What Happened This Year 1826

Born in 1826

Oscar James Dunn

Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana
Born
1826 199 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1871 154 years ago — 45 years old

Served as the Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana from 1868 until 1871, becoming one of the first African Americans to hold statewide office in the U.S. Engaged in efforts to promote civil rights and improve the lives of African Americans in the post-Civil War South. Oversaw various initiatives aimed at education and public health during his tenure. His political career occurred during a transformative period in American history, marked by significant social and political changes.

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Spotted Elk

American tribal leader at Wounded Knee
Born
1826 199 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1890 134 years ago — 64 years old

Spotted Elk was a Lakota leader who played a key role in the events leading up to the Wounded Knee Massacre in 1890. As a chief, he guided his people during a tumultuous period characterized by conflict between Native American tribes and the U.S. government. In December 1890, he led a group of Lakota to seek refuge in a fort, seeking protection from the militia. This decision ultimately resulted in a tragic confrontation that led to the deaths of many Lakota people and soldiers. Spotted Elk was significant in his efforts to maintain the traditions and rights of his tribe amidst increasing pressures from expansionist policies.

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Alfred Ely Beach

American publisher and engineer of transit system
Born
1826 199 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1896 129 years ago — 70 years old

Conceived and constructed the Beach Pneumatic Transit in New York City, an underground transportation system. The transit system utilized a tunnel and a unique pneumatic propulsion method. Although the project faced financial challenges and opposition, it garnered significant attention during its operation in the 1870s. Beach also contributed to the development of the magazine Scientific American, enhancing public interest in science and technology.

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Andreas Anagnostakis

Greek ophthalmologist and educator
Born
1826 199 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1897 128 years ago — 71 years old

One of the pioneers in ophthalmology, contributed significantly to medical education in Greece. Played a key role in advancing the field of eye care and surgery. Was involved in various medical organizations and promoted ophthalmic practices. His work laid the foundation for future developments in the treatment of eye diseases.

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Muhammad Sharif Pasha

Egyptian politician and Prime Minister
Born
1826 199 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1887 138 years ago — 61 years old

Served as the 2nd Prime Minister of Egypt in the late 19th century. Held office from 1879 to 1882, focusing on modernizing the Egyptian administration and military. Advocated for educational reform and improved relations with European powers during a turbulent period in Egyptian politics. Oversaw significant developments in infrastructure and governance, shaping the political landscape of Egypt in the wake of colonial pressures.

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Stanislao Cannizzaro

Italian chemist, Avogadro’s principle proponent
Born
1826 199 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1910 115 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent chemist contributed significantly to the field of atomic theory and molecular weights. Cannizzaro established the Cannizzaro reaction, which allows for the synthesis of aldehydes from alkali metal salts of carboxylic acids. Participated in the 1860 Karlsruhe Congress, where principles of atomic weight were discussed. Cannizzaro’s work helped clarify the importance of both atomic and molecular weights for chemical sciences and provided a basis for subsequent developments in chemistry.

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Allen Wright

Principal Chief of the Choctaw Nation
Born
1826 199 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1885 140 years ago — 59 years old

Served as the Principal Chief of the Choctaw Nation from 1866 to 1870. Proposed the name 'Oklahoma,' derived from the Choctaw words 'okra' and 'umma,' which translates to 'Territory of the Red People.' During the leadership, advocated for improvements in education and infrastructure within the Nation. His leadership coincided with a period of change and adjustment following the Civil War.

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