What Happened This Year 1914

People Who Died in 1914

Jules Lemaître

French playwright and literary critic
Born
April 27th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1914 110 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1853, a playwright and critic contributed significantly to French literature. Lemaître achieved prominence with works that highlighted dramatic art and theatrical reform. As a literary critic, he offered insights through various publications, enhancing the understanding of contemporary theater. His critiques greatly influenced the perception of playwrights during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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John Philip Holland

Irish engineer, designer of submarines
Born
1840 185 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1914 110 years ago — 74 years old

An engineer from Ireland, focused on submarine design. Developed the first successful submarine, HMS Holland 1, which was commissioned by the British Royal Navy. The design featured a torpedo-launching system, marking a significant advancement in naval warfare technology. Holland's innovations laid the groundwork for future submarine development and influenced naval engineering practices.

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Carl Theodor Schulz

German-Norwegian gardener and author
Born
1835 190 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1914 110 years ago — 79 years old

A gardener and writer, contributed significantly to horticulture in Norway and Germany. Authored several influential books on gardening techniques, emphasizing practical methods and plant cultivation. Played a crucial role in the development of botanical gardens, focusing on native species and promoting sustainable gardening practices. His work encompassed both scientific approaches and artistic expressions in garden design.

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Franz Xavier Wernz

Religious Leader, Superior General of Jesuits
Born
December 4th, 1844 180 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1914 110 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the 25th Superior General of the Society of Jesus from 1892 to 1906. Focused on the revitalization and expansion of Jesuit education and missions during a challenging period for the society. Played a crucial role in reestablishing the Jesuits in various countries after their suppression in the 18th century. Aimed to strengthen the formation of Jesuit members and emphasized the importance of academic excellence and pastoral engagement.

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Pope Pius X

Pope and church reformer
Born
June 2nd, 1835 189 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1914 110 years ago — 79 years old

Served as the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church from 1903 until death in 1914. Focused on updating church practices and emphasized frequent communion. Initiated reforms in liturgy and catechism, seeking to counter modernist interpretations of the faith. Canonized saints and promoted devotion to the Eucharist. Advocated for the establishment of a new code of canon law and addressed issues of social justice and poverty.

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Giacomo Radini-Tedeschi

Italian bishop and academic leader
Born
1859 166 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1914 110 years ago — 55 years old

An Italian bishop and academic contributed significantly to the Catholic Church and the educational landscape in Italy. Appointed as Bishop of Crema in 1907, played a key role in regional religious life and church governance. Established educational institutions that emphasized modern education alongside traditional Catholic teachings. Engaged in academic pursuits, influencing theological education during his tenure. Participated actively in various ecclesiastical councils and discussions, addressing issues relevant to the church at the beginning of the 20th century.

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Martha

Last passenger pigeon in captivity
Died
September 1st, 1914 110 years ago — None years old

Martha was the last documented passenger pigeon, a species once numbering in the billions. Born in captivity around 1885, Martha lived her life at the Cincinnati Zoo. The extinction of the species was attributed to habitat loss and extensive hunting. After her death on September 1, 1914, the passenger pigeon was declared extinct, serving as a significant example of the consequences of human activity on wildlife. Martha's remains are preserved and displayed at the Smithsonian Institution.

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Albéric Magnard

French composer and educator
Born
June 9th, 1865 159 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1914 110 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent French composer and educator, produced a significant body of work during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His compositions included symphonies, operas, and chamber music, reflecting a personal style influenced by the late Romantic movement. Magnard established his place in the music world through his dedication to craft and education, founding a music school and mentoring young musicians. His works, while less recognized during his lifetime, have gained appreciation in contemporary classical music repertoires.

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Charles Péguy

French poet and journalist
Born
January 7th, 1873 152 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1914 110 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent poet and journalist from France, contributed significantly to French literature and political thought. Péguy founded the publishing house La Société des Amis de l'Art where many of his works were published. His writings reflect a deep engagement with themes of faith, nationalism, and social justice. Best works include the poem 'Le Portico' and the play 'Mystère de la Charité de Jeanne d'Arc'. He was also involved in the Dreyfus affair, standing firm against anti-Semitism. Péguy died in World War I, serving as a poilu, and left a lasting legacy in French literary and philosophical circles.

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