What Happened This Year 1918

People Who Died in 1918

Arrigo Boito

Italian composer and librettist
Born
February 24th, 1842 183 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1918 106 years ago — 76 years old

One of the notable figures in Italian opera, a career included significant contributions as a composer and librettist. Authored the librettos for several major operas, including 'Falstaff' and 'Otello' for Giuseppe Verdi. Also composed operas such as 'Mefistofele', which received acclaim for its lyrical depth and innovative approach. Boito made contributions to the Italian music scene as a journalist and critic, influencing contemporary composers and the direction of Italian opera during his time.

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Michael Alexandrovich

Russian Grand Duke and military leader
Born
1878 147 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1918 106 years ago — 40 years old

Born into Russian royalty, served as a Grand Duke and held significant military ranks during World War I. Actively participated in military operations and took part in the political upheaval during the Russian Revolution. Captured by Bolsheviks after the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II. Executed in 1918, along with other members of the imperial family, following the revolution's radical changes.

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Bazil Assan

Romanian engineer and explorer
Born
August 1st, 1860 164 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1918 106 years ago — 57 years old

An engineer and explorer, undertook significant expeditions in the late 19th century. Focused on geographical and geological research in the Carpathian Mountains and regions of Romania. Contributed to the understanding of the natural resources and topography through detailed surveys and documentation.

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Francesco Baracca

Italian fighter pilot, wartime ace
Born
May 9th, 1888 136 years ago
Died
June 19th, 1918 106 years ago — 30 years old

Born in 1888, served in the Italian Air Force during World War I. Achieved prominence as a fighter pilot, becoming Italy's most celebrated air ace. Accumulated a significant number of aerial victories, showcasing exceptional aviation skills. Played a pivotal role in several key battles, demonstrating tactical prowess and bravery. His legacy endures through the Baracca emblem, a prancing horse, later adopted by Ferrari.

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Jake Beckley

Baseball player and coach
Born
August 4th, 1867 157 years ago
Died
June 25th, 1918 106 years ago — 50 years old

Debuted in Major League Baseball in 1888, contributing significantly as a first baseman. Played for teams such as the Pittsburgh Pirates, Cincinnati Reds, and St. Louis Cardinals over a career spanning more than two decades. Established a reputation as a reliable hitter, finishing with over 2,900 hits. Transitioned to coaching following retirement from active play, influencing future generations of players.

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Peter Rosegger

Austrian poet and author of 'Waldheimat'
Born
July 31st, 1843 181 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1918 106 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1843, a prominent Austrian poet and author produced works that reflected rural life and nature in Austria. He gained recognition for the literary portrayal of the Styrian landscape, especially in the book 'Waldheimat'. Rosegger also focused on pressing social issues, advocating for educational reform and rural education through his writings. His literary contributions not only enriched Austrian literature, but also provided insights into the life and struggles of the rural populace during the late 19th century. Engaged in cultural and social matters, he left a lasting influence on literature and education in Austria.

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Mehmed V

Ottoman Sultan during WWI era
Born
November 2nd, 1844 180 years ago
Died
July 3rd, 1918 106 years ago — 73 years old

Ruled as Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1909 until 1918. Oversaw the empire during World War I, including its participation on the side of the Central Powers. Managed internal unrest and nationalistic movements while addressing the challenges posed by external threats. His reign was marked by significant military campaigns and territorial changes resulting from the war, which ultimately contributed to the dissolution of the empire.

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Wilhelm von Mirbach

German diplomat during World War I
Born
1871 154 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1918 106 years ago — 47 years old

Served as the German ambassador to Russia during the tumultuous period of World War I. Actively contributed to diplomatic negotiations and relations between Germany and Russia. Ultimately opposed the Bolsheviks and was involved in efforts to stabilize German influence in the region. Assassinated during the political upheaval in Russia in 1918, shortly after the signing of the Treaty of Brest-Litovsk, which recognized the separate peace between Germany and Soviet Russia.

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Quentin Roosevelt

American lieutenant and pilot
Born
November 19th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1918 106 years ago — 20 years old

Born in 1897, served as a lieutenant in the United States Army Air Service during World War I. Completed flight training and was assigned to the 95th Aero Squadron. Participated in multiple missions over France and engaged in aerial combat. Demonstrated bravery in various operations. Died in action during a dogfight in July 1918.

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