What Happened This Year 1896

Born in 1896

He Long

Chinese general and Vice Premier
Born
March 22nd, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1969 56 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent military leader and politician in the People's Republic of China, significant contributions were made during the Chinese Civil War. Served as one of the founding generals in the Red Army and played a key role in various military campaigns. Held the position of 1st Vice Premier, helping to shape governmental structures post-1949. Contributed to military strategy and governance during a transformative period in Chinese history.

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Joseph Schildkraut

Austrian-American actor known for The Life of Emile Zola
Born
March 22nd, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 68 years old

Born in Austria, an actor gained prominence in American theater and film. Made notable contributions during the silent film era before transitioning to talkies. Gained acclaim for performances in various films, particularly in 'The Life of Emile Zola', which showcased dramatic storytelling. Received an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for the role in 'The Life of Emile Zola'. Also starred in other significant works, including 'The Diary of Anne Frank' and appeared on Broadway, reflecting a successful career in both film and stage.

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Wilhelm Ackermann

German mathematician and logician
Born
March 29th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1962 62 years ago — 66 years old

A mathematician and logician, contributions included work on mathematical logic and the foundations of mathematics. Developed the Ackermann function, an important example in the theory of computable functions. Worked on model theory and was a professor at various universities throughout Germany. His research laid groundwork for future developments in both logic and computer science.

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Johnny Golden

American golfer and tournament champion
Born
April 2nd, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1936 89 years ago — 40 years old

Achieved notable success in golf during the early to mid-20th century. Competed in various national tournaments, showcasing exceptional skill and consistency. Participated in the PGA Tour, earning recognition within the golfing community. Contributed to the sport through competitive play, influencing subsequent generations of golfers.

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Robert E. Sherwood

Playwright & screenwriter, 'Abe Lincoln in Illinois'
Born
April 4th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1955 69 years ago — 59 years old

A playwright and screenwriter contributed significantly to American theater and film. Sherwood wrote several acclaimed plays, with 'Abe Lincoln in Illinois' receiving the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1939. Other notable works include 'The Petrified Forest' and 'There Shall Be No Night.' Transitioning to Hollywood, Sherwood wrote screenplays for films such as 'The Best Years of Our Lives,' which won multiple Academy Awards. His work often focused on themes of patriotism and human resilience.

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Einar Lundborg

Swedish aviator and aviation pioneer
Born
April 5th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 35 years old

Born in Sweden, contributed significantly to aviation in the early 20th century. Lundborg was a pioneer of gliding and played a substantial role in the development of lighter-than-air flight. He achieved notable success with various aircraft designs and was instrumental in advancing aeronautical education in Sweden. Lundborg also actively participated in aviation competitions, showcasing his skills and innovations in aviation technology.

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Frits Peutz

Dutch architect, designed Glaspaleis
Born
April 7th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1974 51 years ago — 78 years old

Born in the Netherlands, an architect specialized in modern architectural designs. Played a pivotal role in the development of innovative architectural concepts throughout the 20th century. Designed the Glaspaleis in Heerlen, an iconic example of modern architecture characterized by its extensive use of glass. Contributed to shaping the urban landscape with projects that embodied the principles of functionalism and the modernist movement.

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Yip Harburg

American songwriter for 'Over the Rainbow'
Born
April 8th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1981 44 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent American songwriter and lyricist, contributed significantly to musical theater and film. Wrote lyrics for the enduring hit song 'Over the Rainbow' from the classic film 'The Wizard of Oz'. Collaborated with composers like Harold Arlen and contributed to various Broadway productions. Involved in social causes and themes through his works, reflecting social commentary and political issues.

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Nikolay Semyonov

Physicist and chemist, Nobel laureate
Born
April 15th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
September 25th, 1986 38 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent physicist and chemist, contributed significantly to the field of chemical kinetics. Served as a professor and director at the Institute of Chemical Physics in Moscow. Received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1956 for work on the mechanisms of chemical transformations. Authored several influential scientific publications and played a key role in establishing chemical physics as a distinct field of study.

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