What Happened This Year 1817

Born in 1817

Ágoston Trefort

Hungarian jurist and Minister of Education
Born
1817 208 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1888 136 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent jurist and politician in Hungary, focused on educational reform and modernization. Served as the Minister of Education, implementing significant changes in the educational system. Played a critical role in promoting public education and accessibility to learning. Worked towards the establishment of a more structured and efficient education administration.

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Adolphe

Grand Duke of Luxembourg
Born
1817 208 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1905 119 years ago — 88 years old

Ascended to the throne as Grand Duke of Luxembourg in 1890, ruling until death in 1905. Worked on modernizing the Grand Duchy's infrastructure and strengthening its economy. Advocated for social reforms and aimed to establish Luxembourg as a stable and prosperous state. Maintained a neutral stance during international conflicts and promoted diplomacy.

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Raffaello Carboni

Italian-Australian author and poet
Born
1817 208 years ago
Died
October 24th, 1875 149 years ago — 58 years old

An Italian-Australian writer and poet, contributed significantly to literature and poetry. Active during the 19th century, he was involved in the 1854 Eureka Rebellion in Australia, advocating for miners' rights. This event became a pivotal moment in Australian history. Carboni wrote a firsthand account of the rebellion, which provided crucial insights into the events surrounding it. His literary work captured the spirit of the time and influenced subsequent generations.

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Alexandros Koumoundouros

Greek lawyer and Prime Minister
Born
1817 208 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1883 142 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the 56th Prime Minister of Greece, Koumoundouros held office during a politically turbulent period in the 19th century. His legal career began prior to his political engagement, contributing to various legal reforms. Koumoundouros significantly influenced the Greek political landscape, emphasizing national unity and stability. His leadership was marked by efforts to strengthen the central government and address issues of national importance, particularly in relation to Greece's territorial integrity and governance. He interacted with prominent political figures of the time and was involved in discussions surrounding Greece's modernization.

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George Holyoake

English secularist and newspaper editor
Born
1817 208 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1906 119 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent English secularist, co-operator, and newspaper editor, contributed significantly to the secular movement in the 19th century. Established the term 'secularism' to advocate for the separation of religion from public affairs. Edited and published various periodicals, including the Secular Review and the reasoner, which emphasized rational thought and humanist values. Actively involved in cooperative movements and social reforms, promoting mutual cooperation to improve living conditions for working-class individuals.

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Terézia Zakoucs

Hungarian-Slovene author and poet
Born
1817 208 years ago
Died
May 2nd, 1885 139 years ago — 68 years old

A key figure in 19th-century Hungarian and Slovene literature. Wrote extensively in both languages, contributing to the cultural landscape of the time. Authored several works that highlighted social issues and historical narratives. Active in literary circles, fostering connections among writers and intellectuals. Engaged with both the Slovene and Hungarian literary traditions, bridging cultural gaps and promoting understanding between communities.

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Bahá'u'lláh

Persian religious leader, Baháʼí Faith founder
Born
1817 208 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1892 132 years ago — 75 years old

A Persian religious leader established the Baháʼí Faith in the 19th century. After the declaration of his mission in 1863, he advocated for the unity of humanity and promoted principles such as equality, peace, and justice. He faced significant opposition, leading to his exile from Persia and imprisonment in the Ottoman Empire. His writings, including the Kitáb-i-Aqdas, set forth the teachings and laws of the Baháʼí Faith. His efforts laid the foundation for a global religion, emphasizing the importance of oneness among people and the elimination of prejudice.

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William III of the Netherlands

Dutch monarch during turbulent times
Born
1817 208 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 1890 134 years ago — 73 years old

Reigned as King of the Netherlands from 1849 until death. Ascended to the throne following the death of father, King William II. Presided over significant events, including the Belgian Revolution and the ensuing constitutional changes. Advocated for liberal reforms in the Netherlands and was involved in various political conflicts during the 19th century. Efforts to balance power between the monarchy and parliament characterized his reign. Worked towards maintaining Dutch colonial interests during a period of national and international challenges.

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Joseph A. Campbell

Businessman, founded Campbell Soup Company
Born
1817 208 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1900 125 years ago — 83 years old

Founded Campbell Soup Company in 1869, transforming food preservation with canned goods. The company became a leader in the food industry under strategic management. Innovated soup production methods, which influenced consumer habits and dining practices. Expanded the business into a national brand through aggressive marketing and distribution strategies. The introduction of condensed soup became a significant product and is still popular in households today.

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