What Happened This Year 1825

Born in 1825

Charles Griffin

American general during Civil War
Born
December 18th, 1825 199 years ago
Died
1876 149 years ago — 51 years old

Served as a Union general in the American Civil War. Commanded troops during significant battles such as the Battle of Gettysburg and the Battle of the Wilderness. Held the rank of Brigadier General and contributed to several military campaigns in the war.

Continue Reading

Mariano Ignacio Prado

Peruvian general and President
Born
December 18th, 1825 199 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1901 124 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent military figure and politician, this individual served as President of Peru during critical periods in the nation's history. Governance occurred during two separate terms, with significant focus on modernization and infrastructure development. A general by training, participated in various military campaigns to maintain national stability. Held the presidency during the War of the Pacific, which shaped relations with neighboring countries. Efforts included reforms that addressed economic and social issues within Peru.

Continue Reading

George Frederick Bristow

Composer and violinist
Born
December 19th, 1825 199 years ago
Died
1898 127 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1825, a prominent American violinist and composer contributed significantly to the 19th-century music scene. Bristow studied under notable figures and became known for his orchestral works, chamber music, and operas. He had a strong connection with the New York music community and held various musical roles, including directing and conducting. Bristow's compositions often reflected American themes and included influences from European styles. His opera 'Rip Van Winkle' garnered attention for its incorporation of American folklore and musical elements, while his symphonic works added to the romantic repertoire.

Continue Reading

Stephen F. Chadwick

American lawyer and 5th Governor of Oregon
Born
December 25th, 1825 199 years ago
Died
1895 130 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the 5th Governor of Oregon from 1862 to 1866. Prior to his gubernatorial role, practiced law and held various political positions. Contributed to the development of state policies during a period of significant growth in Oregon. Involved in the expansion of infrastructure and education within the state.

Continue Reading

Samuel Newitt Wood

American lawyer and politician
Born
December 30th, 1825 199 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1891 134 years ago — 65 years old

Served as a prominent lawyer and politician in the mid-19th century. Held the position of U.S. Congressman from 1875 to 1877, representing the state of California. Played a significant role in local politics and legal matters. Contributed to the development of legislation relevant to the growing needs of the region during a transformative period in American history.

Continue Reading

John Torrington

Sailor and Arctic explorer
Born
1825 200 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1846 179 years ago — 21 years old

Torrington served as a sailor and was part of the ill-fated 1845 Franklin Expedition to find the Northwest Passage. The expedition aimed to explore and map northern Canada while connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Torrington and his crew became trapped in ice in the Arctic. They ultimately perished over the winter of 1845-1846. The circumstances of their demise highlighted the severe challenges faced in Arctic exploration during that era.

Continue Reading

William McGonagall

Scottish poet notorious for bad verse
Born
1825 200 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1902 122 years ago — 77 years old

A poet and actor, recognized for writing verse that has been often critiqued as some of the worst in the English language. McGonagall's works included a range of poems, many focusing on significant events and figures of his time. He performed recitals of his poetry in various venues, showcasing his often humorous and unintentional comedic style. His passion for writing and performing brought attention to his unique style, although it was not widely appreciated in his lifetime. The Poet's contributions to the literary world continue to generate discussion and analysis today.

Continue Reading

John Quincy Marr

American Civil War captain
Born
1825 200 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1861 164 years ago — 36 years old

Served as a captain in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. Participated in the First Battle of Manassas where he led his unit into combat. Marr was killed in action, becoming one of the first Confederate officers to die in the war. His leadership during the early stages of the conflict exemplified the dedication of Southern military leaders.

Continue Reading

Angus MacAskill

Giant Scottish-Canadian showman
Born
1825 200 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1863 162 years ago — 38 years old

Born in Scotland, a giant stood at over seven feet tall. Emigrated to Canada and became a prominent showman and sideshow attraction. MacAskill traveled across North America showcasing impressive feats of strength and size, earning the title of the tallest man in recorded history at the time. He exhibited strength by lifting heavy objects and performing unique acts that captivated audiences. His reputation spread, leading to numerous appearances in circuses and exhibitions, contributing to the fascination with human oddities in the 19th century. Later, he settled in Nova Scotia and became a respected member of the community until death in 1863.

Continue Reading