What Happened This Year 1834

Historical Events from This Year 1834 (View all 16)

Economics & Industry

Establishment of the Zollverein Customs Union

January 1st, 1834 191 years ago

The Zollverein customs union was established in 1834, creating a significant economic alliance among various German states. This initiative aimed to abolish internal tariffs and create a unified customs area, promoting free trade and economic cooperation. The union facilitated the movement of goods and people between member states, enhancing economic prosperity and laying the groundwork for future political unifications. Importantly, Prussia played a crucial role in spearheading this customs reform, attracting numerous smaller states to join the union, which ultimately included most of Germany.

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Politics & Government

York Becomes Toronto, Uniting a Community

March 6th, 1834 191 years ago

Incorporation of York as Toronto marked a pivotal point in local governance. This transition was facilitated by changing demographics and aspirations for a more developed urban identity. The name change reflected the evolving character of the region, as it aimed to position itself as a significant urban center. This brought about an impetus for economic growth and urban planning, transforming the city into a focal point of progress in Upper Canada.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Tolpuddle Martyrs Sentenced to Transportation

March 18th, 1834 190 years ago

Six farm labourers from Tolpuddle, Dorset, were sentenced to transportation to Australia for forming a trade union to protest against wage cuts. Their actions were deemed illegal by the authorities, who enforced harsh penalties as a deterrent against organized labor movements. This case ignited broader debates on workers' rights and unionization in the 19th century.

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Military & Warfare

Decisive Battle Concludes the Liberal Wars

May 16th, 1834 190 years ago

The Battle of Asseiceira marked a critical turning point in the Liberal Wars of Portugal, leading to a definitive victory for the liberal forces. Fought near the village of Asseiceira, this battle saw the loyalist army of Dom Miguel face off against the liberals led by Dom Pedro IV. The engagement showcased strategic maneuvers, with the liberals utilizing superior artillery and cavalry, ultimately forcing the withdrawing of the Miguelite forces, which solidified the liberal constitutional monarchy in Portugal.

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Politics & Government

Seizure of Religious Properties in Portugal

May 30th, 1834 190 years ago

Joaquim António de Aguiar, the Minister of Justice, enacted a law to seize all religious properties from Catholic orders, including convents and monasteries. This significant legislation marked a radical shift in the relationship between the state and the Catholic Church in Portugal. The measure aimed to diminish the power and wealth of religious institutions, furthering the liberal reform agenda. Aguiar's actions earned him the infamous nickname 'The Friar-Killer' as he directly challenged the influence of the clergy in Portuguese society and governance.

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Crime & Law

The Looting of Safed Unfolds

June 15th, 1834 190 years ago

In June 1834, Safed, a city in Galilee, faced a brutal attack led by local Arab forces, incited by riots and unrest in the region. The attackers, primarily motivated by anti-Jewish sentiments, targeted the Jewish inhabitants, leading to widespread devastation. Houses were ransacked, and valuables were stolen as fear overwhelmed the community. The local Jewish population sought refuge and survival amidst the chaos, while British officials in nearby areas were alerted to the mounting violence and called for assistance to restore order and protect lives.

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Born in 1834 (View all 70)

Ludovic Halévy

French author and playwright of operas
Born
January 1st, 1834 191 years ago
Died
1908 117 years ago — 74 years old

An influential French author and playwright, contributed significantly to the literary and theatrical scenes of the 19th century. Collaborated with composer Jacques Offenbach, resulting in the creation of several operettas. Authored the libretto for the famous opera 'La Vie parisienne'. Produced various works that reflected contemporary social themes and entertained audiences with wit and humor. His contributions to theater extended into the realm of novels and criticism, solidifying a reputation as a prominent literary figure.

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William John Wills

Explorer and surgeon of the Victorian era
Born
January 5th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
1861 164 years ago — 27 years old

An English surgeon and explorer, contributions included participating in the first successful expedition to cross Australia from south to north. Joined the Victorian Exploring Expedition led by Robert O'Hara Burke in 1860. The journey faced extreme hardships, including harsh weather and scarce supplies. Wills became a key figure in the ill-fated venture, which ultimately ended in tragedy. The expedition lost many members, including Wills, while seeking relief and returning to their starting point. Posthumously, he gained recognition for the challenges faced during the expedition and the ultimate sacrifice made in pursuit of exploration.

