What Happened This Year 1896

Born in 1896

Theodore Stephanides

Greek physician and poet
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
April 13th, 1983 42 years ago — 87 years old

A physician and poet, contributions spanned medicine and literature. Authored several medical publications, focusing on public health and preventive medicine. Poems reflected Greek culture and personal experiences, published in numerous anthologies and literary journals. Engaged in health education, promoting awareness about various medical issues.

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Wayne Munn

American Football Player and Wrestler
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1931 94 years ago — 35 years old

Played American football as a tackle and gained prominence in professional wrestling. Achieved notable success in both sports during the early 20th century. Competed at the collegiate level before transitioning to a professional career. Gained recognition for contributions to wrestling as a champion and in various wrestling promotions. His athletic career spanned multiple decades, making significant contributions to both the realms of football and wrestling.

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Tom Davies

American football coach
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
February 29th, 1972 53 years ago — 76 years old

Played professional American football as a guard and later transitioned into coaching. Served as a head coach at several institutions, including the University of Michigan. Contributed to the development of many athletes during his coaching career, emphasizing discipline and teamwork.

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Roberto Gerhard

Catalan composer and notable scholar
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1970 55 years ago — 74 years old

A Catalan composer and scholar, contributions to contemporary classical music included orchestral works, chamber pieces, and music for stage and screen. Gerhard's work often integrated Spanish folk elements with modern techniques. He studied in France and later became a professor at Cambridge University. His compositions reflect a deep understanding of various musical styles and innovative use of instrumentation. Worked in England for many years after leaving Spain during the Spanish Civil War, establishing a significant presence in the British music scene.

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Tina Modotti

Italian photographer and political activist
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1942 83 years ago — 46 years old

An influential photographer and political activist, this individual significantly contributed to the visual documentation of the social changes in Mexico during the 1920s. Engaging with the Mexican muralist movement, the focus on societal issues reflected a strong commitment to political ideologies. Additionally, involvement in communism shaped various artistic and political pursuits. Modeling and acting occurred in early career stages, but photography became the primary medium of expression. Exhibitions showcased the importance of culturally and socially charged imagery, reinforcing political narratives.

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Arthur Shields

Irish rebel and actor in 'The Quiet Man'
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1970 55 years ago — 74 years old

An Irish actor and political activist, this individual pursued a career in theater and film. Significant contributions included performances in productions such as 'The Quiet Man' and 'The Abbey Theatre'. In addition to acting, involvement in the Irish War of Independence marked an important aspect of life. Connections to the Abbey Theatre and participation in the burgeoning Irish theater movement highlighted the engagement in cultural nationalism.

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Walter Lang

Film Director and Screenwriter of musicals
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1972 53 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent American film director and screenwriter, active primarily during the mid-20th century. Directed numerous popular musical films that garnered both critical and commercial success. The work included adaptations of stage musicals and original compositions, contributing significantly to the genre's development in cinema. Employed a style that integrated elaborate choreography and vibrant visuals, appealing to wide audiences. Collaborated with notable stars and creative talent, leaving a lasting legacy in Hollywood.

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Herbert O'Conor

51st Governor of Maryland
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1960 65 years ago — 64 years old

Served as the 51st Governor of Maryland from 1947 to 1951. Played a significant role in post-World War II politics and governance in the state. Prior to governorship, served in the U.S. Army during World War I and later pursued a legal career. Engaged in various political activities and held office in the Maryland House of Delegates before becoming governor. After leaving office, continued to be active in legal and political circles until death in 1960.

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Louis Capone

Italian-American gangster associated with organized crime
Born
1896 129 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1944 81 years ago — 48 years old

Active in organized crime activities during the early to mid-20th century. Operated mainly in Chicago and was involved with various Mafia activities. Aligned with the infamous Capone crime family, which was led by Al Capone. Engaged in bootlegging, gambling, and extortion. Was known for violent enforcement of criminal operations and maintaining influence within the criminal underworld. Died in 1944 while incarcerated.

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