What Happened This Year 1918

People Who Died in 1918

Frank Luke

American World War I flying ace
Born
May 19th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 21 years old

Served as a fighter pilot during World War I. Achieved recognition for aerial combat prowess and for being one of the first aviators to earn the Medal of Honor. Completed a notable mission that involved attacking enemy balloons, leading to a high number of confirmed aerial victories. His contributions to the air war significantly advanced the tactics of aerial combat. Died in action in 1918 while engaging enemy aircraft.

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Albert Ballin

German businessman and shipping magnate
Born
August 15th, 1857 168 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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Hubert Parry

English composer known for choral works
Born
February 27th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent English composer and historian born in 1848, contributions to music include choral and orchestral compositions. Composed the popular hymn 'Jerusalem', which became an emblem of English patriotism. Parry also served as a music educator, influencing generations of musicians. His work in historical musicology established foundations for understanding English music's development during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

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Vasily Safonov

Russian pianist and conductor
Born
February 6th, 1852 173 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 66 years old

Born in Russia, a prominent pianist, composer, and conductor contributed significantly to the musical landscape in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Studied at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory and later became a devoted educator in music. Served as the conductor of the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow, where worked tirelessly to elevate the quality of performances. Recognized for contributions to piano repertoire and distinguished teaching methods, influenced many generations of musicians through his pedagogy. In addition to performing and conducting, composed various works that showcased Russian themes and motifs.

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Abel Ayerza

Argentinian physician and academic
Born
May 21st, 1861 164 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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Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia

Russian Grand Duchess and potential survivor
Born
June 18th, 1901 124 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 17 years old

Born into the Russian imperial family, a grand duchess, experienced the upheaval of the Russian Revolution. Most recognized as the youngest daughter of Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra. Disappeared after the Bolshevik execution of her family in 1918. Numerous claims and stories emerged in the following decades about her possible survival, captivating the public imagination, leading to various cultural depictions.

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Grand Duchess Tatiana Nikolaevna of Russia

Russian Imperial Family Member
Born
June 10th, 1897 128 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 21 years old

Born into the Russian Imperial family, the second daughter of Tsar Nicholas II and Empress Alexandra, she lived during a turbulent period in Russian history. Educated at home alongside her siblings, she developed skills in nursing and philanthropy, notably assisting during World War I. The family's decline in influence coincided with the rise of revolutionary sentiments in Russia. After the abdication of her father in 1917, the family was placed under house arrest and later executed by Bolshevik forces in 1918. The life and tragic end of this grand duchess reflect the fall of the Romanov dynasty and the profound changes in Russian society.

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Edward Bouchet

Physicist and educator, first Black PhD
Born
September 15th, 1852 173 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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