What Happened This Year 1813

Born in 1813

Lydia Hamilton Smith

African-American businesswoman
Born
February 14th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1884 141 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1813, a prominent African-American businesswoman engaged in various entrepreneurial endeavors. Operated a successful boarding house that catered to Black travelers and significant figures during the Civil War, providing accommodations to soldiers and officers. Became a key figure in local business circles and contributed to the economic stability of the community. Actively supported efforts related to the abolition of slavery and the empowerment of African-Americans during her lifetime.

Continue Reading

Joseph P. Bradley

American lawyer and Supreme Court Justice
Born
March 14th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1892 133 years ago — 78 years old

Served as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court from 1870 to 1892. Appointed by President Ulysses S. Grant, contributed to significant legal precedents and decisions during a transformative period in U.S. history. Participated in cases involving civil rights, commerce, and government powers. Also served as a U.S. Circuit Judge for the Third Circuit and was involved in various legal capacities throughout his career.

Continue Reading

John Snow

Epidemiologist known for cholera studies
Born
March 15th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1858 166 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent figure in the development of modern epidemiology. Conducted groundbreaking research on cholera during the 19th century. Demonstrated the link between contaminated water and the spread of the disease in London. His mapping of cholera cases led to significant public health improvements. Also contributed to anesthesia and surgery practices.

Continue Reading

Gaëtan de Rochebouët

French Prime Minister and statesman
Born
March 16th, 1813 211 years ago
Died
1899 126 years ago — 86 years old

Served as Prime Minister of France during a critical period in the mid-19th century. Involved in various governmental roles, contributing to political developments and reforms. Participated in debates surrounding major national issues and played a significant role in shaping public policy.

Continue Reading

Christian Friedrich Hebbel

German poet and playwright, notable works
Born
March 18th, 1813 211 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1863 161 years ago — 50 years old

Born in 1813, a German poet and playwright contributed significantly to 19th-century literature. Wrote several notable works, including the plays 'Maria Magdalena' and 'Hereditary Witches'. His poetry reflects strong romantic and existential themes, exploring human emotions and social issues. Hebbel's work showcased innovative use of language and structure in dramatic arts, influencing the evolution of German theater.

Continue Reading

David Livingstone

Scottish missionary and explorer of Africa
Born
March 19th, 1813 211 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1873 151 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1813, a Scottish missionary and explorer conducted extensive explorations in Africa during the 19th century. Worked to promote Christianity and trade in Africa, while also advocating against the slave trade. Spent many years in southern and central Africa where he mapped uncharted territories and sought the source of the Nile River. His travels and writings brought European attention to the continent's geography and cultures. Died during an expedition in Zambia in 1873, and his legacy includes inspiring future explorers and missionaries.

Continue Reading

Félix María Zuloaga

Mexican general and interim president
Born
March 31st, 1813 211 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1898 127 years ago — 84 years old

A military leader held the office of interim president of Mexico during a tumultuous period in the country's history. Zuloaga served as a general in the Mexican army and was involved in various military conflicts that shaped the nation's political landscape. His presidency was marked by a lack of constitutional legitimacy, reflecting the struggles for power that characterized 19th century Mexico. Zuloaga's tenure was part of a broader conflict known as the Reform War, highlighting the tensions between liberal and conservative factions within the country. After resigning, continued to influence political and military affairs until death.

Continue Reading

James McCune Smith

African-American physician and author
Born
April 18th, 1813 211 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1865 159 years ago — 52 years old

Born in 1813, a pioneering African-American physician and apothecary practiced medicine in New York City. Received a medical degree from the University of Glasgow, becoming the first African American to earn a medical degree in the United States. Actively participated in abolitionist movements and published works addressing social issues, including healthcare disparities and racial inequality. Contributed significantly to the discourse on race and medicine in the 19th century.

Continue Reading

Stephen A. Douglas

American politician and educator
Born
April 23rd, 1813 211 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1861 163 years ago — 48 years old

This individual served as the 7th Secretary of State of Illinois. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, this individual later became a U.S. Senator from Illinois. Played a significant role in the politics of the 1850s, including advocacy for the expansion of slavery into the territories. Engaged in the historic Lincoln-Douglas debates in 1858 against Abraham Lincoln, which highlighted issues of slavery and states' rights. Also promoted the passage of the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1854, which allowed territories to decide on the legality of slavery.

Continue Reading