What Happened This Year 1918

People Who Died in 1918

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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Charles W. Fairbanks

American Vice President during Roosevelt
Born
May 11th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the 26th Vice President of the United States from 1905 to 1909 under President Theodore Roosevelt. Previously, held a prominent position in journalism and worked as a lawyer and politician in Indiana. Chaired the Republican National Committee prior to assuming the vice presidency. Actively supported the Roosevelt administration's progressive policies during his term in office.

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Louis Renault

French jurist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 21st, 1843 181 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 75 years old

A jurist and educator specialized in international law, contributed significantly to legal scholarship and practice. Renault served as a professor at the University of Paris and played a vital role in the establishment of the Institute of International Law. Instrumental in formulating principles that guided the legal frameworks of international governance. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1907 for efforts towards promoting peace through legal means and diplomacy, emphasizing the importance of international regulations in conflict resolution.

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César Ritz

Founder of luxury Ritz hotels
Born
February 23rd, 1850 175 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 68 years old

A Swiss businessman, established the Ritz Hotel in London and Hôtel Ritz Paris, revolutionizing luxury hospitality. Emphasized high standards of service and comfort. His hotels became synonymous with elegance and sophistication, attracting affluent clientele from around the world.

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Hazard Stevens

American military officer and mountaineer
Born
June 9th, 1842 182 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1842, a military officer served in the United States Army. Participated in the American Civil War and achieved the rank of colonel. Engaged in significant mountaineering expeditions, including notable climbs in the Pacific Northwest. Active in politics post-military service, contributed to local government. Authored several works on outdoor adventures and mountaineering experiences.

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Archibald Willard

American soldier and painter of 'The Spirit of '76'
Born
August 22nd, 1836 188 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1836, a soldier and painter contributed to American art through depictions of patriotic themes. The most recognized work, 'The Spirit of '76,' portrays a triumphant scene of three soldiers marching with the American flag. This painting encapsulated the patriotic fervor of the time and became a symbol of Americana. Willard's artistic talent flourished alongside his military service during the Civil War, providing him a unique perspective on the themes depicted in his art. His works continue to be celebrated for their representation of national pride during a pivotal period in American history.

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