What Happened This Year 1928

People Who Died in 1928

Loie Fuller

Dancer and lighting innovator from America
Born
1862 163 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1928 97 years ago — 66 years old

A pioneering figure in modern dance, contributions included the development of the 'Serpentine Dance' and the innovative use of stage lighting. Utilized fabric as a major element of performance, creating dynamic visual effects that enhanced the dance experience. Worked closely with lighting designer Thomas Edison, experimenting with incandescent light and colored gels. Found success in Europe, where performances captivated audiences and influenced future dance and theater productions.

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Alvin Kraenzlein

American hurdler and Olympic champion
Born
December 12th, 1876 148 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1928 97 years ago — 51 years old

A prominent American athlete in the early 20th century, competed in track and field events specializing in hurdles and long jump. Achieved significant success at the 1900 Paris Olympics, where victories were secured in the 110-meter hurdles, 400-meter hurdles, long jump, and 200-meter dash. These accomplishments marked a pivotal point in Olympic history, as becoming the first athlete to win four gold medals in a single Olympics. After work in coaching and education, contributions to the field of athletics continued.

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Wilhelm Ramsay

Geologist, professor and pioneer in geology
Born
January 20th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1928 97 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent geologist and professor, contributed significantly to the understanding of geological formations. Developed new theories in the field of geomorphology and mineralogy, influencing both academic research and practical applications. His research encompassed various aspects of geology, including the study of rock formations and their implications for understanding Earth's history. Held academic positions at leading institutions and mentored numerous students, fostering future generations of geologists.

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Thomas Hardy

English novelist and poet
Born
June 2nd, 1840 184 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1928 97 years ago — 87 years old

A prominent English novelist and poet, produced significant literary works in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Explored themes of social constraint, rural life, and human despondency through intricate narrative and character development. Notable works include novels such as 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles' and 'Jude the Obscure'. Poetry often reflected a melancholic outlook on life and nature, with collections such as 'Moments of Vision' showcasing lyrical prowess. Hardy's departure from Victorian traditions and incorporation of naturalism influenced subsequent literary movements.

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Earle Nelson

American serial killer known as 'The Gorilla Man'
Born
May 12th, 1897 127 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1928 97 years ago — 30 years old

Active in the 1920s, relied on a pattern of targeting women, employed strangulation as a method of murder. Victims included women in various states across the United States, with a series of killings that spanned multiple cities. Arrested in 1926, the individual had a history of criminal behavior, including robbery and assault. Convicted of murder and sentenced to death, execution took place in San Quentin Prison in 1928.

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George Washington Goethals

American general overseeing Panama Canal
Born
June 29th, 1858 166 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1928 97 years ago — 69 years old

An American general and engineer played a pivotal role in the construction of the Panama Canal. Appointed as the chief engineer of the Panama Canal project, led efforts that successfully completed the canal, an engineering marvel connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Oversaw the transition from French to American construction efforts and implemented significant health measures to control diseases such as yellow fever and malaria that plagued workers. Was appointed as the first governor of the Panama Canal Zone after the canal's completion, managing its operations and governance.

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Douglas Haig

Scottish field marshal of WWI
Born
June 19th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1928 97 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent British military leader, contributed significantly during the First World War. Commanded the British Expeditionary Force from 1915 to 1918, overseeing major battles such as the Battle of the Somme and the Battle of Passchendaele. Played a key role in coordinating Allied strategy during the war's later stages. Post-war, held the title of 1st Earl Haig and continued involvement in veterans' affairs for the British Legion, addressing military needs and welfare.

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Johannes Fibiger

Danish physician and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 23rd, 1867 157 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1928 97 years ago — 60 years old

A Danish physician and academic contributed significantly to medical science. Conducted groundbreaking research in the field of cancer, particularly focusing on the role of parasites in developing cancerous tumors. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1926 for discoveries related to the etiology of cancer. Served as a professor at the University of Copenhagen, influencing future generations of researchers through both teaching and mentorship.

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Hughie Jennings

Baseball player and manager; Detroit Tigers
Born
April 2nd, 1869 155 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1928 97 years ago — 58 years old

Active in the late 19th and early 20th century, had a successful career as a professional baseball player and manager. Played primarily as a shortstop and earned a reputation for exceptional skills in the field. Managed the Detroit Tigers, leading the team to several successful seasons. His tenure included participating in multiple pennant races and contributing to the overall development of the franchise during crucial years.

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