Born in 1814
Esther Hobart Morris
A pioneering figure in the legal field, served as a justice of the peace in Wyoming. Played a significant role in women's suffrage, advocating for women's rights and their participation in the legal system. With the passage of women's suffrage in Wyoming, became the first woman to hold a judicial office in the United States in 1870. Her contributions helped establish a precedent for women's involvement in public service and the judiciary.
Continue ReadingJohn C. Pemberton
Served as a general in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. Commanded the Army of Mississippi and distinguished himself in battles such as Shiloh and Vicksburg. Surrendered to Union forces in July 1863 at Vicksburg, which marked a significant turning point in the Civil War. Following the war, Pemberton faced challenges reintegrating into civilian life. His defense of Vicksburg has been studied extensively in military strategy.
Continue ReadingHenri Nestlé
A German businessman established a company that revolutionized the food industry. In 1866, relocated to Switzerland where the company began to produce infant formula. The creation of a milk-based food product in 1867 addressed the issues of infant malnutrition. This innovation led to the establishment of Nestlé, which expanded globally and diversified its product line to include a variety of food and beverage items.
Continue ReadingAnders Jonas Ångström
Born in 1814, a physicist and astronomer contributed significantly to the understanding of light and spectroscopy. Ångström developed a method for measuring the wavelengths of spectral lines. He created the spectral classification system and was the first to accurately measure ultraviolet and infrared light. His work laid the foundation for modern spectroscopy, facilitating advancements in various scientific fields.
Continue ReadingCharlotte Fowler Wells
A phrenologist and publisher in the United States, significant contributions were made to the field of phrenology. Published works that detailed theories connecting personality traits with skull shapes. Engaged in public speaking to promote phrenological ideas and advocated for women's rights within the context of scientific inquiry.
Continue ReadingJames Roosevelt Bayley
Served as the first archbishop of Newark, New Jersey. Played a significant role in expanding the Catholic Church in the United States during the 19th century. Held various positions within the church, eventually becoming the Bishop of Newark in 1881. Oversaw the establishment of several parishes, schools, and charitable institutions.
Continue ReadingSheridan Le Fanu
A prominent author in the 19th century, contributed significantly to the genre of Gothic fiction. Wrote several influential works including 'Carmilla,' a groundbreaking vampire novella that explored themes of sexuality and identity. Engaged with the supernatural, often weaving intricate plots that captivated readers. Also served as an editor for various literary publications, helping to shape contemporary literature.
Continue ReadingErnst Curtius
Born in 1814, contributions to archaeology included extensive work in Greece, especially in the study of ancient sites. Served as a professor at the University of Berlin, where emphasis on classical studies flourished. Conducted significant excavations at Olympia and wrote on the history of art, contributing to the understanding of ancient Greek culture and history. His scholarly publications became essential texts in the field, enhancing knowledge of classical antiquity.
Continue ReadingJames Joseph Sylvester
A mathematician and academic, contributions included significant work in matrix theory, invariant theory, and group theory. Held a professorship at the University of Oxford and later at Johns Hopkins University. Sylvester was instrumental in establishing the field of matrix algebra and made substantial contributions to number theory. He founded the American Journal of Mathematics and has a lasting legacy in mathematics education.
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