What Happened This Year 1916

Born in 1916

Albert Murray

American author and literary critic
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
August 18th, 2013 11 years ago — 97 years old

Contributed significantly to American literature through a focus on African American culture and identity. Developed a critical perspective that highlighted the connections between jazz and literary forms. Authored several influential works including 'The Omni-Americans' and 'South to a Very Old Place'. Worked as a critic and essayist, engaging with popular culture and literature through a reflective lens.

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Cesar Climaco

Filipino politician and Zamboanga City Mayor
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
November 14th, 1984 40 years ago — 68 years old

Served as the 10th Mayor of Zamboanga City, holding office during the 1970s. Climaco was a prominent figure in local governance and law, advocating for various policies aimed at community development. His administration focused on urban development and infrastructure improvements, fostering growth within the city. His tenure was marked by efforts to address social issues and enhance public services.

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Eddie Burns

Rugby league player, NSW State of Origin
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
June 30th, 2004 20 years ago — 88 years old

Played rugby league primarily for St. George and represented New South Wales in the State of Origin. Active during the 1980s and early 1990s, contributed significantly to the team’s performance during his tenure. His career included participating in numerous championships, showcasing skills that solidified his reputation within the sport. Retired with a legacy as a passionate player who embodied the competitive spirit of rugby league.

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Fred Hargesheimer

American soldier and pilot
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2010 14 years ago — 94 years old

Served as a pilot in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Elected to fly bombing missions over enemy territory in the Pacific Theater. After sustaining serious injuries and being captured, escaped captivity and evaded enemy forces in Japanese-occupied territory. Contributed to the war effort through daring acts of bravery and resilience. Awarded the Air Medal and Purple Heart for valor.

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Jim Tabor

Professional baseball player
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1953 71 years ago — 37 years old

A professional baseball player played as a third baseman and outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1939 to 1945. He played primarily for the Boston Red Sox and the Philadelphia Athletics. Tabor was a part of the Red Sox team that competed in the 1946 American League pennant race, contributing solid offensive and defensive skills during his career. After retiring from professional baseball, Tabor pursued a career in coaching at various levels.

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Freddy Schmidt

American baseball player
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
November 17th, 2012 12 years ago — 96 years old

Played professional baseball primarily as a pitcher in Major League Baseball. His career spanned the 1930s and 1940s, during which he played for teams including the St. Louis Cardinals and the Chicago Cubs. Schmidt contributed to multiple seasons in the major leagues, and his performance on the mound was noted for its effectiveness. He eventually transitioned to coaching roles after his playing career, further contributing to the sport.

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Chuck Cherundolo

Football player and coach, US national team
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 2012 12 years ago — 96 years old

Cherundolo played as a defender in professional soccer, primarily with Hannover 96 in Germany from 1999 to 2014. He earned 87 caps for the United States national team, participating in the 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cups. After retirement, he transitioned to coaching, serving as an assistant for various clubs and with the U.S. youth national teams.

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I. J. Good

British mathematician and statistician
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
April 5th, 2009 16 years ago — 93 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and statistics. Worked on Bayesian statistics and decision theory. Developed the Good-Turing frequency estimation method. Collaborated with notable figures during World War II on cryptography, particularly in the context of codebreaking.

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Wang Dongxing

Chinese Commander and Politician
Born
1916 109 years ago
Died
August 21st, 2015 9 years ago — 99 years old

Served as a key military and political figure in China during the late 20th century. Played a significant role in the Communist Party's leadership and government, holding various important positions. Notably participated in the Cultural Revolution and played a part in the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989. Contributed to the organizational structure of the People's Liberation Army and the Central Military Commission, influencing military policy and party governance.

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