What Happened This Year 1899

Born in 1899

Pierre Victor Auger

French physicist and academic
Born
May 14th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
December 25th, 1993 31 years ago — 94 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of particle physics. Conducted research on cosmic rays and invented the Auger effect, a phenomenon observed when an atom in an excited state undergoes a transition, releasing energy and resulting in the emission of a secondary electron. Worked with various scientific teams, contributing to advancements in understanding particle interactions. Held academic positions, lecturing and guiding future physicists on the intricacies of quantum mechanics and radiation.

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Charlotte Auerbach

Scottish geneticist and zoologist
Born
May 14th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1994 30 years ago — 94 years old

Born in Germany, later settled in Scotland as a prominent geneticist and zoologist. Conducted foundational research on the mutagenic effects of chemical agents on genes, particularly in fruit flies. Contributed to the understanding of genetic mutations and their implications for heredity. Worked closely with significant figures in genetics and participated in the establishment of the field within Scotland. Authored numerous research papers and became a noted voice in discussions about genetics and ethical considerations.

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Earle Combs

Baseball player and coach for the Yankees
Born
May 14th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1976 49 years ago — 77 years old

An American baseball player and coach, recognized for a significant playing career in Major League Baseball. Primarily played center field for the New York Yankees from 1924 to 1935. Displayed exceptional batting skills and contributed to the Yankees' victories in the late 1920s and early 1930s. Transitioned into coaching after retiring as a player, mentoring future generations of baseball talent.

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Jean Étienne Valluy

French general and military leader
Born
May 15th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1899, a general in the French Army, served with distinction during World War II. Commanded the 2nd Armored Division, which played a key role in the liberation of France. Participated in the Battle of Normandy and later led forces in the liberation of Paris. Continued a military career after the war, holding various commands and contributing to France's military strategy during the Cold War.

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Carmen de Icaza

Spanish writer and novelist
Born
May 17th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1979 46 years ago — 80 years old

Born in Spain in 1899, this writer became prominent in the mid-20th century. She contributed significantly to Spanish literature, particularly through her novels which explored themes of love and human emotion. One of the most notable works is 'El bosque de los sueños', which garnered critical acclaim and reflected the social conditions of the time. Throughout her career, she wrote numerous novels and essays that resonated with readers, showcasing her literary talent and her ability to capture the complexities of life.

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Lothar Rădăceanu

Journalist and politician from Romania
Born
May 19th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 56 years old

A Romanian journalist, linguist, and politician, contributed significantly to the fields of journalism and linguistics. Actively participated in political discourse and was involved in various governmental functions. His work in journalism included editing renowned publications and engaging in political commentary. Rădăceanu's insights on language and culture shaped public perception in Romania during a critical historical period. He also held positions that connected his linguistic expertise with political responsibilities throughout his career.

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Aleksandr Deyneka

Russian painter and sculptor, wartime art
Born
May 20th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
June 12th, 1969 55 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1899, this artist contributed significantly to Soviet art. Deyneka's career spanned various forms of painting and sculpture, focusing on themes of labor and heroism. His work during World War II included propaganda art that celebrated the Soviet military effort. He was associated with the artistic movement known as Socialist Realism, which aimed to depict the ideals of communism and promote Soviet values. Deyneka taught at various institutions and participated in numerous exhibitions throughout his career, leaving a lasting legacy in Russian visual arts.

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John Marshall Harlan II

American lawyer and Supreme Court Justice
Born
May 20th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1971 53 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent American lawyer and jurist, served as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1955 to 1971. Harlan's tenure was marked by significant contributions to civil rights and civil liberties. Harlan advocated for the rights of individuals in various landmark cases, focusing on issues such as free speech and equal protection under the law. He participated in interpreting the Fourteenth Amendment and emphasized the importance of due process. His perspectives often reflected a commitment to the principle of judicial restraint and originalism.

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Jeralean Talley

Super-centenarian
Born
May 23rd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
2015 10 years ago — 116 years old

Born on May 23, 1899, reached the age of 116 years, becoming one of the oldest verified living people in the world. Spent much of life in Michigan and became a super-centenarian recognized for longevity. Celebrated birthdays with family and community recognition throughout later years. Involved in various community activities and remained active in social events until advancing age limited participation.

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