What Happened This Year 1919

People Who Died in 1919

Anatole Mallet

Swiss mechanical engineer and inventor
Born
May 23rd, 1837 189 years ago
Died
1919 107 years ago — 82 years old

Significant contributions to railways resulted from innovations in locomotive design. Developed the Mallet locomotive type, which featured a unique articulated design allowing for better maneuverability on narrow gauge tracks. This design improved efficiency and adaptability of steam locomotives in various terrains. Actively participated in engineering advancements during the 19th century, impacting rail transport.

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Edward Charles Pickering

Astronomer and physicist, Harvard College Observatory director
Born
July 19th, 1846 180 years ago
Died
1919 107 years ago — 73 years old

Served as director of the Harvard College Observatory from 1877 to 1919, conducting extensive research in astronomy. Developed the first standard photographic methods for measuring the brightness of stars and created a stellar classification system. Led efforts to employ women in astronomy, notably hiring many as computer counters. Instrumental in the creation of the Henry Draper Catalogue, which listed over 225,000 stars and their spectra.

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Raymonde de Laroche

French aviation pioneer and pilot
Born
August 22nd, 1882 143 years ago
Died
1919 107 years ago — 37 years old

Born in 1882, a pioneering aviator in France gained recognition as the first woman to obtain a pilot's license in 1910. Her passion for aviation began when she attended a flying school. She trained under renowned aviators and rapidly progressed to flying solo. De Laroche participated in various competitions, showcasing her skills in the air. She also contributed to the advancement of aviation technology and encouraged women to pursue aviation as a career. Her achievements in a male-dominated field paved the way for future generations of female pilots.

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Luisa Cappiani

Austrian soprano, educator, essayist
Born
April 24th, 1829 197 years ago
Died
1919 107 years ago — 90 years old

Born in Austria in 1829, a distinguished soprano, educator, and essayist. Achieved acclaim for performances in opera and concert settings throughout Europe. Educated many aspiring singers and contributed to music literature through essays and writings. Significant influence on the development of vocal pedagogy and appreciation of opera in the 19th century.

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Carl Larsson

Swedish painter of folk life scenes
Born
May 28th, 1853 173 years ago
Died
1919 107 years ago — 66 years old

A Swedish painter and author, notable for depicting Swedish life, particularly in the context of family and rural culture. Critically acclaimed works include 'Laura' and 'A Home.' Larsson's vibrant watercolors and evocative sketches reflect the essence of Swedish craftsmanship and domestic life. He contributed significantly to the Arts and Crafts movement in Sweden. His artistic approach to illustrating everyday moments garnered attention both in Sweden and internationally, establishing a legacy that resonates in the fields of art and design.

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Caroline Still Anderson

American physician and educator
Born
November 1st, 1848 177 years ago
Died
1919 107 years ago — 71 years old

Became the first African American woman to earn a medical degree in the United States from Women's Medical College of Pennsylvania in 1883. Contributed to the establishment of the Philadelphia College of Medicine for Women, which provided access to medical education for women. Advocated for abolition and worked towards racial equality, promoting health education in African American communities.

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Phoebe Hearst

Philanthropist and activist
Born
December 3rd, 1842 183 years ago
Died
1919 107 years ago — 77 years old

Active in social and educational reform, contributed to the establishment of numerous educational institutions. Played a crucial role in founding the University of California and the Hearst Memorial Mining Building. Philanthropic efforts included support for the Hearst Art Gallery and various women's education initiatives. Engaged in advocacy for improved living conditions in California's communities and contributed substantially to charitable organizations.

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Adelsteen Normann

Norwegian painter of landscapes
Born
May 1st, 1848 178 years ago
Died
1919 107 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1848, this individual became a significant figure in Norwegian art, particularly noted for landscapes that vividly depicted the Norwegian countryside. Studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen and traveled extensively in Europe, influencing the development of Norwegian landscape painting. His artwork received recognition for its emotional depth and representation of natural beauty. The painter's work included various exhibitions that showcased scenes from Norway's fjords and mountains.

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Friedrich Sigmund Merkel

Anatomist and histopathologist
Born
April 5th, 1845 181 years ago
Died
1919 107 years ago — 74 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of anatomy and histopathology with a focus on the study of sensory organs. Developed the Merkel cell, a mechanoreceptor important for touch sensitivity. Conducted extensive research on various tissues and organs, linking structure and function. Authored multiple scientific papers and reports that advanced the understanding of cell and tissue biology. Aside from the contributions to histology, also played a key role in teaching and mentoring future scientists in the discipline.

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