What Happened This Year 1899

Born in 1899

Lonnie Johnson

American singer-songwriter and guitarist
Born
February 8th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 71 years old

An influential figure in the development of blues and jazz music. Johnson gained prominence in the 1920s and 1930s, blending blues with jazz and showcasing an exceptional technique on the guitar. Collaborated with notable artists and played a pivotal role in the evolution of guitar playing in popular music. Johnson's recordings were significant in shaping the sound of early rhythm and blues.

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Rolf Stenersen

Norwegian businessman and philanthropist
Born
February 13th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1978 46 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent businessman, contributions spanned multiple industries within Norway. Played a significant role in the development of various enterprises and was involved in philanthropic efforts. Established a foundation that supported education and cultural initiatives. Actively participated in community development projects, enhancing the economic landscape in his region.

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Gale Sondergaard

Danish-American actress, Oscar winner
Born
February 15th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1985 39 years ago — 86 years old

An actress noted for her work in film and theater, this individual gained prominence in the early 20th century. She earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for the role in 'Anthony Adverse' (1936). Throughout her career, she portrayed a range of characters across different genres, often cast in roles that highlighted her distinctive style. She was one of the first actresses to receive an Academy Award, paving the way for future generations in the industry. Additionally, she featured in several notable productions on Broadway, showcasing her talents beyond the silver screen.

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Georges Auric

French composer of film scores
Born
February 15th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1983 41 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent composer in the 20th century, created scores for several classic films. Collaborated with directors such as Jean Cocteau and worked on notable projects including 'Beauty and the Beast' and 'The Blood of a Poet'. Also composed classical works and music for ballets, contributing significantly to the development of music in cinema and theater. His work reflects a blend of traditional and modern styles, earning recognition in both the film industry and concert halls.

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Jibanananda Das

Bengali poet and author with significant works
Born
February 17th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1954 70 years ago — 55 years old

Contributed to Bengali literature through poetry and prose. Born on February 17, 1899, in Barisal, British India, produced various works that explored themes of nature, love, and the human condition. Gained prominence posthumously, with several collections published. His writing style blended modernist elements with traditional Bengali forms. Produced some of the most celebrated poems in Bengali literature.

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Lucio Fontana

Painter and sculptor of Spatialism
Born
February 19th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1968 57 years ago — 69 years old

Argentinian-Italian painter and sculptor developed the artistic movement known as Spatialism, which emphasized the conceptual dimensions of art beyond traditional canvases. Explored the relationship between art and space, often through iconic slashed paintings and three-dimensional works. Contributed significantly to contemporary art in the mid-20th century by founding the Zero Group. Engaged with ideas of time and space in a way that influenced future art practices.

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Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney

American businessman and philanthropist
Born
February 20th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1992 32 years ago — 93 years old

Businessman and philanthropist contributed to various industries, particularly in media and transportation. Established the Whitney Communications Corporation. Involved in the development of the New York Central Railroad. Founded several companies in the film industry, supporting artistic ventures. Served as a board member of the Metropolitan Opera Association and funded various philanthropic initiatives, especially in arts and education.

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George O'Hara

American actor and screenwriter
Born
February 22nd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1966 58 years ago — 67 years old

An American actor and screenwriter, notable work includes leading roles in films during the 1920s and 1930s. Achievements include contributions to silent films and early sound cinema. O'Hara's screen presence captured the attention of audiences, becoming a well-recognized figure in Hollywood. His career spanned various genres and he wrote scripts for several productions, showcasing versatility in the film industry.

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Norman Taurog

Film director and screenwriter
Born
February 23rd, 1899 126 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1981 43 years ago — 82 years old

Directed numerous films during a prolific career, contributing to the entertainment industry for over five decades. Taurog's work reflects a range of genres, with significant involvement in musicals and comedies. Directed the Elvis Presley films 'Jailhouse Rock' and 'Blue Hawaii', which became iconic in the rock and roll era. Served as a director for multiple successful films which achieved commercial success.

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