What Happened This Year 1899

Born in 1899

Gussie Busch

American businessman and brewery executive
Born
March 28th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1989 35 years ago — 90 years old

An American businessman, significant in the brewing industry. Led Anheuser-Busch, transforming it into one of the largest brewing companies in the world. Under creative marketing strategies, popularized brands such as Budweiser. Expanded the company’s reach through strategic acquisitions and innovations in brewing technology. Served in the U.S. Army during World War I before rejoining the family business. Advocated for the establishment of the St. Louis Brewers' Festival, fostering community relations.

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Buck Shaw

American football coach and player
Born
March 28th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1977 48 years ago — 78 years old

Played college football at the University of San Francisco, where he also began coaching. Served as head coach for the University of San Francisco and later at Santa Clara University, leading both teams to competitive seasons. Achieved success in the coaching realm, especially during the early days of collegiate football. Developed strategies that contributed to the evolution of the game during mid-20th century.

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Lavrentiy Beria

Georgian-Russian general and politician
Born
March 29th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1953 71 years ago — 54 years old

Beria served as a prominent general and politician in the Soviet Union, rising to significant power during the leadership of Joseph Stalin. He was appointed as the head of the Soviet secret police, overseeing state security and intelligence operations. His influence expanded during and after World War II, managing various security apparatuses and contributing to the Soviet atomic bomb project. Following Stalin's death in 1953, Beria briefly held a position of power but was arrested and executed within months during a political power struggle.

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Sharadindu Bandyopadhyay

Indian author and playwright, Bengali literature
Born
March 30th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1970 55 years ago — 71 years old

An influential figure in Bengali literature, this individual contributed significantly to the genres of detective fiction and fantasy. As a prolific author, produced numerous works that captivated readers, including the beloved creation Byomkesh Bakshi, a fictional detective who solved intricate mysteries. Crafted several plays that explored various themes, enriching the theatrical landscape of Bengal. The writer's adaptability in various literary formats showcased talent across novels, short stories, and screenplays, reflecting the cultural milieu of the time.

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Hillel Oppenheimer

Botanist and academic focused on plant science
Born
April 4th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 72 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of botany, specializing in plant taxonomy and ecology. Worked at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, conducting research that advanced knowledge in various areas of plant science. Published numerous papers and served as a mentor to students in the botanical sciences. Engaged in conservation efforts for native plant species in Israel and contributed to educational programs promoting botanical knowledge.

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Alfred Blalock

Surgeon recognized for heart surgery advancements
Born
April 5th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1964 61 years ago — 65 years old

An American surgeon and academic contributed significantly to the field of surgery. Focused on cardiac surgery, developed the Blalock-Taussig shunt, a pioneering surgical procedure to treat congenital heart defects. Served as chief of surgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital, where major surgical techniques were refined. Published numerous articles that furthered medical knowledge in surgical practices.

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Robert Casadesus

French pianist and composer
Born
April 7th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
September 19th, 1972 52 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent pianist and composer, this individual excelled in classical music, particularly in the works of French composers. His performances gained acclaim for their technical precision and lyrical beauty. This individual collaborated with many orchestras and renowned conductors throughout his career. He also composed several works that contribute to the piano repertoire, gaining recognition as both a performer and a composer. A significant presence in concert halls, this individual left a lasting legacy in the world of classical music.

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Percy Lavon Julian

Chemist and pioneer in medicinal chemistry
Born
April 11th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1975 49 years ago — 76 years old

This chemist made significant contributions to the field of medicinal chemistry. A trailblazer for African Americans in science, developed methods for synthesizing important medicinal compounds. Achieved success in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the production of steroids like cortisone and the development of various treatments for glaucoma and inflammation. Held several academic and corporate positions, promoting advancements in chemistry and education.

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Harold Osborn

American high jumper and decathlete
Born
April 13th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1975 49 years ago — 75 years old

Competed in track and field events, specializing in high jump and decathlon. Achieved significant success in the 1920s, winning multiple national titles. Secured a gold medal in the high jump at the 1924 Paris Olympics, setting an Olympic record with a jump of 2.03 meters. Dominated collegiate competitions, representing the University of Michigan.

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