What Happened This Year 1896

Born in 1896

Robert Henry Best

Journalist and WWII correspondent
Born
April 16th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1952 72 years ago — 56 years old

A significant journalist, contributed to news coverage during World War II, particularly focusing on the European theater. Worked for various publications, including a notable tenure with the Chicago Times. Reported on key events and battles, providing detailed accounts that informed the public about the war's progress and implications. Best's career included coverage of significant political and military developments, gaining recognition for in-depth analysis and firsthand reporting from conflict zones.

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Árpád Weisz

Hungarian footballer and coach
Born
April 16th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 48 years old

A Hungarian footballer and coach, played as a forward. Started career at MTK Budapest in the early 1910s and later played in the Italian leagues for clubs such as Bologna and Internazionale. Transitioned into coaching after retirement, leading Bologna to the Italian Serie A championship in 1925. His management style emphasized technical skills and tactical flexibility, contributing to the evolution of football coaching in Italy.

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Señor Wences

Ventriloquist and television personality
Born
April 17th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1999 26 years ago — 103 years old

Born in Spain, a prominent ventriloquist achieved fame in the United States through television performances. Known for the unique character of 'Johnny', a talking puppet that engaged audiences with humor and charm. Gained widespread recognition on shows like 'The Ed Sullivan Show', captivating viewers with skilled ventriloquism. Also performed on Broadway, showcasing talents in live entertainment alongside his television appearances.

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Fred Haney

Baseball player and manager with the Braves
Born
April 25th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1977 47 years ago — 81 years old

Began a professional baseball career in 1919 as an outfielder. Played for teams including the Chicago Cubs and the Pittsburgh Pirates. Transitioned to managing, taking the role with the Milwaukee Braves in the mid-1950s. Led the Braves to a National League pennant in 1957, ultimately winning the World Series that year against the New York Yankees. Served as a manager for several teams throughout a lengthy career in Major League Baseball.

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Ernst Udet

German fighter pilot from WWI
Born
April 26th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 45 years old

A leading fighter pilot during World War I, Udet achieved notable success in aerial combat, becoming one of Germany's top aces. After the war, he transitioned into a significant role in the Luftwaffe as Chief of Procurement and Supply. Udet contributed to the rearmament of Germany and was instrumental in the development of military aviation strategies. His expertise in aviation was also reflected in his later career as a public figure and a test pilot, where he played a pivotal role in shaping aviation policies during the interwar period.

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Ruut Tarmo

Estonian Actor and Director
Born
April 26th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1967 58 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1896, this individual was an Estonian actor and director who contributed significantly to the national film and theater scene. Active in the early to mid-20th century, this figure became a prominent figure in the Estonian cultural landscape. His work in cinema and stage productions helped shape the development of performing arts in Estonia. The individual led various theater companies and was involved in several film productions that showcased Estonian stories and culture. His dedication to the craft influenced subsequent generations of performers.

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Rogers Hornsby

Baseball player and manager, 2-time MVP
Born
April 27th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1963 62 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent figure in Major League Baseball, Rogers Hornsby excelled as a second baseman and later served as a manager and coach. Hornsby played primarily for the St. Louis Cardinals and is noted for his outstanding batting prowess. He won two Most Valuable Player (MVP) Awards during his career, showcasing exceptional offensive skills. His career batting average of .358 ranks among the highest in baseball history. Hornsby also contributed to the game as a manager, influencing players and strategies in the sport during his tenure.

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William Hudson

Engineer and inventor from Australia
Born
April 27th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1978 46 years ago — 82 years old

An engineer and inventor contributed significantly to the field of engineering. Born in New Zealand and later moving to Australia, developed various technologies and innovations that advanced engineering practices. Worked extensively in electrical engineering and played a role in numerous engineering projects that improved infrastructure and technology. Established a reputation for problem-solving and innovative design, influencing the engineering field during the early to mid-20th century.

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Wallace Carothers

Chemist, inventor of nylon
Born
April 27th, 1896 128 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 41 years old

Developed nylon in 1935, marking a significant advancement in synthetic polymers. Conducted research at DuPont, contributing to the understanding of polymer science. Published numerous scientific papers, expanding knowledge of organic and physical chemistry. His work led to the commercialization of nylon, which became widely used in textiles, plastics, and mechanical applications.

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