What Happened This Year 1898

Born in 1898

Gus Sonnenberg

Football player and professional wrestler
Born
March 6th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 46 years old

Played professional American football in the early 20th century, being a key player for the Portsmouth Spartans. Gained recognition as a professional wrestler, winning the World Heavyweight Championship in 1925. Transitioned from football to wrestling, achieving success within both sports during a time when few athletes crossed over between these two athletic disciplines.

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Dorothy Gish

American actress in silent films
Born
March 11th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1968 56 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent figure in early cinema, this individual gained fame during the silent film era. Collaborated extensively with D.W. Griffith and starred in significant films such as 'The Birth of a Nation' and 'Intolerance.' Transitioned successfully to talkies, maintaining a notable career in film and stage. Contributed to the theater as well, starring in various productions.

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Luitpold Steidle

German army officer and politician
Born
March 12th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 86 years old

Served as a German army officer and later entered politics. Held the rank of General during World War II, leading forces in significant campaigns. Post-war, engaged in politics as a member of the German Bundestag, representing the interests of his constituents and participating in legislative processes. Contributed to military strategy and operations during critical periods in German history.

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Tian Han

Chinese playwright and lyricist
Born
March 12th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1898, a significant figure in modern Chinese theatre, contributing to the establishment of the Chinese national drama. Worked extensively in the development of the Beijing opera and wrote numerous plays that focused on social issues. Also crafted lyrics for revolutionary songs, including 'March of the Volunteers', which became the national anthem of the People's Republic of China. His artistic expressions reflected a blend of traditional Chinese and modern Western elements.

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Henry Hathaway

American film director and producer
Born
March 13th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1985 40 years ago — 86 years old

Directed numerous films spanning various genres throughout a prolific career. Best remembered for work in film noir, particularly 'Kiss of Death' and 'The Dark Corner.' Also directed the well-received adventure film 'True Grit,' which showcased a strong performance by John Wayne. Contributed to both film and television, cementing a legacy as a prominent figure in Hollywood during the mid-20th century.

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Reginald Marsh

Painter and illustrator of city life
Born
March 14th, 1898 127 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 1954 70 years ago — 56 years old

This individual was a prominent French-American painter and illustrator, actively exploring urban scenes that captured the vibrancy of 20th-century American life. Studied at the Art Students League in New York and gained recognition for works depicting the circus and New York City's social milieu. Worked with major publications, including The New Yorker, contributing illustrations that showcased cultural and artistic themes of the time. Exhibited at various galleries and institutions, becoming associated with the Ashcan School movement, which emphasized realistic portrayals of urban environments. Developed a unique style that combined elements of realism and caricature, cementing a distinct place in American art history.

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Louis Adamic

Author and translator of multicultural works
Born
March 23rd, 1898 126 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 53 years old

Born in Slovenia and later immigrating to the United States, this individual became a prominent figure in literature and politics. His writings focused on immigrant experiences, cultural diversity, and social issues. He authored several books, including 'My America: A Narrative History' and 'The Native's Return.' In addition to his literary contributions, he engaged in political discourse, advocating for social justice and civil rights. He was also an influential translator, bringing Slovene literature to American audiences, thereby enhancing cross-cultural understanding.

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Madeleine de Bourbon-Busset

Duchess of Parma and writer
Born
March 23rd, 1898 126 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1984 40 years ago — 86 years old

Born into the Bourbon family, held the title of Duchess of Parma. Contributed to literature and wrote several works reflecting on her noble heritage and family history. Engaged in activities that preserved her family's legacy and was involved in various cultural initiatives. Influenced the resurgence of interest in historical narratives related to French nobility.

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Charles Shadwell

English conductor and bandleader
Born
March 26th, 1898 126 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1979 45 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1898, an English conductor and bandleader contributed significantly to the music scene throughout the 20th century. Shadwell conducted various prestigious orchestras and was known for innovative programming and community engagement in music. He led performances that featured classical works and contemporary compositions, bridging the gap between traditional and modern music. His leadership in the music community fostered the development of orchestral programs and educational outreach, making music accessible to a broader audience.

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