What Happened This Year 1899

Born in 1899

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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Carlos Chávez

Mexican composer and conductor
Born
June 13th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1978 46 years ago — 79 years old

A significant figure in 20th-century music, contributed to the development of Mexican classical music. Founded the Mexican Symphonic Orchestra in 1928 and served as its conductor. Composed several influential works such as the ballet 'La mulata de Córdoba' and 'Sinfonía India'. Engaged in music education and wrote extensively on music and culture.

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Helen Traubel

Operatic soprano and concert performer
Born
June 16th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1972 52 years ago — 73 years old

An American operatic soprano, gained prominence in the mid-20th century. Traubel made her debut with the New York City Opera in 1944 and later became a principal artist with the Metropolitan Opera. Concert performances spanned popular venues, contributing to a widespread appreciation for her vocal abilities. Traubel also engaged in broadcasting, appearing on television and radio, enhancing the accessibility of opera to wider audiences. Renowned for her powerful voice and dramatic interpretations, she performed leading roles in operas by composers such as Wagner and Puccini, cementing her place in the opera world.

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Jean Moulin

French Resistance leader during WWII
Born
June 20th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1943 81 years ago — 44 years old

Played a pivotal role in the French Resistance during World War II. Moulin coordinated various Resistance groups to unify efforts against the Nazi occupation. Captured by the Gestapo, he endured severe torture and refused to betray his comrades. His bravery inspired many and solidified his legacy as a symbol of resistance against tyranny.

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Pavel Haas

Czech composer renowned for symphonic works
Born
June 21st, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 45 years old

A Czech composer contributed significantly to the 20th-century classical music landscape. Studied under prominent figures such as Leoš Janáček, developing a unique style that blended traditional folk influences with modernist elements. Best recognized for compositions like the 'Study for Strings' and the 'Holocaust Cantata.' Involved in the Czech music community, influencing both his contemporaries and future generations. Unfortunately, his life was cut short during World War II, which limited the recognition of his works during his lifetime. Despite this, contributions to chamber music and symphonic forms remain influential in the classical repertoire.

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Richard Gurley Drew

Engineer, inventor of masking tape
Born
June 22nd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 81 years old

An American engineer, this individual invented masking tape while working for 3M in the 1920s. The invention was designed to allow for better paint lines during painting and eventually led to the development of various adhesive products. The innovative product gained widespread use in homes, industries, and automotive applications. The invention's impact on both the professional painting and DIY markets was significant, as it provided a solution for cleaner paint application and helped streamline the painting process.

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Michał Kalecki

Economist known for business cycle theory
Born
June 22nd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 71 years old

An economist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of economic cycles and the role of effective demand. Developed the Kalecki equation, a model that describes the relationship between investment, output, and employment. Explored the interactions between economic policies and business cycles, influencing economic thought in the 20th century. Worked at various universities and institutions, leaving a lasting legacy in economic theory and policy analysis.

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Amédée Gordini

French race car driver and manufacturer
Born
June 23rd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1979 45 years ago — 79 years old

Born in Italy, transitioned to France where a career in racing began. Developed a passion for racing and founded a sports car manufacturing company. Competed in events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, achieving notable success. Advocated for automobile innovation, contributing to the development of performance vehicles that gained recognition in motorsport.

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Juan Trippe

Airline Executive, founded Pan Am
Born
June 27th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1981 43 years ago — 81 years old

An influential businessman established Pan American World Airways, shaping the commercial aviation industry. Under leadership, Pan Am initiated transcontinental flights and was the first airline to operate a scheduled passenger service across the Atlantic Ocean in 1939. The airline became a landmark in international travel, pioneering innovations like jet service and on-board luxury. Trippe played a critical role in promoting air travel and expanding the global aviation network.

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