What Happened This Year 1915

People Who Died in 1915

Keir Hardie

Scottish politician and trade unionist
Born
August 15th, 1856 169 years ago
Died
1915 110 years ago — 59 years old

Engaged in the labor movement, contributed to the establishment of the Independent Labour Party in 1893. Advocated for workers' rights and social reforms throughout political career. Served as the first parliamentary leader of the Labour Party. Played a significant role in promoting welfare legislation and improving conditions for the working class in the UK.

Continue Reading

Walter Crane

English artist and book illustrator
Born
August 15th, 1845 180 years ago
Died
1915 110 years ago — 70 years old

An artist and book illustrator, Crane played a significant role in the development of children's book illustration during the late 19th century. He contributed extensively to the Arts and Crafts Movement and was a key figure in the establishment of the modern picture book. His illustrations reflected a blend of medieval imagery and contemporary themes. Crane designed many notable children's books, including 'The Baby's Opera' and 'The Frog Prince'. He also created illustrations for various magazines and newspapers, influencing visual art and design in publishing.

Continue Reading

Washington Atlee Burpee

Seed company founder and businessman
Born
April 5th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1915 110 years ago — 57 years old

Founded the Burpee Seed Company, which played a crucial role in popularizing gardening in North America. Expanded the company into a leading seed supplier, introducing various vegetable and flower seed varieties. Advocated for quality seeds and innovative gardening techniques through catalogs that reached a wide audience. Contributed to agricultural advancements by supporting the hybridization of plants.

Continue Reading

Thomas Keefer

Canadian engineer and businessman
Born
November 4th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
1915 110 years ago — 94 years old

An engineer and businessman, played a pivotal role in the development of Canada's infrastructure. Worked extensively on the construction of the St. Lawrence Canal and the Welland Canal, contributing to improved navigation and trade in the region. Participated in various engineering projects that enhanced transportation networks across Canada. Engaged in the promotion of hydroelectric power, laying groundwork for future energy projects.

Continue Reading

Friedrich Loeffler

Bacteriologist known for diphtheria research
Born
June 24th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
1915 110 years ago — 63 years old

Contributed significantly to microbiology and the study of infectious diseases. Established the role of the bacterium in causing diphtheria and conducted extensive research on the pathogenic agents of animal diseases. Played a key role in the development of vaccines and methods of disease control. Served as a professor and worked at the Imperial Health Office in Berlin, shaping the future of bacteriology and public health.

Continue Reading

Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt

American businessman and racing enthusiast
Born
October 20th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1915 110 years ago — 38 years old

Engaged in the family shipping and railroad businesses, Vanderbilt played a significant role in the expansion of various transportation companies. He also became an influential figure in horse racing, owning and breeding thoroughbreds. Notably, Vanderbilt participated in the 1915 New York Yacht Club’s race, further showcasing his passion for sports. His life was tragically cut short in the sinking of the RMS Lusitania in 1915.

Continue Reading

George Washington Ball

American legislator and public servant
Born
June 7th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
1915 110 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1847, served as a legislator in Iowa. Contributed to the development of local infrastructure and laws. Engaged in public affairs and community development throughout his career. Actively participated in various civic engagements, enhancing the political landscape of the region.

Continue Reading