What Happened This Year 1899

Born in 1899

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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Osman Achmatowicz

Polish chemist and educator
Born
April 16th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1988 36 years ago — 89 years old

Born in 1899, a Polish chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of organic chemistry. Achmatowicz specialized in the study of natural compounds and their synthesis, particularly focusing on terpenes and resins. His career included influential teaching positions at various universities, where he cultivated future generations of chemists. Achmatowicz published numerous research papers that advanced knowledge in organic chemistry. In recognition of his scholarly work, several scientific accolades were awarded throughout his career.

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Aleksander Klumberg

Decathlete and Athletic Coach
Born
April 17th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 59 years old

An Estonian decathlete and coach, participated in the 1924 Summer Olympics representing Estonia in the decathlon. After his athletic career, turned to coaching and contributed to the development of athletics in Estonia. Played a key role in training athletes and advancing the sport within the region. His influence extended through various coaches and athletes who followed his methodologies in training.

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George O'Brien

American actor in silent films
Born
April 19th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1985 39 years ago — 86 years old

An American actor played leading roles in silent films and early talkies. Gained prominence in the 1920s and 1930s, particularly in Westerns. Notable films include 'The Iron Horse' and 'Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans', the latter winning an Academy Award for Best Unique and Artistic Picture. Transitioned to sound films successfully, showcasing versatility in various genres.

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Alan Arnett McLeod

Canadian lieutenant, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
April 20th, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 19 years old

Served as a pilot in the Royal Flying Corps during World War I. Demonstrated bravery in action, notably during a mission over enemy lines where attacked by German aircraft. Successfully engaged and defeated multiple enemy fighters despite being heavily outnumbered. Awarded the Victoria Cross for gallantry, becoming one of the youngest recipients of this honor during the war.

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Randall Thompson

Composer and academic, wrote The Peaceable Kingdom
Born
April 21st, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1984 41 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1899, this American composer and academic contributed significantly to 20th-century music. The individual served as a professor at both Harvard University and the Curtis Institute of Music, impacting music education. The work 'The Peaceable Kingdom', composed in 1944, showcased a blend of choral and orchestral music, drawing inspiration from Edward Hicks' paintings. This piece became one of the most celebrated works, demonstrating a strong sense of Americana.

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Vladimir Nabokov

Novelist and literary critic, author of Lolita
Born
April 22nd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1977 47 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Russia, a prolific novelist and literary critic contributed significantly to 20th-century literature. Immigrated to the United States, where many major works were completed. Explored themes of obsession, memory, and the relationship between reality and art. Utilized a distinctive style characterized by wordplay, intricate plots, and vivid imagery. Renowned for fluency in both English and Russian, produced works that bridged cultural boundaries. Taught literature at several universities and engaged in entomology as a passionate hobby.

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Minoru Shirota

Microbiologist who invented Yakult
Born
April 23rd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
1982 43 years ago — 83 years old

A Japanese physician and microbiologist focused on gut health. Developed the probiotic drink Yakult, utilizing specific strains of Lactobacillus casei. Established Shirota's research dedicated to the benefits of probiotics on human health. Contributed to the scientific understanding of beneficial bacteria and their role in digestion and immunity.

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Bertil Ohlin

Economist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
April 23rd, 1899 125 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1979 45 years ago — 80 years old

A Swedish economist and politician contributed significantly to economic theory, particularly the Heckscher-Ohlin model of international trade. This theory explained how countries trade based on their factor endowments. Ohlin served as a Professor of International Economics at the Stockholm School of Economics. In 1977, he was awarded the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences alongside Paul Samuelson for their work in the field. Ohlin also engaged in politics, serving as a member of the Swedish parliament and holding the position of Minister of Trade. His academic career included teaching and publishing influential works on economic policy.

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