What Happened This Year 1837

Born in 1837

Thomas Playford II

Politician, 17th Premier of South Australia
Born
November 26th, 1837 187 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1915 109 years ago — 77 years old

Served as the 17th Premier of South Australia from 1938 to 1941. Held various political positions, including Minister of Education and Minister of Industry. Contributed to the development of South Australian labor policies and infrastructure projects. His tenure included significant challenges posed by World War II and economic issues of the time.

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John Wesley Hyatt

American engineer and inventor of celluloid
Born
November 28th, 1837 187 years ago
Died
1920 105 years ago — 83 years old

An American engineer contributed significantly to the invention of synthetic materials. Developed the first practical process for producing celluloid in 1868, which became widely used in various applications, including photography and billiard balls. The innovation in celluloid provided an alternative to ivory and other materials. Hyatt also invented a number of devices related to the production and use of this plastic, which played a vital role in the growing industries of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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Émile Waldteufel

French composer of waltzes and operettas
Born
December 9th, 1837 187 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1915 110 years ago — 77 years old

A pianist and conductor from France, celebrated for composing a variety of waltzes and operettas during the late 19th century. Waldteufel gained prominence with works that blended catchy melodies and light orchestration. His most famous piece, "Les Patineurs," made a significant mark in the world of light classical music and continues to be widely performed today. He served as the conductor for several prominent orchestras and became a respected figure in the Paris musical scene, collaborating with various notable artists and organizations. His contributions to the waltz genre cemented his place in music history.

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E. W. Bullinger

Theologian and author of works on prophecy
Born
December 15th, 1837 187 years ago
Died
1913 112 years ago — 76 years old

An English minister and theologian, contributed significantly to biblical scholarship and interpretation. Best known for work on the companion Bible, which includes extensive notes on scripture and prophecy. Advocated for a literal interpretation of the Bible and emphasized the significance of prophetic events. His writings focused on dispensationalism and the relationship between the Old and New Testaments.

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Empress Elisabeth of Austria

Austrian empress and reform advocate
Born
December 24th, 1837 187 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1898 126 years ago — 60 years old

Born into a Bavarian duchy, this figure married Emperor Franz Joseph I at a young age. The marriage faced numerous challenges, including political pressures and personal struggles. Known for her beauty and fashion, the empress withdrew from official duties and often traveled to escape the confines of court life. She became a patron of the arts and supported various health and educational initiatives. Her tragic assassination in 1898 by an Italian anarchist in Geneva marked the end of her life.

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Morgan Bulkeley

American politician, 54th Governor of Connecticut
Born
December 26th, 1837 187 years ago
Died
1922 103 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the 54th Governor of Connecticut from 1889 to 1890. Played a significant role in shaping state policies during his tenure. Engaged in various political activities and held multiple positions within the state government prior to becoming governor. Also served as a soldier during the Civil War, contributing to military efforts.

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George Dewey

Admiral and naval commander at Manila
Born
December 26th, 1837 187 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1917 108 years ago — 79 years old

An American admiral played a significant role in the Spanish-American War as the commander of the United States Navy's Asiatic Squadron. The most notable achievement occurred during the Battle of Manila Bay on May 1, 1898, where a swift and decisive victory against the Spanish fleet established naval dominance. This victory marked a pivotal moment in the war, leading to the U.S. acquisition of Guam and Puerto Rico, along with the Philippines. After the war, served as the Admiral of the Navy, the highest rank in the U.S. Navy.

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Mary Harris Jones

Labor organizer and activist
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1930 94 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent labor organizer, dedicated efforts to improve working conditions for miners and industrial workers. Played a key role in various labor strikes and advocated for workers' rights. Co-founded the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), emphasizing the importance of solidarity among workers. Organized the 1903 March of the Mill Children, bringing national attention to child labor issues. Worked tirelessly to address injustices faced by workers during the early 20th century.

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Arnold Janssen

German priest and missionary founder
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1909 116 years ago — 72 years old

A priest and missionary dedicated to educational and spiritual service, established the Society of the Divine Word in 1875 to promote missionary work worldwide. Founded the congregation of the Servants of the Holy Spirit, focusing on global evangelization and education. Created various institutions and missions to support his vision for spreading the Gospel, emphasizing the importance of cultural sensitivity in missionary work.

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