What Happened This Year 1837

Born in 1837

Barghash bin Said of Zanzibar

Sultan of Zanzibar and East African ruler
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1888 136 years ago — 51 years old

Ruled Zanzibar from 1870 until 1888, instrumental in the development of the island's economy and infrastructure. Oversaw the expansion of clove plantations, which became a significant export. Strengthened diplomatic ties with Western powers and modernized the sultanate's governance. Fostered education and established modern institutions. Engaged in conflicts with rival powers, notably during the Anglo-Zanzibar War in 1896, which occurred shortly after death.

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Jacob Maris

Dutch painter known for landscapes
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1899 125 years ago — 62 years old

Prominent Dutch painter associated with the Hague School, focusing on landscape painting. Active in the late 19th century, contributed to the realism movement. Noted for innovative interpretations of natural light and atmosphere within his works. Served as a professor at the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague, fostering the development of younger artists. Created works that often featured the Dutch countryside, with a particular emphasis on the sea and coastal scenes.

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Ivan Kramskoi

Russian Painter and Art Critic
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1887 137 years ago — 50 years old

An influential Russian painter and art critic, played a pivotal role in the development of realistic art in Russia during the 19th century. Founded the Society of Traveling Art Exhibitions, promoting the works of contemporary artists. Implemented critical approaches to art, emphasizing the importance of individual expression and national identity. His most notable works include 'The Unknown Woman' and 'Portrait of the Artist's Family'. Contributed significantly to art criticism through essays and reviews.

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Gabriel Dumont

Métis leader and resistance figure
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1906 118 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent leader of the Métis people, played a key role in the North-West Rebellion of 1885. Advocated for Métis rights and land claims, promoting the preservation of Métis culture and heritage. Worked alongside Louis Riel in the resistance against the Canadian government, which sought to annex Métis lands. After the rebellion, faced exile in the United States before returning to Canada.

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Kintpuash

Tribal leader during the Modoc War
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1873 151 years ago — 36 years old

Served as a chief of the Modoc tribe in California and Oregon. Led the tribe during the Modoc War against the U.S. military from 1872 to 1873. The conflict arose due to land disputes and the forced relocation of the Modoc people. Kintpuash and his followers sought to defend their homeland, leading to significant military engagements. Following the war, he was captured and eventually executed in 1873.

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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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Ion Creangă

Romanian author of 'Amintiri din copilărie'
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1889 135 years ago — 52 years old

An influential Romanian author and educator, contributions to literature include children's stories and autobiographical anecdotes. Authored 'Amintiri din copilărie', a celebrated work recounting childhood experiences and Romanian folklore. Engaged in education, Creangă worked as a schoolmaster, promoting the importance of education in the community. The narrative style incorporated local dialect and traditions, reflecting the culture of Romania in the 19th century.

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Joseph Leycester Lyne

English monk and pilgrimage organizer
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1908 116 years ago — 71 years old

A notable English monk contributed to the revival of interest in monastic life during the late 19th century. Founded the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, promoting religious and charitable work. Organized pilgrimages to significant sites in Europe, encouraging spiritual exploration among followers. Documented various aspects of religious life through writings that reflected the monastic commitment to community and service.

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Charles Yerkes

American financier and railroad magnate
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1905 119 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent financier and railroad magnate, major contributions included the development of the Chicago transit system. Yerkes played a significant role in expanding the streetcar network in Chicago and was instrumental in the formation of the Chicago Elevated Railroad Company. Significant achievements included the construction of the first elevated rail lines in Chicago, helping to enhance urban transportation during the late 19th century. Financial and operational strategies employed during this period reshaped public transit in the city, fostering growth and accessibility.

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