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.

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Samuel Smiles

Scottish-English author, Self-Help
Born
December 23rd, 1812 212 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1904 120 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.

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Karl Eduard Zachariae von Lingenthal

German lawyer and legal scholar
Born
December 24th, 1812 212 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1894 130 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.

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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.

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Felix Zollicoffer

Confederate general and politician
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1862 163 years ago — 50 years old

Contributed to the Confederate cause during the American Civil War. Held the rank of general and participated in key battles, including the Battle of Mill Springs. Served in the U.S. House of Representatives before the war, representing Tennessee. Was known for his leadership in military strategies and local governance.

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Hong Xiuquan

Chinese rebel leader of Taiping Rebellion
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1864 160 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.

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Norman MacLeod

Scottish minister and author of works
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1872 152 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.

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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.

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William James Linton

Painter and author, produced influential works
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1897 127 years ago — 85 years old

An English-American painter and author, recognized for contributions to art and literature during the 19th century. Engaged in various artistic styles, with focus on landscape and figurative painting. Produced notable literary works, including essays and poetry, while also advocating for social and political reforms. Active in the Pre-Raphaelite movement, established a significant presence in both the United States and England. Played a role in promoting the arts through various organizations and initiatives, enhancing the cultural landscape of the period.

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