What Happened This Year 1838

Born in 1838

Tobias Asser

Nobel Prize-winning lawyer and scholar
Born
April 28th, 1838 186 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1913 111 years ago — 75 years old

A lawyer and scholar specialized in international law and arbitration. Played a significant role in the formation of international legal standards. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1911 for contributions to the peaceful resolution of international disputes. Advocated for the establishment of the Hague Conference and promoted arbitration as a means to resolve conflicts. Engaged in various legal reform efforts throughout his career.

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John Wilkes Booth

American actor and presidential assassin
Born
May 10th, 1838 186 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1865 159 years ago — 26 years old

An accomplished actor in the 19th century, gained fame through performances at various theaters, particularly noted for roles in Shakespearean plays. Booth was part of a well-known theatrical family and often appeared in productions such as 'Julius Caesar'. His notoriety increased following the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865, during a performance at Ford's Theatre in Washington, D.C. After the assassination, fled and was pursued widely, leading to a standoff at a Virginia barn where he was ultimately killed by Union soldiers.

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Jules Méline

French lawyer and Prime Minister
Born
May 20th, 1838 186 years ago
Died
1925 100 years ago — 87 years old

Served as the 65th Prime Minister of France from 1896 to 1898. Advocated for agricultural policies and sought to improve the economic conditions of rural France. Played a significant role in the establishment of the agricultural credit and rural banks. Held various roles in politics, contributing to the legislative process during a transitional period in French history.

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Amaldus Nielsen

Norwegian painter of Nature scenes
Born
May 23rd, 1838 186 years ago
Died
1932 93 years ago — 94 years old

Born in 1838, a painter associated with the Romantic and Realist movements, practiced landscape paintings that emphasized the natural beauty of the Norwegian surroundings. Started studies in Oslo before traveling to Germany for further artistic development. Frequently depicted serene landscapes, capturing the essence of the Norwegian countryside. His contributions to the art world involved promoting the representation of nature through a unique blend of realism and Impressionism, influencing future generations of artists.

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Henry Sidgwick

Economist and philosopher
Born
May 31st, 1838 186 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1900 124 years ago — 62 years old

Contributed to utilitarian ethics and the philosophy of education. Published 'The Methods of Ethics' in 1874, which explored ethical theory and rationality. Founded the first women's college in Cambridge, contributing to the advancement of women's education. Served as a prominent figure in discussions on morality and economics.

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Duchess Alexandra Petrovna of Oldenburg

Duchess, wife of Grand Duke Michael
Born
June 2nd, 1838 186 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 62 years old

Born into the House of Oldenburg, held the title of Duchess. Married Grand Duke Michael of Russia in 1863, establishing ties between the Russian Imperial family and the House of Oldenburg. Actively participated in social engagements and charity work throughout her life, supporting various causes. Lived through significant historical periods including the decline of the Russian Empire, and experienced major social changes leading up to the Russian Revolution.

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Yamagata Aritomo

Japanese Field Marshal and Prime Minister
Born
June 14th, 1838 186 years ago
Died
1922 103 years ago — 84 years old

Entered military service in the Tokugawa shogunate and later played a significant role in the Meiji Restoration. Served as Chief of Staff of the Imperial Japanese Army and became a prominent military leader during the First Sino-Japanese War. Held the position of Prime Minister twice, implementing policies that expanded Japan's military and diplomatic reach. Advocated for the need of modernizing Japan and influenced its expansionist policies during the late 19th century.

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Cushman Kellogg Davis

American Governor of Minnesota
Born
June 16th, 1838 186 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the 7th Governor of Minnesota from 1874 to 1876. Held the position of Lieutenant Colonel in the Union Army during the Civil War. Worked as a prominent attorney and was a key figure in the Minnesota state legislature. Contributed to various legal and political institutions in the state.

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Frederic Archer

English organist and composer
Born
June 16th, 1838 186 years ago
Died
1901 124 years ago — 63 years old

An English organist, composer, and conductor contributed significantly to the development of choral music in the 19th century. Served as the organist at various prestigious locations, including the Temple Church in London. Composed numerous pieces for choir and organ, showcasing the musical styles of the time. His work included arrangements and original compositions that were performed by various choirs.

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