What Happened This Year 1898

Born in 1898

Alla Tarasova

Russian ballerina and choreographer
Born
1898 127 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1973 51 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent ballerina, gained renown for performances in classical ballet during the early 20th century. Contributed significantly to the Bolshoi Theatre as a principal dancer and choreographer. Participated in various ballet productions that showcased technical skill and artistry. After a successful performing career, transitioned into choreography, influencing future generations of dancers.

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Ildebrando Antoniutti

Italian cardinal
Born
1898 127 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1974 50 years ago — 76 years old

Served as a prominent figure within the Catholic Church, holding the position of Cardinal. Contributed to the Second Vatican Council, which aimed to address relations between the Catholic Church and the modern world. Actively involved in ecclesiastical diplomacy and church governance, particularly in dealing with post-war European issues. Managed various archdioceses throughout Italy, promoting outreach and engagement with communities.

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Hal B. Wallis

Film Producer for Casablanca
Born
1898 127 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1986 38 years ago — 88 years old

An influential film producer, acclaimed for overseeing the production of several classic films during the mid-20th century. Played a key role in the making of 'Casablanca', which received multiple Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Established Wallis-Hazen Productions and later served as the head of production for Warner Bros. Worked on various successful projects, contributing to the film industry through both production and creative collaborations.

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Leó Szilárd

Physicist and engineer, Manhattan Project
Born
1898 127 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1964 60 years ago — 66 years old

A Hungarian-American physicist and engineer who contributed significantly to nuclear physics. Played a crucial role in the development of the atomic bomb as part of the Manhattan Project during World War II. Developed the concept of a nuclear chain reaction and patented the idea of a nuclear reactor. Later advocated for the peaceful use of atomic energy and warned against nuclear proliferation.

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Joris Ivens

Dutch documentary filmmaker and director
Born
1898 127 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1989 35 years ago — 91 years old

A prominent figure in documentary filmmaking, one of the early pioneers in the genre. Ivens crafted a unique style that blended political themes with avant-garde techniques. Produced several influential films, including 'The Spanish Earth,' which documented the Spanish Civil War. Worked extensively in both documentary production and innovative film direction, utilizing the medium to express political and social issues. His career spanned several decades, influencing generations of filmmakers.

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Jake Swirbul

Businessman and co-founder of Grumman
Born
1898 127 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1960 64 years ago — 62 years old

Co-founded Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation, which became a major player in military and commercial aviation. The company produced notable aircraft such as the F-14 Tomcat and the Lunar Module used in the Apollo program. Played a significant role in the company’s growth through innovative ideas and strategic planning, helping to shape the future of aerospace manufacturing.

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Antun Branko Šimić

Croatian poet and literary figure
Born
1898 127 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1925 99 years ago — 27 years old

Emerging as a prominent figure in early 20th-century literature, played a crucial role in modernist poetry in the region. Released several influential poetry collections, showcasing unique style and themes. Contributed to the literary movement through numerous essays and critiques. Worked closely with other contemporary poets and writers, promoting a rich literary discourse during his time.

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J. I. Rodale

Author and playwright of health literature
Born
1898 127 years ago
Died
June 8th, 1971 53 years ago — 73 years old

Rodale published extensively on health, nutrition, and organic gardening. Founded the Rodale Press in 1930, which became a major publisher of health and wellness literature. Authored the book 'The Pure Food Cook Book' that advocated for healthy eating and organic agriculture. Established Organic Gardening magazine, which educated readers about ecological gardening practices and sustainable food production.

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Liu Shaoqi

Chinese politician, 2nd Chairman
Born
1898 127 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1969 55 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the 2nd Chairman of the People's Republic of China from 1959 until 1966, playing a key role in the early governance of communist China. Prior to this, held various positions within the Communist Party, contributing to the establishment of the regime following the Chinese Civil War. Involved in implementing policies that shaped the country's economic and political landscape. Fell out of favor during the Cultural Revolution and was later persecuted, dying in 1969 under harsh conditions.

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