What Happened This Year 1915

People Who Died in 1915

Robert Smalls

Ship's pilot and U.S. Congressman
Born
April 5th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
1915 111 years ago — 76 years old

An African-American ship's pilot and sea captain, played a significant role during the Civil War by commandeering a Confederate transport ship and surrendering it to Union forces. This act of bravery and strategic thinking contributed to the Union's naval strength. After the war, served as a politician, advocating for civil rights and education for African Americans. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, represented South Carolina's 5th congressional district during the Reconstruction era. His work in politics focused on legislation supporting black suffrage and public education.

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George Llewelyn Davies

English soldier during World War I
Born
July 20th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
1915 111 years ago — 22 years old

Served as a soldier in the British Army during World War I. Fought in significant battles on the Western Front. Participated in the First Battle of the Somme, where he sustained injuries. Later served in the Royal Flying Corps. Was part of the military efforts that contributed to the overall war strategy.

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Thomas Keefer

Canadian engineer and businessman
Born
November 4th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
1915 111 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.

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Antonio Agliardi

Italian cardinal and church leader
Born
September 4th, 1832 193 years ago
Died
1915 111 years ago — 83 years old

Antonio Agliardi served as a significant figure in the Catholic Church during the 19th century. Ordained as a priest, Agliardi held various ecclesiastical positions, including serving as a bishop. His leadership in the church extended to participation in the First Vatican Council, which addressed fundamental issues regarding church governance and doctrine. Agliardi focused on pastoral care and ecclesiastical administration throughout his ministry, contributing to the church's efforts in spiritual guidance and community outreach.

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Daniel Varoujan

Armenian poet and educator
Born
April 20th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1915 111 years ago — 31 years old

Born in 1884, this Armenian figure contributed significantly to literature and education in Armenia. He became associated with the literary group 'Gomidas' and worked to promote Armenian culture and poetry. His works expressed a deep connection to Armenian identity, heritage, and social themes. The poet's most revered collections include 'The Songs of the Sun' and 'The Poems of Yerevan'. In addition to poetry, he also focused on educational reform, emphasizing the importance of Armenian language and literature in schools. Varoujan's life was cut short in 1915 during the Armenian Genocide, but his literary legacy remains influential within Armenian literature.

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Carlos Finlay

Cuban epidemiologist and physician
Born
December 3rd, 1833 192 years ago
Died
1915 111 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to the understanding of yellow fever. Proposed the mosquito as the vector for the disease, leading to groundbreaking research in disease transmission. Served as a professor of hygiene and taught medical students about tropical diseases. Conducted various studies that advanced epidemiology and public health in Cuba and beyond.

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John Ulric Nef

Chemist and academic in organic chemistry
Born
June 14th, 1862 163 years ago
Died
1915 111 years ago — 53 years old

A Swiss-American chemist and academic specialized in organic chemistry. Contributed significantly to the understanding of chemical reactions and organic synthesis. Served as a professor at the University of Chicago, guiding research and education in chemistry. Published influential research papers and texts that shaped the field's development. Engaged in the academic community through teaching and mentorship, influencing future generations of chemists.

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George Washington Ball

American legislator and public servant
Born
June 7th, 1847 178 years ago
Died
1915 111 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.

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Upendrakishore Ray Chowdhury

Bengali writer and technologist.
Born
May 12th, 1863 162 years ago
Died
1915 111 years ago — 52 years old

Contributed to Bengali literature through children's stories, essays, and translations. Authored the acclaimed children's magazine 'Sandesh', influencing young readers in Bengal. Engaged in painting and music as a violin player and composer. Developed various technological innovations and ran a successful printing press. Advocated for quality children's literature and education in Bengal during the early 20th century.

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