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Johann Philipp Reis

German physicist who invented the Reis telephone
Born
January 7th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1874 151 years ago — 40 years old

Contributed to the field of telecommunications through the invention of an early version of the telephone. Developed the Reis telephone in 1860, which utilized electromagnetic acoustic principles to transmit sound over wires. Worked as a physicist and held academic positions, emphasizing the importance of electrical engineering and acoustics. Engaged in various experiments that paved the way for future advancements in communication technologies.

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John Dalberg-Acton

Historian and politician, Baron Acton
Born
January 10th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
1902 123 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1834, this Italian-English historian and politician served in various capacities throughout a distinguished career. Acton advocated for liberalism and was a prominent figure in the realm of historical writing. His most significant work includes the multi-volume 'History of Freedom in Antiquity'. Acton was also known for his influential essays and held a strong interest in the moral implications of history. His writings explored the intertwining of liberty and history, emphasizing the importance of authentic sources and critical analysis.

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Duncan Gillies

Scottish-Australian politician, Premier
Born
January 14th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1903 121 years ago — 69 years old

A Scottish-Australian politician served as the 14th Premier of Victoria from 1880 to 1881. Held significant roles in Victorian politics and contributed to various government initiatives. Played a crucial part in the development of public infrastructure and education during his tenure. Worked in promoting transportation and agricultural reforms.

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Samuel Arza Davenport

American politician and lawyer
Born
January 15th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1911 113 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1834, Davenport practiced law and became an influential political figure in his state. He served in various capacities, including as a member of the legislature. Davenport’s contributions to the legal framework and political discourse of his era contributed to the shaping of local governance. His career was marked by a commitment to public service and the advancement of legal standards.

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People Who Died in 1834 (View all 30)

Henry Bathurst

English politician and 3rd Earl Bathurst
Born
May 22nd, 1762 262 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1794 230 years ago — 32 years old

A prominent English politician, held various governmental positions throughout the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Served as Secretary of State for War and the Colonies from 1812 to 1827. Played a key role in the administration during the Napoleonic Wars and contributed to policies related to the British colonies. Inherited the earldom in 1834 and took an active interest in national matters until his death in 1834.

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William Grenville

English politician and Prime Minister
Born
October 25th, 1759 265 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1834 191 years ago — 74 years old

One served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 1806 to 1807. Actively participated in the House of Commons and contributed to various legislative reforms. Active in political life for decades, focusing on foreign policy and domestic issues. Played a crucial role in the formation of the Whig party and opposition to the policies of the Tory administration. Later became a member of the House of Lords as the 1st Baron Grenville.

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Jean Nicolas Pierre Hachette

French mathematician and academic
Born
May 6th, 1769 255 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1834 191 years ago — 64 years old

Contributed significantly to geometry and mathematics education in France. Hachette formulated the concept of a geometric mean and published influential works in the field, including 'Geometrie', which facilitated the understanding of geometrical principles for students. Worked as a professor at the Lycée Louis-le-Grand, engaging in educational reform and advocating for improvements in the teaching of mathematics. His efforts played a key role in shaping the curriculum of mathematics in French schools during the 19th century.

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Giovanni Aldini

Physicist and academic from Italy
Born
April 10th, 1762 262 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1834 191 years ago — 71 years old

An Italian physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the study of electricity and galvanism. Developed techniques for applying electrical currents to living tissues. Conducted public demonstrations showcasing the effects of galvanism, including the revival of the apparently dead. Pioneered research in bioelectricity, laying foundational work for future exploration in the field. Served as a professor at the University of Bologna and made notable contributions to the understanding of sensory organs through experimental science.

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Richard Lemon Lander

Explorer of West Africa
Born
1804 221 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1834 191 years ago — 30 years old

An explorer conducted significant expeditions in West Africa during the early 19th century. Lander explored the Niger River and its tributaries, gathering valuable geographic and cultural insights. He contributed to the mapping and understanding of the region, significantly improving knowledge of West African societies and environments. Lander's journeys included important interactions with local leaders and tribes, which provided a deeper awareness of the diversity within the continent. His explorations played a crucial role in subsequent British interests in Africa.

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Friedrich Schleiermacher

German philosopher and theologian
Born
November 21st, 1768 256 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1834 191 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent figure in the development of modern theology and philosophy, this individual contributed significantly to the fields of hermeneutics and religious thought. His work, particularly "On Religion: Speeches to Its Cultured Despisers," argued for the relevance of religious experience against rationalism. The philosopher introduced ideas that sought to bridge faith and reason, emphasizing the importance of individual experience in understanding faith. His influence extended into the realm of modern existentialism and phenomenology.

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