What Happened This Year 1898

Born in 1898

Totò

Italian actor and comedian in film
Born
February 15th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1967 57 years ago — 69 years old

An Italian actor, singer, and screenwriter originated in Naples. Renowned for comic roles, particularly in film and theater. Gained popularity through classic films, showcasing a unique talent in comedy and performance. Worked extensively in Italian cinema throughout the 20th century, establishing a significant cultural impact. Created memorable characters in films, often exhibiting a blend of humor and pathos. Achieved acclaim both for roles in the theater and for contributions to screenwriting.

Continue Reading

Luis Muñoz Marín

Politician and first Governor of Puerto Rico
Born
February 18th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1980 44 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent political figure in Puerto Rico, served as the first Governor from 1949 to 1965. Played a significant role in establishing Puerto Rico's political status and advocating for its economic development. Contributed to the creation of Operation Bootstrap, aimed at industrializing the island. Engaged in poetry and wrote extensively on political and social issues, making lasting contributions to the cultural landscape of Puerto Rico.

Continue Reading

Kurt Tank

German pilot and aircraft engineer
Born
February 24th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1983 42 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1898, Tank became a prominent airplane designer and test pilot. He was involved in the development of several aircraft during the 1930s and 1940s. Tank led the design team for the Focke-Wulf Fw 190, a notable fighter aircraft used extensively during World War II. After the war, he continued his engineering career in Argentina, contributing to the development of the country’s aviation industry.

Continue Reading

William Astbury

Physicist and molecular biologist
Born
February 25th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1961 64 years ago — 63 years old

A physicist and molecular biologist contributed significantly to the understanding of proteins. Pioneered the use of X-ray diffraction techniques to study the structures of biological macromolecules. The research provided insights into the molecular structure of fibers, particularly collagen and keratin. Served as a professor at the University of Leeds, where extensive studies on the molecular configuration of biological substances were conducted.

Continue Reading

Zeki Rıza Sporel

Turkish footballer and top goal scorer
Born
February 28th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1969 55 years ago — 71 years old

Started playing professional football in the early 1920s. Primarily played as a forward for Beşiktaş JK and the Turkish national team. Achieved significant recognition as one of the top goal scorers in the history of Turkish football. Represented Turkey in international competitions, contributing to the development of the sport in the country. His career included playing in the first official Turkish championship.

Continue Reading

Emil Artin

Mathematician known for algebraic number theory
Born
March 3rd, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1962 63 years ago — 64 years old

Born in Austria in 1898, this mathematician made significant contributions to algebraic number theory, particularly in the theory of ideals. Artin developed the Artin reciprocity law, a fundamental result in algebraic number theory which generalizes the classical reciprocity laws of quadratic fields. After fleeing Europe during World War II, he settled in the United States, where he continued his academic career and influences at institutions such as Princeton University. His work influenced modern mathematics and paved the way for future developments in number theory and algebra.

Continue Reading

Georges Dumézil

French philologist and academic
Born
March 4th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1986 39 years ago — 88 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of philology and comparative mythology. Developed the theory of the tripartition of societies, which influenced the study of Indo-European cultures. Served as a professor at the Collège de France and published extensively on ancient texts and mythologies. His analysis of the social structures of ancient peoples shaped the understanding of their cultures and religious practices.

Continue Reading

Hans Krebs

German general during World War II
Born
March 4th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 47 years old

Born in Germany in 1898, served as a prominent general in the German army during World War II. Participated in various strategic military operations and was involved in significant battles on the Eastern Front. Played a crucial role in the defense of Germany in its later years, contributing to the planning and execution of military strategies. Held a position in the German High Command, gaining attention for his tactical decisions. Captured by Soviet forces in 1945, experienced trials reflecting the complexities of military leadership during wartime.

Continue Reading

Zhou Enlai

Chinese politician and 1st Premier
Born
March 5th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1976 49 years ago — 77 years old

Served as the first Premier of the People's Republic of China from 1949 until death in 1976. Played a crucial role in foreign relations, including establishing diplomatic ties with the United States. Participated in the Chinese Communist Party's rise to power and integrated economic reforms that modernized China's economy.

Continue Reading