What Happened This Year 1838

Born in 1838

John Hay

American politician and Secretary of State
Born
1838 187 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1905 120 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the 37th United States Secretary of State from 1898 to 1905. Played a pivotal role in the Open Door Policy in China, promoting fair trade and equal opportunities for all foreign nations. Instrumental in negotiating the Hay-Pauncefote Treaty, which permitted the United States to construct the Panama Canal. Prior experience included serving as an aide to President Abraham Lincoln and as the United States ambassador to the United Kingdom. Also contributed to American journalism as a writer and editor.

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Henry Pulleine

English colonel at Isandlwana
Born
1838 187 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1879 146 years ago — 41 years old

Served as a British Army officer during the Anglo-Zulu War. Colonel Pulleine commanded the 1st Battalion of the 24th Regiment of Foot. Led the troops stationed at Isandlwana during the Battle of Isandlwana, which occurred on January 22, 1879. The battle was noted for its significant British defeat by Zulu forces. Pulleine was killed during the conflict.

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François Langelier

Canadian politician and journalist
Born
1838 187 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1915 110 years ago — 77 years old

A legislator and notable public figure, held the position of the 10th Lieutenant Governor of Quebec from 1888 to 1894. In addition to a prominent political career, engaged in journalism and practiced law. Contributed to legal and governmental discussions, influencing policies in Quebec during a transformative period.

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George William Hill

American astronomer and mathematician
Born
1838 187 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1914 111 years ago — 76 years old

Contributed significantly to celestial mechanics and made advancements in the understanding of planetary motion. Developed Hill's formula, which provided solutions to problems in orbital dynamics, allowing for better predictions of satellite paths. Conducted extensive research on the stability of the moon's orbit around the Earth and contributed to the understanding of the three-body problem. Worked with various astronomical observations and computations to enhance the field of astronomy during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu

Romanian philologist and playwright
Born
1838 187 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1907 118 years ago — 69 years old

A foundational figure in Romanian linguistics and literature, contributed significantly to the study of Romanian language and culture. Served as a professor and director of the Romanian Academy, promoting the development of Romanian philology. Authored plays that reflected social realities of the time, with a focus on Romanian history and nationalism. Engaged in journalism, advocating for educational and cultural reforms in Romania, and edited several influential publications.

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