What Happened This Year 1916

People Who Died in 1916

John S. Mosby

American Civil War cavalry commander
Born
December 6th, 1833 191 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 83 years old

A colonel in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War, commanded the 43rd Battalion Virginia Cavalry. Led Mosby's Rangers, a partisan unit conducting raids behind Union lines. Gained a reputation for guerrilla tactics and rapid maneuvers, which often outsmarted larger Union forces. His strategies and daring actions made significant contributions to the Confederate cavalry's effectiveness.

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Pierre Duhem

French physicist and historian of science
Born
June 9th, 1861 164 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 55 years old

This individual made significant contributions to physics, particularly in thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. Developed the Duhem-Quine thesis, which addresses the testing of scientific theories. Worked extensively on analyzing the history and philosophy of science, emphasizing the interconnectedness of scientific theories. Authored several influential texts, including 'La théorie physique: son object, sa structure'. Served as a professor at the University of Bordeaux, influencing future generations in the fields of physics and philosophy of science.

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George Turner

Australian politician, 18th Premier of Victoria
Born
August 8th, 1851 173 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the 18th Premier of Victoria from 1904 to 1906. Developed significant policies during tenure that focused on infrastructure and public services. Promoted educational reforms and worked on improving health services within the state. Held various roles in the Victorian Parliament over multiple terms, contributing to legislative changes and governance.

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Silvanus P. Thompson

English physicist and engineer
Born
June 19th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1851, contributions included work in both physics and engineering. Held academic positions, notably at University College London and the City and Guilds of London Institute. Authored influential texts in electrical engineering, especially 'The Principles of Alternating Currents'. Engaged in public education on scientific topics.

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Umberto Boccioni

Italian painter and sculptor of Futurism
Born
October 19th, 1882 142 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 34 years old

An influential figure in the Italian Futurist movement, contributions included both painting and sculpture, emphasizing speed, technology, and modernity. Boccioni's work sought to capture dynamic movement and the energy of modern life. Major works included 'The City Rises' and 'Unique Forms of Continuity in Space', which showcased innovative approaches to form and perspective. His life was cut short during World War I, but his artistic vision continued to inspire future generations.

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Gorch Fock

German author and poet, wrote 'Seefahrt'.
Born
August 22nd, 1880 144 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 36 years old

Born in 1880, this individual was a distinguished German author and poet. Early works focused on maritime themes, reflecting a personal connection to the sea. The most notable literary contribution was the novel 'Seefahrt', which vividly depicted the life of seafarers. This work gained considerable acclaim and is regarded as a classic in German literature. The writing style combined lyrical elements with realistic portrayals of naval life, capturing the spirit and challenges faced by sailors. Additionally, this individual contributed to the development of the German literary scene in the early 20th century and engaged with various literary movements. Contributions include poetry that explored themes of longing and adventure, further establishing a reputation within literary circles throughout Germany. The impact of this individual's works continued to influence later generations of writers.

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David Bowman

Australian lawyer and politician
Born
August 24th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 56 years old

Born in Australia in 1860, pursued a career in law and entered politics, representing the interests of the community. Served in various legal capacities, contributing to legislative advancements. Engaged in political discussions and decisions that shaped local governance, and participated in notable legal reforms during tenure in office.

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Seth Low

American politician and academic leader
Born
January 18th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the 92nd Mayor of New York City from 1902 to 1903. Prior to the mayoralty, held positions as president of Columbia University and the City College of New York. Played a significant role in promoting educational reform and urban planning initiatives. Advocated for improvements in public education and municipal governance.

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Élie Metchnikoff

Zoologist and Nobel laureate
Born
May 15th, 1845 180 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 71 years old

A Russian zoologist contributed significantly to the field of immunology. Conducted pioneering research on phagocytosis, the process by which cells ingest harmful microorganisms. Developed the theory of cellular immunity, which laid the groundwork for modern immunology. Received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1908 for work on the immune system and its responses to infections. Served as a professor at the Pasteur Institute in Paris, influencing future research in microbiology and immunology.

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