories continue to be studied and applied in various educational contexts.

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Erich Hückel

German physicist and chemist
Born
August 9th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1980 45 years ago — 83 years old

A physicist and chemist engaged in theoretical studies, contributed significantly to the fields of physical chemistry and quantum mechanics. Developed the Hückel method for molecular orbital calculations, providing a framework for understanding the electronic structure of molecules. Worked at institutions such as the University of Göttingen and the University of Göttingen contributing to advancements in chemical theory until retirement.

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Theodor Luts

Estonian director and cinematographer
Born
August 14th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1980 44 years ago — 84 years old

Contributed significantly to Estonian cinema during the 20th century. Directed the film "Viimne reliikvia" in 1969, which became a pivotal work in the national film industry. Produced films that often depicted the struggles and joys of Estonian life, reflecting historical and cultural themes. Collaborated with other artists to promote Estonian cinema on the international stage. Served as a mentor to a generation of filmmakers, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of cinematography.

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Albert Ball

English fighter pilot in World War I
Born
August 14th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1917 107 years ago — 20 years old

A British fighter pilot, notable contributions occurred during World War I. Activities included combat missions in the Royal Flying Corps. Achieved high acclaim for aerial victories and strategic aerial reconnaissance. Recognized as a skilled pilot, ranked as a captain, and awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery. His engagements with enemy aircraft established a reputation for exceptional flying skills.

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Catherine Doherty

Russian-Canadian activist and founder
Born
August 15th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1985 39 years ago — 89 years old

An activist founded the Madonna House Apostolate in 1947, providing spiritual and material support to the poor. This organization focused on community living and social outreach, helping individuals in need through various programs. Immigrating to Canada from Russia in her youth, played a crucial role in bridging Eastern and Western Christian traditions. Worked extensively in promoting social justice and lived a life devoted to prayer and service.

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Gerty Cori

Czech-American biochemist, Nobel laureate
Born
August 15th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1957 67 years ago — 61 years old

A biochemist and physiologist contributed significantly to understanding glycogen metabolism. Conducted research alongside husband, exploring the Cori cycle, which describes the process of energy production in the liver and muscles. The work provided foundational knowledge in biochemistry and medicine. In 1947, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, becoming the first woman to receive this honor in the category.

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Paul Outerbridge

American photographer and educator
Born
August 15th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1958 66 years ago — 62 years old

Significant contributions were made to photography, especially through the use of color photography in the early to mid-20th century. Outerbridge combined modernist aesthetics with commercial approaches, producing work that spanned advertising, fashion, and still life. A notable advocate for the artistic potential of color photography, educational roles were fulfilled through teaching at institutions such as the California School of Fine Arts. Outerbridge's innovative techniques influenced future generations of photographers.

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