What Happened This Year 1916

People Who Died in 1916

José Echegaray

Spanish poet and playwright, Nobel laureate
Born
April 19th, 1832 193 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1916 108 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1832, this individual contributed significantly to Spanish literature as both a poet and a playwright. His work encompassed various themes, weaving intricate narratives and exploring complex emotions. In 1904, this individual was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, recognizing the profound influence on his contemporaries and the literary world. The writings reflect a deep understanding of human nature and social issues prevalent during the time.

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Ioannis Frangoudis

Greek general and target shooter
Born
1863 162 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1916 108 years ago — 53 years old

Served as a general in the Hellenic Army during the Balkan Wars and World War I. Competed in shooting events, representing Greece in the Olympics. Contributed to military strategy and operations during his service. Passed away on October 19, 1916.

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William Merritt Chase

Painter and educator with notable works
Born
November 1st, 1849 175 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1916 108 years ago — 66 years old

Active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this artist was a prominent figure in the American art scene. He studied at the National Academy of Design and later in Europe, where influences from Impressionism shaped his style. Returning to the United States, he became a key member of the American Impressionist movement. Chase opened a summer school in East Hampton, fostering artistic talent and collaboration. His impressionistic landscapes and portraits contributed significantly to American art.

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Oswald Boelcke

German fighter pilot and aviation pioneer
Born
May 19th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1916 108 years ago — 25 years old

A distinguished German fighter pilot, contributions significantly shaped aerial combat tactics during World War I. Credited with the development of the first written laws of air combat, greatly influencing future fighter pilots. Served as a commander of Jasta 2 and achieved a notable tally of aerial victories while participating in numerous dogfights. His flying style and tactical innovations laid the groundwork for future air combat strategies.

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Cleveland Abbe

Meteorologist and academic leader
Born
December 3rd, 1838 186 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1916 108 years ago — 77 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of meteorology as a science. Established the principles of weather forecasting and founded the first weather service in the United States. Served as the first director of the Cincinnati Observatory and later worked at the U.S. Weather Bureau, promoting the importance of meteorological research and education. Pioneered the use of the telegraph for delivering weather reports, thereby improving public awareness and safety regarding weather conditions.

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John Sebastian Little

American politician, Governor of Arkansas
Born
March 15th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1916 108 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1851, served as the 12th Governor of Arkansas from 1881 to 1883. A lawyer by profession, focused on legal reforms and education during his term. Advocated for the establishment of the Arkansas Industrial University and worked on policies to improve public education. Held various political roles before his governorship.

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Charles Taze Russell

Minister and founder of Jehovah's Witnesses
Born
1852 173 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1916 108 years ago — 64 years old

An American minister founded a religious movement that emphasized Bible study and interpretation from a non-Trinitarian perspective. Established the Zion's Watch Tower Tract Society in 1881, which published numerous works on biblical topics. Played a significant role in the development of the movement that later became known as Jehovah's Witnesses. Contributed to the creation of The Watchtower magazine, which became an important publication for followers. Died in 1916, leaving a lasting organizational structure within the movement.

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Huang Xing

Chinese revolutionary leader and statesman
Born
October 25th, 1874 150 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1916 108 years ago — 42 years old

Born in 1874, contributed to the early 20th-century revolutionary movement against the Qing Dynasty in China. Studied in Japan, where revolutionary ideas took root. Formed alliances with other revolutionaries and played a crucial role in several uprisings, leading to the establishment of the Republic of China in 1912. Served as the military governor of Hunan and held various influential positions in the new government, advocating for modern military reform and national unification. His vision for a republican China included significant democratic principles and modernization efforts.

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Henry Ward Ranger

American painter and academic
Born
January 29th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1916 108 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1858, an American painter and academic specialized in landscape painting. Ranger played a pivotal role in the emergence of American Impressionism. He studied in Paris and developed a style that showcased the interplay of light and color in natural settings. Ranger was a founding member of the Old Lyme Art Colony, which became a central hub for Impressionist artists in America. His teaching at various art institutions also influenced many aspiring painters, promoting the Impressionist movement across the country.

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