What Happened This Year 1839

Born in 1839

Alfred Horatio Belo

American publisher and journalist
Born
1839 186 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1901 124 years ago — 62 years old

Founded The Dallas Morning News in 1885, contributing significantly to journalism in Texas. The newspaper became one of the leading publications in the state, known for its comprehensive coverage of local and national news. Belo expanded the paper's operations and circulation, enhancing its influence in the region. Under his leadership, the publication gained a reputation for editorial integrity and was pivotal in reporting on key events of the era. Belo's efforts in establishing a robust newspaper laid the groundwork for the modern media landscape in Dallas.

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Phoebe Knapp

American organist and composer
Born
1839 186 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1908 116 years ago — 69 years old

Pioneered the development of sacred music in the late 19th century. Composed numerous hymns and liturgical music, with particular prominence in church settings. Collaborated with prominent figures in the field of music, contributing to the broader church music repertoire. Instrumental in the establishment of music programs in various religious institutions.

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Devil Anse Hatfield

American guerrilla leader during feuds
Born
1839 186 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1921 104 years ago — 82 years old

A leader of the Hatfield clan during the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feud, operated in the late 19th century. The feud primarily took place in the Appalachian region, especially on the border of West Virginia and Kentucky. Hatfield played a significant role in various skirmishes and legal battles against the McCoy family. His actions during this period solidified his reputation as a notorious figure in American folklore and history. The feud escalated into violence, involving investigations and trials that captured national attention. After years of conflict, the feud largely subsided, and Hatfield became a prominent figure associated with it until death.

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Machado de Assis

Brazilian author of 'Memórias Póstumas'
Born
1839 186 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1908 116 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent figure in Brazilian literature, this author was a founding member of the Brazilian Academy of Letters. His literary career began with poetry and evolved into novels, plays, and essays, exploring themes of social inequality and the human condition. 'Memórias Póstumas de Brás Cubas', published in 1881, is a seminal work that introduced innovative narrative techniques and whimsical humor. The author also wrote 'Dom Casmurro', a novel that delves into jealousy and betrayal. As a mixed-race writer in 19th-century Brazil, he navigated a complex sociopolitical landscape, contributing significantly to the richness of Brazilian cultural discourse.

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Christian Wilberg

Painter and illustrator, known for landscapes
Born
1839 186 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1882 142 years ago — 43 years old

A German painter and illustrator provided works that predominantly featured landscapes. Active during the 19th century, engaged in capturing the beauty of the natural world through his art. Contributed to various exhibitions and gained recognition for artistic skills. His style reflected the influences of Romanticism, emphasizing emotion and the sublime aspects of nature. Continued to produce artwork until his passing in 1882.

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George Cadbury

Businessman and chocolate manufacturer
Born
1839 186 years ago
Died
October 24th, 1922 102 years ago — 83 years old

Founded the Cadbury chocolate company, which became a leading manufacturer of chocolate products. Championed social reforms in the workplace, improving conditions for workers in the factory. Promoted the establishment of the Bournville village for employees, which featured better housing and amenities. Contributed to the development of Fairtrade products within the chocolate industry.

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Nikolay Bobrikov

Russian politician, Governor-General of Finland
Born
1839 186 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1904 120 years ago — 65 years old

Served as a Russian soldier and politician, holding the position of Governor-General of Finland from 1898 until his assassination in 1904. Implemented policies aimed at increasing Russian influence over Finland. His tenure faced significant opposition from Finnish nationalists, culminating in his assassination by a Finnish student discontented with his administration's autocratic measures. Bobrikov's rule is noted for its attempts to suppress Finnish institutions and culture in favor of Russian dominance.

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