What Happened This Year 1915

People Who Died in 1915

Gopal Krishna Gokhale

Indian politician and social reformer
Born
May 9th, 1866 158 years ago
Died
February 19th, 1915 110 years ago — 48 years old

A prominent leader in the Indian independence movement, focused on social reform and the upliftment of the general populace. Established the Servants of India Society in 1905 to promote education and social service. Advocated for constitutional reforms and participated in the Indian National Congress, emphasizing moderation and dialogue with the British colonial administration. Frequented debates and discussions on social issues, promoting education as a means for uplifting society. Mentored several future leaders, including Mahatma Gandhi.

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Charles Edwin Bessey

Botanist and author of botanical texts
Born
1845 180 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1915 110 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent botanist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of botany. Served as a professor at the University of Nebraska and authored several influential botanical texts. Bessey was a strong advocate for the scientific study of plants and played a role in the development of plant classification systems. His work on plant ecology laid foundations for future studies in the discipline, emphasizing the importance of studying plants in their natural environments.

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William Willett

English inventor of British Summer Time
Born
August 10th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1915 110 years ago — 58 years old

An English inventor proposed the concept of daylight saving time, which later became known as British Summer Time. Willett published a pamphlet in 1907 titled 'The Waste of Daylight' that outlined the benefits of shifting the clock forward in spring and back in autumn. The proposal aimed to make better use of daylight during the longer days of summer. Despite the initial resistance, the idea gained traction and was eventually implemented during World War I in 1916 for energy conservation. Willett's advocacy for this change significantly influenced time management practices in various countries.

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Thomas Alexander Browne

English-Australian author with 'Miss Murphy'
Born
August 6th, 1826 198 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1915 110 years ago — 88 years old

Born in England, moved to Australia, and became a prominent author. Achieved recognition for works that captured the essence of Australian life. Wrote under the pseudonym 'Rolf Boldrewood' and produced novels that illustrated the colonial experience. One of the most notable works is 'Robbery Under Arms', a classic of Australian literature, detailing the lives of bushrangers. His writing reflected social issues of the time and contributed to the development of the Australian literary scene.

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Frederick Winslow Taylor

Industrial engineer and efficiency expert
Born
March 20th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1915 109 years ago — 59 years old

An engineer and management consultant, contributed to the development of scientific management. Established methods to improve industrial efficiency and productivity through systematic observations and time studies. Authored 'The Principles of Scientific Management,' which laid the foundation for modern management practices. Implemented time and motion studies to analyze workflows in manufacturing settings.

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Karol Olszewski

Chemist and physicist, liquid oxygen innovator
Born
January 29th, 1846 179 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1915 109 years ago — 69 years old

A Polish chemist, mathematician, and physicist contributed significantly to the field of physical sciences. Conducted groundbreaking experiments in liquefaction and successfully liquefied oxygen in 1883. Collaborated with other scientists to further advancements in cryogenics. Also engaged in academic pursuits, teaching at various institutions and sharing knowledge on thermodynamics and related subjects.

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Margaret Lindsay Huggins

Anglo-Irish astronomer and astrophysicist
Born
August 14th, 1848 176 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1915 109 years ago — 66 years old

Pioneered advancements in astrophotography in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Collaborated with her husband, pioneering astronomy and significantly contributing to the study of stellar spectroscopy. Credited with the discovery of several nebulae and other celestial phenomena using innovative methods of imaging. Participated actively in the scientific community and contributed numerous papers to astronomical journals, enhancing understanding of celestial bodies.

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William Wallace Denslow

Illustrator of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
Born
1856 169 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1915 109 years ago — 59 years old

An American illustrator and caricaturist, primarily recognized for the beloved illustrations in L. Frank Baum's 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.' Denslow's vibrant and imaginative artwork greatly contributed to the book's popularity and charm. In addition to 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,' he created illustrations for other works, including 'The Royal Book of Oz' and 'Denslow's Mother Goose.' His style combined whimsical elements with bold colors, making a lasting impression on children's literature. Throughout his career, Denslow worked on various projects, including advertising illustrations and theatrical productions, establishing himself as a prominent figure in American illustration during the early 20th century.

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Wyndham Halswelle

Runner and Olympic gold medalist
Born
May 30th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1915 109 years ago — 32 years old

Competed as a middle-distance runner, achieving significant success in the early 20th century. Gained recognition for participation in the 1908 London Olympic Games, where won the gold medal in the 400 meters. Also represented Great Britain in various international competitions, contributing to the sport during a formative period.

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