What Happened This Year 1918

People Who Died in 1918

Gordon Flowerdew

Canadian Lieutenant, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
January 2nd, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 33 years old

Served as a lieutenant in the Canadian Expeditionary Force during World War I. Demonstrated extraordinary bravery at the Battle of Moreuil Wood in March 1918. Led a cavalry charge against enemy machine gun positions, resulting in significant enemy casualties and the capture of strategic ground. Awarded the Victoria Cross for gallantry in the face of the enemy, recognizing acts of extraordinary valor.

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Robbie Ross

Canadian journalist and art critic
Born
May 25th, 1869 156 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 49 years old

Worked as a journalist and art critic, contributing to significant publications. Actively engaged in the promotion of Canadian art and culture. Played a crucial role in the careers of several prominent artists, providing support and advocacy. Had a close relationship with notable figures in the art world, including influential artists and writers.

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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 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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Raoul Lufbery

French-American fighter pilot and ace
Born
March 14th, 1885 140 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 33 years old

Born in 1885, served as a soldier and pilot during World War I. Joined the Lafayette Escadrille, a group of American volunteer pilots in the French Air Force. Achieved fame as a flying ace, credited with 17 aerial victories. Later transferred to the United States Army Air Service and continued to demonstrate exceptional skill in aerial combat. His service contributed to the Allied efforts in gaining air superiority during the war.

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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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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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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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