What Happened This Year 1899

Born in 1899

Edwin Way Teale

Environmentalist and nature photographer
Born
June 2nd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1980 44 years ago — 81 years old

An environmentalist and photographer documented nature extensively through written works and photographs. Focused on the American landscape, contributed to the field of nature writing and photography with a distinct style that combined observation and artistry. Authored several books, including 'A Naturalist Buys an Old Farm', which illustrated the beauty of flora and fauna. Dedicated work fostered greater appreciation for the natural world and its conservation.

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Georg von Békésy

Biophysicist, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
June 3rd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1972 52 years ago — 73 years old

A Hungarian-American biophysicist contributed to the understanding of sound perception through research on the inner ear. Developed the traveling wave theory of the cochlea, which explained how sound waves propagate and are processed in the auditory system. Held a position at Harvard University and contributed significantly to the field of auditory physiology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1961 for discoveries concerning the physical properties of the cochlea.

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Theippan Maung Wa

Burmese writer and poet
Born
June 5th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 43 years old

A prominent figure in Burmese literature, contributed significantly to the development of modern poetry and prose. Active during the early 20th century, focused on themes of national identity and cultural heritage. Established a distinctive voice that combined traditional Burmese literary forms with modern styles. Involved in various literary movements and served as an influence for upcoming writers in the country.

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Otis Barton

Engineer and bathysphere designer
Born
June 5th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1992 33 years ago — 93 years old

An engineer and inventor, created the bathysphere, an early submersible used for deep-sea exploration. Collaborated with naturalist William Beebe in 1930, achieving a record depth of 3,028 feet in the Atlantic Ocean. Contributed to advances in marine science and underwater technology. Also involved in acting, appearing in several films during the 1930s, showcasing a multifaceted career in engineering and entertainment.

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Elizabeth Bowen

Anglo-Irish author and novelist
Born
June 7th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1973 52 years ago — 73 years old

An influential Anglo-Irish author, contributed significantly to 20th-century literature through novels, short stories, and essays. Writings often explored themes of personal and political conflict, reflecting the complexities of life in Ireland during tumultuous times. Works included 'The Last September' and 'The Heat of the Day', which examined emotional and social dynamics within the backdrop of the Irish War of Independence and World War II. Bowen's literary style combined vivid imagery with psychological depth, establishing a unique voice in modern literature.

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Ernst-Robert Grawitz

German physician and medical authority
Born
June 8th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1945 79 years ago — 45 years old

Graduated from medical school and became a prominent figure in medicine. Served as a leader in the German medical establishment during the mid-20th century. Worked in various capacities to promote medical and scientific research and practices. Contributed to the understanding of cancer treatment and surgery. Authored multiple publications on health and medicine.

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Stanisław Czaykowski

Polish racing driver with notable achievements
Born
June 10th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1933 91 years ago — 34 years old

A prominent Polish racing driver participated in the Mille Miglia and gained recognition in motorsport during the early 20th century. He drove for various teams, showcasing driving talent and speed in a demanding racing environment. His racing career spanned several years during a time when motorsport was evolving rapidly. His contributions to the sport include competitive participation in prestigious international events, evolving the profile of Polish racing drivers in global competitions. His legacy in Polish motorsport continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts.

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Yasunari Kawabata

Japanese novelist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
June 11th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1972 52 years ago — 72 years old

A celebrated novelist and short story writer, received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1968 for contributions to literature that evoked the beauty of Japanese culture. Early works included 'Snow Country,' which depicted the emotional desolation of a love affair in a remote hot spring town, and 'The Sound of the Mountain,' exploring family dynamics and human experience. Kawabata's narrative style combined graceful language with deep psychological insight, often reflecting themes of nature and existential contemplation.

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Fritz Albert Lipmann

Nobel Prize-winning biochemist
Born
June 12th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
July 24th, 1986 38 years ago — 87 years old

Significant contributions were made to the understanding of energy transfer in biological systems. Developed the concept of coenzymes and discovered adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as a major energy carrier in cells. Held academic positions at renowned institutions, including Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1953 for research on the role of ATP in cellular metabolism.

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