What Happened This Year 1896

Born in 1896

Lawrence Wackett

Australian commander and engineer
Born
January 2nd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 86 years old

Served as an officer in the Royal Australian Air Force during World War II. Contributed to significant advancements in aviation technology. Played a key role in the development of the Australian Aircraft Company and led efforts to establish a national defense production capability. Participated in various engineering projects that enhanced military operations.

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Dziga Vertov

Film director and screenwriter, Man with a Movie Camera
Born
January 2nd, 1896 129 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1954 71 years ago — 58 years old

Born in what is now Poland, a director and screenwriter emerged as a pivotal figure in the early Soviet cinema. This individual advanced the technique of documentary filmmaking, emphasizing the use of real-life subjects without scripted dialogue. The work 'Man with a Movie Camera' showcased innovative cinematic techniques such as non-linear editing and the use of multiple exposures. This person promoted the concept of Kinoki, asserting that the camera uniquely captures reality in a way that the human eye cannot.

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André Masson

Painter associated with Surrealism movement
Born
January 4th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1987 37 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1896, a painter and illustrator emerged as a significant figure in the Surrealism movement. Worked in various media, including painting, drawing, and collage. Participated in the 'Exposition Internationale du Surréalisme' in Paris in 1938. His artwork often explored themes of primal instincts and dreams, showcasing a distinct style characterized by dynamic lines and vibrant colors. Masson’s contributions to the field of art extended to literature as well, providing illustrations for various authors. Spent considerable time in the United States during World War II, where he developed connections with American artists and contributed to the growth of Surrealism in the country.

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Everett Dirksen

American politician & Senate Minority Leader
Born
January 4th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1969 55 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Illinois from 1959 to 1969. Played a significant role in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Served as Senate Minority Leader from 1959 until 1969, shaping key legislative strategies during this period. Promoted a conservative agenda and was instrumental in fostering bipartisan cooperation on major national issues.

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Jaromír Weinberger

Composer known for 'Schwanda the Bagpiper'
Born
January 8th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
1967 58 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1896, a composer and academic contributed significantly to music in both Europe and the United States. Early career involved studies in Prague and later in the United States. Achieved acclaim with the opera 'Schwanda the Bagpiper', which premiered in 1927 and gained popularity internationally. Throughout life, taught music theory and composition, influencing future generations of musicians. His works often reflected a blend of Czech folk traditions and contemporary styles, earning a place in the operatic repertoire. Continued to compose music until the later years of life, producing numerous orchestral and instrumental pieces.

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Dinkar G. Kelkar

Indian art collector and curator
Born
January 10th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1990 34 years ago — 94 years old

Contributed significantly to the promotion of Indian art through collection and curation. Focused on artwork that represents India's cultural heritage, emphasizing the importance of preserving traditional art forms. Established a prominent art museum that houses a vast collection of Indian artifacts and paintings. Actively engaged in art advocacy and played a vital role in encouraging contemporary artists in India.

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Uberto De Morpurgo

Italian tennis player and Olympic medalist
Born
January 12th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 65 years old

Competed in tennis at the international level during the early 20th century. Participated in the 1920 Antwerp Olympics, securing a bronze medal in men's doubles alongside partner Giovanni Cucelli. Established a prominent presence in European tennis tournaments of the era, garnering respect for performance and skills on the court.

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David Wechsler

Psychologist and author of IQ tests
Born
January 12th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
1981 44 years ago — 85 years old

Born in Romania and later emigrated to the United States, a psychologist and author developed a series of intelligence tests, significantly contributing to the field of psychometrics. The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) became widely used assessments of cognitive ability. These tests provided a better understanding of intellectual functioning and were instrumental in educational and clinical settings. The methodologies and theories proposed helped shape modern psychology and testing practices.

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John Dos Passos

Novelist and playwright of U.S.A.
Born
January 14th, 1896 129 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1970 54 years ago — 74 years old

An American novelist, poet, and playwright, contributed significantly to modern American literature. Wrote the U.S.A. trilogy, which includes the notable works The 42nd Parallel, 1919, and The Big Money. His writings often explored social and political themes and incorporated innovative narrative techniques. In addition to fiction, created works for the stage and engaged in social activism throughout his career.

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