What Happened This Year 1921

People Who Died in 1921

Isabel

Brazilian princess and abolitionist
Born
July 29th, 1846 178 years ago
Died
November 14th, 1921 103 years ago — 75 years old

Born into Brazilian royalty, played a key role in the abolition of slavery in Brazil. As the daughter of Emperor Pedro II, supported social reforms and championed the rights of formerly enslaved individuals. Signed the Lei Áurea, or Golden Law, in 1888, which abolished slavery in Brazil, making it the last country in the Americas to do so. Exiled after the monarchy was overthrown in 1889, spent the rest of life in Europe, advocating for the abolitionist cause.

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Tadhg Barry

Veteran Irish republican and trade unionist
Born
1880 145 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1921 103 years ago — 41 years old

Involved in the struggle for Irish independence, played a significant role in the republican movement in Ireland. Worked closely with trade unions to advocate for workers' rights and living conditions. Actively participated in several key events of the early 20th century that aimed to achieve political and social reforms. Contributed to various publications and initiatives focusing on labor issues and republican ideals. Died under controversial circumstances during the Irish War of Independence.

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Edward J. Adams

American serial killer and bank robber
Born
1887 138 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1921 103 years ago — 34 years old

Involved in a series of violent crimes during the early 20th century, this individual operated primarily in the United States. Notoriety rose from a pattern of bank robberies that escalated into a spree of murders. Captured, tried, and convicted for multiple killings, the actions raised public awareness regarding crime and safety. Executed in 1921, the case remains significant in discussions about criminal psychology and law enforcement.

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Douglas Cameron

Canadian politician and Lieutenant Governor
Born
June 8th, 1854 170 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1921 103 years ago — 67 years old

A politician served as the 8th Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba. Appointed in 1901, held the position until 1906. Oversaw significant developments in the province during tenure. Involved in numerous civic and governmental initiatives and contributed to the growth of Manitoba.

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ʻAbdu'l-Bahá

Iranian religious leader and author
Born
May 23rd, 1844 180 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1921 103 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1844, this figure served as the leader of the Bahá'í Faith following the death of the founder. Significant contributions included extensive writings that outlined the principles of the faith. He traveled to various countries to promote religious unity, peace, and social justice. His efforts in the early 20th century helped shape the global Bahá'í community and its understanding of advocacy for equality and international cooperation.

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Said Halim Pasha

Ottoman politician, Grand Vizier
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1921 103 years ago — 56 years old

Served as the 280th Grand Vizier of the Ottoman Empire from 1913 to 1917. Played a significant role during World War I, overseeing political and military strategies. Advocated for reform within the Ottoman government, including modernization efforts. Engaged in diplomatic relations with various countries during a tumultuous period for the empire.

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Henrietta Swan Leavitt

American astronomer studying Cepheid variables
Born
July 4th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
December 12th, 1921 103 years ago — 53 years old

An American astronomer and academic contributed significantly to the field of astronomy through research on variable stars, specifically Cepheid variables. Developed a method to determine distances to far-off galaxies using the relationship between a Cepheid's luminosity and its pulsation period. This work laid the foundation for later discoveries regarding the expansion of the universe. Worked at the Harvard College Observatory, where many female astronomers operated under the title of 'computers', analyzing star data and making crucial astronomical advancements during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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Camille Saint-Saëns

French composer and conductor, 'Carnival of the Animals'
Born
October 9th, 1835 189 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1921 103 years ago — 86 years old

A prominent French composer and conductor, contributed significantly to the development of the symphonic poem and opera. Composed the opera 'Samson and Delilah', which gained acclaim in the late 19th century. Also created orchestral works such as 'Danse Macabre' and symphonies, incorporating elements of French nationalism. Worked as a conductor, leading various orchestras throughout Europe and promoting the works of fellow composers.

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Julius Richard Petri

Microbiologist and Petri dish inventor
Born
May 31st, 1852 172 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1921 103 years ago — 69 years old

Julius Richard Petri was a German microbiologist who developed the Petri dish, a device widely used in laboratories for culturing microorganisms. Educated at the University of Berlin, Petri worked under the influential bacteriologist Robert Koch. The Petri dish revolutionized the study and isolation of bacteria, facilitating advancements in microbiology and medicine. Petri's work contributed to the understanding of various infectious diseases and hygiene practices in medical settings. His invention continues to be an essential tool in laboratories around the world.

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