What Happened This Year 1812

Born in 1812

Henri-Alexandre Wallon

Historian and French statesman
Born
December 23rd, 1812 212 years ago
Died
1904 121 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent historian and statesman, contributed significantly to the development of educational policy in France. Advocated for universal education and worked on several reform projects. Engaged in politics and served in various capacities, including serving as a deputy in the National Assembly. His scholarly work focused on the history of education and political thought, influencing educational systems and practices in France. His interest in philosophical and educational issues led to several notable publications that explored the relationship between politics and education.

Continue Reading

Samuel Smiles

Scottish-English author, Self-Help
Born
December 23rd, 1812 212 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1904 121 years ago — 91 years old

An author and social reformer, contributed significantly to the genre of self-help literature. Published the influential book 'Self-Help' in 1859, which emphasized personal responsibility and the importance of hard work. Engaged in public life by advocating for education and social improvements. His writings inspired individuals to pursue self-improvement and resilience in the face of adversity. Served as a notable figure in the Victorian era with a legacy that influenced many later self-help authors.

Continue Reading

Karl Eduard Zachariae von Lingenthal

German lawyer and legal scholar
Born
December 24th, 1812 212 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1894 131 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1812, a prominent lawyer and jurist contributed extensively to the development of German law. Engaged in legal academia and served in various judicial capacities. Authored key legal texts that became essential references in German jurisprudence. His works focussed on civil law and administrative justice, shaping contemporary understanding and application of these fields within Germany.

Continue Reading

Georg Hermann Nicolai

Architect and academic in Germany
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1881 143 years ago — 69 years old

Contributed significantly to architectural design and education in Germany during the 19th century. Served as a professor at the Technical University of Berlin, influencing the next generation of architects. Involved in various architectural projects that emphasized innovation and modernization in construction techniques. Engaged in discussions around the importance of architecture as a cultural and social component in urban environments.

Continue Reading

Norman MacLeod

Scottish minister and author of works
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1872 153 years ago — 60 years old

A Scottish minister and author, contributed to religious literature and served as a minister in various congregations. Played a key role in promoting critical thinking in theology. Authored several works that provided insight into faith and the human condition. Mental health and spiritual well-being were recurring themes in writings. His pastoral work and publications left a lasting influence on 19th-century Scottish religious thought.

Continue Reading

Alfred Thomas Agate

American painter and illustrator of nature
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1846 179 years ago — 34 years old

Worked primarily as a painter and illustrator, contributing significantly to the documentation of American landscapes and wildlife. Involved with scientific expeditions, provided detailed depictions of fauna and flora. Collaborated with naturalists and explorers during the mid-19th century, producing illustrations that enhanced scientific understanding of the natural world. Exhibited works at prestigious institutions, gaining recognition for the precision and detail in botanical and zoological illustrations.

Continue Reading

Hong Xiuquan

Chinese rebel leader of Taiping Rebellion
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1864 161 years ago — 52 years old

A significant figure in 19th-century China, led a massive civil war against the Qing Dynasty, aiming to establish a new kingdom based on a unique interpretation of Christianity. Emerged as the leader of the Taiping Rebellion, which lasted from 1850 to 1864 and sought to reform social and political structures in China. His vision centered around eliminating oppressive practices and replacing them with his version of the Heavenly Kingdom. The rebellion resulted in one of the deadliest conflicts in history, significantly altering the power balance in China and leading to millions of casualties before its suppression.

Continue Reading

Kaspar Hauser

German feral child with mysterious origins
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1833 191 years ago — 21 years old

A child appeared in Nuremberg, Germany, in 1828, claiming to have grown up in isolation. He was unable to speak or read and had limited understanding of the world. Theories arose regarding his origins, including that he was of noble birth or held captive. As time passed, he began to learn and communicate, attracting attention from scholars and the public. His life ended abruptly when he was found stabbed in 1833, leading to speculation about the circumstances surrounding his death and the true nature of his life. This case received significant media coverage and spurred discussions about human development.

Continue Reading

Cilibi Moise

Journalist and Author from Moldova
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1870 155 years ago — 58 years old

Contributed significantly to Moldavian and Romanian journalism during the 19th century. Engaged in writing articles that addressed social and political issues of the time, promoting literary and cultural advancements. Authored works that explored themes of nationalism, identity, and societal reform. Played a role in the development of modern Romanian literature through innovative storytelling and critical thinking.

Continue Reading