What Happened This Year 1803

Born in 1803

Edward Dickinson

American politician and lawyer
Born
January 1st, 1803 222 years ago
Died
1874 151 years ago — 71 years old

Served as a prominent politician in Massachusetts during the 19th century. Engaged in law practice and held various political offices. Contributed to the local government and community through public service. Notably, served in the Massachusetts House of Representatives and was a state senator. Fathered the renowned poet Emily Dickinson, influencing her literary development.

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Guglielmo Libri Carucci dalla Sommaja

Italian mathematician and academic
Born
January 2nd, 1803 222 years ago
Died
1869 156 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1803, a mathematician and academic contributed significantly to mathematics, particularly in the fields of algebra and calculus. An advocate for mathematical education, held a position at the University of Pisa, where efforts focused on improving curriculum and teaching methods. Engaged in research that enhanced the understanding of differential equations and their applications. Left a legacy through published works that included papers and textbooks, influencing the academic landscape in Italy and beyond.

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Douglas William Jerrold

English journalist and playwright
Born
January 3rd, 1803 222 years ago
Died
June 8th, 1857 167 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 1803, this individual made significant contributions to English literature as a journalist and playwright. He worked for various publications, including the 'Morning Chronicle' and 'Punch', where satirical journalism thrived. As a playwright, he penned numerous successful plays, with 'Black-Eyed Susan' becoming a staple in the British theatre repertoire. This work garnered widespread acclaim and was performed frequently during the 19th century.

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Henri Herz

Austrian pianist and composer, concertos
Born
January 6th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1888 137 years ago — 84 years old

Residency in Paris led to prominence as a pianist and composer. Established a successful concert career across Europe, showcasing technical prowess and lyrical style. Contributed significantly to the piano repertoire with numerous compositions, including concertos and chamber works. Founded a piano school in Paris that trained many notable musicians.

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Marjorie Fleming

Scottish poet and author of verses.
Born
January 15th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
1811 214 years ago — 8 years old

Born in 1803 in Scotland, a poet and author contributed significantly to the literary world at a young age. Her works included poignant and reflective poetry that resonated with the themes of innocence and childhood. Despite her brief life, she gained attention for the emotional depth of her writings. The publication of her collected poems posthumously showcased her talents and introduced her to a wider audience. She died in 1811 at the age of eight, yet her writings continue to be celebrated for their insight and precocious ability.

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Sarah Helen Whitman

Poet and essayist with notable works
Born
January 19th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
1878 147 years ago — 75 years old

An American poet and essayist, produced significant literary contributions in the 19th century. Played a key role in the literary circles in Providence, Rhode Island. Engaged romantically with Edgar Allan Poe, which influenced both personal and literary trajectories. Published works include poetry collections and essays that reflect philosophical and romantic themes. Recognized for her eloquent style and depth of thought, she became a prominent literary figure of her time.

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Eunice Hale Waite Cobb

Activist and public speaker
Born
January 27th, 1803 222 years ago
Died
1880 145 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent writer and public speaker, contributions focused on women's rights and social reform. Established and participated in various organizations advocating for the education and empowerment of women. Wrote extensively, addressing societal issues and encouraging women to pursue public life. Engaged in community efforts to promote equality and justice.

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Albert Sidney Johnston

American general during the Civil War
Born
February 2nd, 1803 222 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1862 162 years ago — 59 years old

Served as a general in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. Held the position of a senior commander in the Western Theater. Commanded Confederate forces at the Battle of Shiloh, where he was killed in action. His leadership and military strategies were influential in early battles of the war.

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Thomas Field Gibson

Manufacturer and welfare advocate
Born
March 3rd, 1803 222 years ago
Died
1889 136 years ago — 86 years old

An English manufacturer, contributions centered around aiding the welfare of Spitalfields silk weavers during the 19th century. Focused on improving working conditions and providing support to those in the silk weaving community. Engaged in various initiatives that addressed the social and economic challenges faced by the weavers, fostering a sense of solidarity among them. Emphasized ethical manufacturing practices and advocated for the rights and health of workers in the silk industry.

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