What Happened This Year 1839

Born in 1839

Ouida

Author and activist known for 'Held in Trust'
Born
January 1st, 1839 186 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1908 117 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1839, an English-Italian author produced numerous novels, stories, and plays. The author adopted the pen name Ouida and published over 30 works, many of which gained popularity during the Victorian era. Among these, 'Held in Trust' stood out as a significant title. In addition to literary pursuits, engaged in activism, particularly advocating for animal welfare and social issues. This dual focus on literature and activism characterized the author's career.

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Carl Humann

German archaeologist and architect
Born
January 4th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
1896 129 years ago — 57 years old

An accomplished archaeologist and architect, worked primarily in the 19th century. Employed engineering skills in major archaeological sites, notably in the excavation and reconstruction of the Pergamon Altar in Berlin. Contributed significantly to the field of archaeology through meticulous documentation and publication of findings. Engaged in the exploration of ancient Greek and Roman remains, influencing future archaeological methods and scholarship.

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John Knowles Paine

American composer and academic
Born
January 9th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1906 118 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1839, a significant figure in American classical music and higher education. Served as a professor at Harvard University, playing a vital role in the development of music education in the United States. Composed orchestral and chamber works, as well as choral pieces, substantially contributing to the musical landscape. Often regarded as one of the first American composers to gain recognition in Europe, his music reflected both German and American musical traditions.

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Eugenio María de Hostos

Puerto Rican philosopher and educator
Born
January 11th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1903 121 years ago — 64 years old

A lawyer, philosopher, and sociologist, contributed significantly to education reform in Puerto Rico and advocated for women's rights and social justice. Founded educational institutions and emphasized the importance of public education. Wrote extensively on various social issues and played a vital role in the independence movements of Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. Engaged in debates on political and social reform throughout Latin America.

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Paul Cézanne

French painter known for Post-Impressionism
Born
January 19th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
October 22nd, 1906 118 years ago — 67 years old

A significant figure in the transition from 19th-century Impressionism to 20th-century Cubism. Developed a unique style that emphasized geometric forms and the orderly depiction of natural scenes. Produced a collection of still lifes, landscapes, and portraits that showcased the adaptations of perspective and color. His work paved the way for modern art movements and influenced countless artists.

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Caterina Volpicelli

Roman Catholic nun and founder of a congregation
Born
January 21st, 1839 186 years ago
Died
1894 131 years ago — 55 years old

Founded the Congregation of the Sisters of Charity of St. Joachim in 1874, focusing on education and social work. Dedicated to serving the poor and providing healthcare to those in need, especially in Naples, Italy. Worked to improve the conditions of orphaned and abandoned children through various educational initiatives.

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Eduard Hitzig

German neurologist and psychiatrist
Born
February 6th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
1907 118 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent German neurologist and psychiatrist, contributions to the understanding of brain function through experimentation on animals and patients were significant. Hitzig conducted groundbreaking work in the field of electrostimulation of the brain, which laid the foundation for modern neurology. His collaboration with Gustav Fritsch resulted in the discovery of the cortical motor areas, leading to advances in neurosurgery and treatment of neurological disorders. He published several works on mental illnesses and neurology, influencing future research and clinical practices.

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Silas Adams

American colonel and politician
Born
February 9th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1896 128 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1839, a colonel during the American Civil War, contributed significantly to military operations. After the war, transitioned into law and politics, serving as a member of the Michigan State Senate. Played a vital role in shaping local governance and policies while advocating for civic issues. Engaged in various community initiatives and maintained an active presence in post-war reconstruction efforts.

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Josiah Willard Gibbs

American physicist and thermodynamics pioneer
Born
February 11th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1903 121 years ago — 64 years old

Contributions to the field of physics and chemistry included the development of the phase rule and the concept of chemical potential. Developed the Gibbs distribution in statistical mechanics. Played a crucial role in thermodynamics by formulating principles that describe the relationships between temperature, pressure, and volume. Authored 'Elementary Principles in Statistical Mechanics' which laid foundational aspects of statistical mechanics. Held a professorship at Yale University with significant influence on the education of future scientists.

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