What Happened This Year 1918

People Who Died in 1918

Prince Erik

Duke of Västmanland
Born
April 20th, 1889 136 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 29 years old

Born in 1889, served as Duke of Västmanland. Engaged in royal duties, supported various charitable causes, and participated in cultural activities. Participated in several official events representing the Swedish royal family.

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Albert Ballin

German businessman and shipping magnate
Born
August 15th, 1857 167 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent German businessman, Ballin led the HAPAG shipping company, transforming it into one of the world's largest shipping lines. Under Ballin's leadership, the company expanded its fleet and introduced luxury ocean liners, enhancing transatlantic travel. He also played a crucial role in fostering trade between Germany and America. His innovative approaches to maritime business included the establishment of regular shipping schedules and the development of passenger services, which set new standards for the industry.

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Antonio Cotogni

Opera singer and educator in Italy
Born
August 1st, 1831 193 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Italy, an accomplished opera singer and a significant voice in the 19th century. Cotogni specialized in bel canto techniques and performed leading roles at renowned theaters. He gained recognition for performances at La Scala in Milan and was influential in the education of future generations of singers. In addition to a successful performance career, he dedicated time to teaching, contributing to the development of vocal techniques in Italy.

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Vernon Castle

Dancer and choreographer of 'Castle Walk'
Born
May 2nd, 1887 137 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 31 years old

Born in 1887, a prominent English-American dancer and choreographer significantly influenced ballroom dancing in the early 20th century. Along with a partner, developed the Castle Walk, a dance that became immensely popular. The innovative work in dance styles also included contributions to Broadway and early cinema. Collaborations with other performers led to a distinctive style that combined elegance and showmanship. Passed away in 1918.

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Abel Ayerza

Argentinian physician and academic
Born
May 21st, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 57 years old

Graduated in medicine from the University of Buenos Aires and specialized in gynecology. Contributed to the field of medicine through various academic roles and published important research in obstetrics and gynecology. Served as a professor at multiple medical institutions, influencing the education of future physicians. Actively engaged in advancing medical practices in Argentina, particularly in reproductive health.

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Alan Arnett McLeod

Canadian lieutenant, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
April 20th, 1899 126 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 19 years old

Served as a pilot in the Royal Flying Corps during World War I. Demonstrated bravery in action, notably during a mission over enemy lines where attacked by German aircraft. Successfully engaged and defeated multiple enemy fighters despite being heavily outnumbered. Awarded the Victoria Cross for gallantry, becoming one of the youngest recipients of this honor during the war.

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Alix of Hesse

German princess and Russian empress
Born
June 6th, 1872 152 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 46 years old

Born into the Hesse family, she married Nicholas II, the last Emperor of Russia, in 1894. Through this union, she became Empress Alexandra of Russia. Her reign coincided with political turmoil and World War I, leading to significant societal changes. Alexandra took an active role in charitable works, particularly in aid of soldiers' families during the war. The family faced immense challenges, resulting in their eventual assassination in 1918 during the Bolshevik Revolution. The remains of the imperial family were located and identified decades later, leading to their canonization by the Russian Orthodox Church.

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Walter Rauschenbusch

Theologian and key figure in Social Gospel
Born
October 4th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 57 years old

An American pastor and theologian, contributed significantly to the Social Gospel movement in the early 20th century. Advocated for social justice and the application of Christian ethics to social problems. Held a teaching position at Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School, where influential works were created. Writings emphasized the need for societal reform based on Christian principles and included discussions on poverty, labor rights, and the role of the church in addressing social issues.

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Edward Bouchet

Physicist and educator, first Black PhD
Born
September 15th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 66 years old

Graduated from Yale University in 1874, becoming the first African American to earn a doctorate in a science field. Bouchet's dissertation focused on the conduction of electricity through gases. He taught physics and chemistry for several years at various institutions, including the Institute for Colored Youth in Philadelphia. His career largely focused on education and mentorship in the sciences, aiming to increase access to education for African Americans during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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