What Happened This Year 1899

Born in 1899

Goodman Ace

American comedian and radio writer
Born
1899 127 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1982 44 years ago — 83 years old

A significant figure in early American comedy, contributed to radio and television. Gained prominence as a writer and performer on various programs. Co-created the radio program 'The Goodman Ace Show,' which showcased comedic sketches and humor. Later transitioned to television and continued to influence the comedic landscape.

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Jean Goldkette

Pianist and bandleader, jazz innovator
Born
1899 127 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1962 64 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent pianist and bandleader, contributed significantly to the jazz genre in the early 20th century. Led the Jean Goldkette Orchestra, which gained recognition for its orchestral arrangements and performances. Performed at various prestigious venues and collaborated with notable musicians of the era. Moved from France to the United States, where involvement in the jazz scene expanded. His orchestra featured many future jazz stars and played a crucial role in the evolution of big band jazz.

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Billy Cotton

English bandleader and drummer
Born
1899 127 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1969 57 years ago — 70 years old

An English singer, drummer, and bandleader, achieved prominence in the mid-20th century. Established a significant career in music, leading the Billy Cotton Band. Gained popularity through radio and television appearances, especially during the 1940s and 1950s. Known for a lively stage presence and engaging performances, contributing to the British dance band scene. Also hosted the BBC show 'Down Your Way', which showcased various aspects of British culture and local history.

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Jocko Conlan

Baseball umpire with Hall of Fame induction
Born
1899 127 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1989 36 years ago — 90 years old

Played as a professional baseball player in the 1930s before transitioning to umpiring in Major League Baseball. Officiated in several World Series and All-Star Games throughout a lengthy career as an umpire. His work as an umpire was recognized with induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1974.

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Madge Blake

American actress in television and film
Born
1899 127 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1969 57 years ago — 70 years old

An American actress, she gained recognition for performances in television and film. Blake portrayed Aunt Harriet in the television series 'Batman' (1966-1968), which became a cultural phenomenon during its runtime. In addition to her work on 'Batman', she appeared in various movies and television shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s, contributing to a significant body of work in the entertainment industry. Her roles often showcased her comedic talent and endearing presence, making her a beloved figure among audiences during her career.

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Burt Munro

Motorcycle racer and record holder
Born
1899 127 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1978 48 years ago — 79 years old

A motorcycle racer from New Zealand achieved significant recognition for setting land speed records. Remarkably, the individual set a record of 183.586 mph at Bonneville Salt Flats in 1967 on a modified 1920 Indian motorcycle. This accomplishment remained unbeaten in its class for decades. The effort to push the limits of speed involved considerable innovation and engineering on the motorcycle to enhance performance. The story of this racer gained further attention with the release of the film 'The World's Fastest Indian'.

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Loukas Panourgias

Greek footballer and lawyer
Born
1899 127 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1981 45 years ago — 82 years old

A footballer from Greece, played primarily as a forward. Competed in the Greek Super League and represented several clubs throughout his career. Transitioned into a successful legal career after retiring from football, contributing to the field of law in Greece. Panourgias also had a significant presence in the regional football scene, impacting local clubs and associations.

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Frances Yates

Historian with focus on Renaissance thought
Born
1899 127 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1981 44 years ago — 82 years old

Contributions to the study of Renaissance philosophy and the history of ideas occurred through extensive writings. Focus on the works of Giordano Bruno and the significance of memory techniques marked scholarly achievements. Published seminal texts including 'The Art of Memory' in 1966, which analyzed the relationship between memory, imagination, and the arts during the Renaissance. Explored metaphysical concepts and their influence on culture and personal thought within the context of early modern Europe.

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Phyllis Haver

American actress in silent films
Born
1899 127 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1960 65 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent actress during the silent film era, contributions include performances in numerous films, notably 'Chicago' (1927) and 'The Show of Shows' (1929). Haver transitioned to sound films, appearing in 'The Marriage Playground' (1929). Later in her career, she became involved in production and direction, shaping several film projects.

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