What Happened This Year 1831

Born in 1831

Savitribai Phule

Indian educator and social reformer
Born
January 3rd, 1831 194 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1897 128 years ago — 66 years old

An influential educator and social reformer, this individual contributed significantly to women's education and social reform in India during the 19th century. Established the first school for girls in Pune in 1848, challenging prevailing social norms. Actively worked to promote education for all, particularly marginalized communities, and founded the first women's organization in India. Published several poems focusing on social justice and women's rights, promoting the need for equality. Played a pivotal role in addressing issues of caste and gender discrimination.

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Heinrich von Stephan

German postal reformer and UPU founder
Born
January 7th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
1897 128 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent figure in the international postal system, a German postman played a crucial role in founding the Universal Postal Union in 1874. This organization standardized international mail services, improving communication across borders. His tenure as the Director of the German Postal Service was marked by significant reforms, leading to the modernization of postal operations in Germany. Emphasizing the importance of efficient postal services, he advocated for international cooperation among nations to enhance mail delivery systems globally.

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George Kerferd

Australian politician; 10th Premier of Victoria
Born
January 21st, 1831 194 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1889 135 years ago — 58 years old

Served as the 10th Premier of Victoria from 1870 to 1871. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Victorian Government and contributed to key legislative developments during his tenure. Actively involved in the growth of education and public works in the state, advocating for infrastructure improvements.

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Prince Christian of Schleswig-Holstein

Nobleman and Danish Royal Family Member
Born
January 22nd, 1831 194 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1917 107 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1831, became a significant figure in Danish aristocracy and the European royal circles. Involved in the political and social affairs of Denmark, often linked with the Schleswig-Holstein Question, which revolved around the duchies' status. Held titles and properties significant to the Danish monarchy, contributing to the royal lineage. Participated in diplomatic events and social gatherings that shaped the perceptions of the Danish royal family during the 19th century.

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Oliver Ames

American Governor and financier
Born
February 4th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
1895 130 years ago — 64 years old

Served as the 35th Governor of Massachusetts from 1887 to 1890. Engaged in the iron business and was instrumental in the establishment of a significant railroad company. Contributed to the Republican Party's development during his political career. Advocated for various infrastructure improvements while in office.

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John Aaron Rawlins

American General and Secretary of War
Born
February 13th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
1869 156 years ago — 38 years old

Born in 1831, served as a general in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Played a critical role in major battles, including the Siege of Vicksburg where commanded the 1st Division of the Army of the Tennessee. Appointed as the 29th United States Secretary of War in 1865, serving under President Ulysses S. Grant until his death in 1869. Worked on military oversight during Reconstruction and the Indian Wars.

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Nikolai Leskov

Russian author known for 'Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk'
Born
February 16th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1895 130 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1831, this individual emerged as a prominent Russian author, playwright, and journalist. His literary career encompassed a range of genres, showing a keen interest in the lives of ordinary people in Russia. The most notable work, 'Lady Macbeth of Mtsensk', provided a realist portrayal of passion and societal norms, later inspiring adaptations in opera and film. This person contributed significantly to Russian literature during the 19th century, often exploring themes such as morality and social injustice.

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Hendrik Willem Mesdag

Dutch painter of seascapes
Born
February 23rd, 1831 194 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1915 109 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1831, this Dutch painter specialized in seascapes and marine subjects, capturing the beauty of the North Sea. He became prominent in the art scene and was a significant figure in the Hague School. His most acclaimed work, 'The Panorama of the Scheveningen', is a monumental circular painting that provides an immersive experience of the beach at Scheveningen. In addition to his painting career, he contributed to the establishment of the Mesdag Collection, which showcases 19th-century Dutch art. His works reflect a strong sense of atmosphere and color, establishing him as one of the notable landscape painters of his time.

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Leo von Caprivi

German politician and chancellor
Born
February 24th, 1831 194 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1899 126 years ago — 67 years old

Served as a German general and politician, Caprivi held the position of Chancellor of Germany from 1890 to 1894. His tenure was marked by a focus on social and economic reforms, steering the country through a period of political transformation. Caprivi sought to improve relations with foreign powers and initiated various domestic policies aimed at modernizing Germany's economy. Prior to his chancellorship, he had a distinguished military career and played significant roles in various campaigns, contributing to Germany's military strategies.

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