What Happened This Year 1820

Born in 1820

John F. Reynolds

American general during Civil War
Born
September 20th, 1820 204 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1863 161 years ago — 42 years old

Served as a Union general in the American Civil War. Commanded the I Corps of the Army of the Potomac. Played a significant role during the Battle of Gettysburg, providing leadership and strategic insights. Died in battle on July 1, 1863, contributing to the Union's efforts in pivotal engagements.

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Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar

Indian philosopher and academic reformer
Born
September 26th, 1820 204 years ago
Died
1891 134 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in 19th century India, focused on social reform and education. Played a crucial role in the promotion of women's rights and education, advocating for the remarriage of widows. Contributed to the development of the Bengali language and literature through his works as a scholar and author. Served in various educational roles, including as the principal of the Sanskrit College in Calcutta. His efforts in education and social reforms laid the groundwork for modern thought in Bengal.

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David Wilber

American politician and public servant
Born
October 5th, 1820 204 years ago
Died
April 1st, 1890 134 years ago — 69 years old

Served as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives representing New York. Held office during the Nineteenth Congress from 1825 to 1827. Contributed to legislative discussions affecting the state and national issues of the time. Involved in local politics and various public service roles throughout a lengthy career.

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Jenny Lind

Swedish soprano acclaimed for opera performances
Born
October 6th, 1820 204 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1887 137 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Sweden, this celebrated soprano gained prominence in the 19th century for remarkable performances in opera, particularly in roles such as the title character in 'Lucia di Lammermoor'. Recognized for her exceptional vocal ability, she undertook extensive tours in Europe and America, captivating audiences with her distinct style and emotive interpretations. Additionally, she starred in various concerts and was dubbed the 'Swedish Nightingale' due to her immense talent and popularity.

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John William Dawson

Canadian geologist and academic
Born
October 13th, 1820 204 years ago
Died
1899 126 years ago — 79 years old

A significant figure in Canadian geology and paleontology, contributed extensively to the understanding of fossil plants. Held the position of Principal at McGill University in Montreal for over 25 years. Published numerous works including 'A Geological Map of Canada' and 'Fossil Plants of the Devonian'. Participated in the establishment of the Geological Survey of Canada, which facilitated important geological research in the country.

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Katherine Plunket

Irish supercentenarian
Born
November 22nd, 1820 204 years ago
Died
1932 93 years ago — 112 years old

Born in 1820, Katherine Plunket lived for 122 years, passing away in 2013. She was recognized as the oldest living person in the world during her final years. Plunket resided in County Kildare, Ireland, and celebrated her extraordinary longevity. Her life spanned significant historical events, including the Great Famine and both World Wars.

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Isaac Todhunter

Mathematician and academic author
Born
November 23rd, 1820 204 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1884 141 years ago — 63 years old

An English mathematician and academic contributed significantly to mathematical education and literature. Authored numerous textbooks on geometry and calculus, influencing teaching methods in the field. Served as the editor for the 'Oxford University Series of Textbooks' and published works that were widely used in universities. Played a crucial role in advancing mathematical comprehension through clear and thorough explanations of complex concepts.

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Rachel Brooks Gleason

Pioneering female medical doctor
Born
November 27th, 1820 204 years ago
Died
1905 120 years ago — 85 years old

Earning a medical degree in 1849, was the fourth woman in the United States to achieve this milestone. Graduated from the New England Female Medical College, which provided education specifically for women in medicine at a time when opportunities were limited. Dedicated career to advancing women's health and education in medicine. Contributed to changing perceptions about women's capabilities in the medical field.

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Friedrich Engels

Philosopher and economist, co-authored The Communist Manifesto
Born
November 28th, 1820 204 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1895 129 years ago — 74 years old

A German-English philosopher and economist, contributed significantly to socialist theory, particularly through collaboration with Karl Marx. Authored several works, exploring topics such as capitalism, class struggle, and labor. Co-authored The Communist Manifesto in 1848, a foundational text for modern socialism. Also wrote The Condition of the Working Class in England, which examined the living conditions of workers in the industrial revolution. The partnership with Marx led to the development of dialectical materialism and the principles of communist theory.

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