What Happened This Year 1840

Born in 1840

Carlota of Mexico

Empress consort of Mexico, monarch
Born
June 7th, 1840 184 years ago
Died
1927 98 years ago — 87 years old

Born into Belgian royalty, held the title of Empress Consort of Mexico during the Second Mexican Empire. Married Archduke Maximilian of Austria in 1857. Actively participated in her husband's administration and politics, advocating for the establishment of a constitutional monarchy. Her reign faced numerous challenges, including resistance from liberals and the withdrawal of French support. In 1867, the Empire collapsed and Maximilian was executed, leading to her mental deterioration and eventual exile in Europe. Spent the remainder of life in Belgium, grappling with the impact of her lost empire.

Continue Reading

Theodor Philipsen

Danish painter and notable impressionist
Born
June 10th, 1840 184 years ago
Died
1920 105 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1840, this painter became a significant figure in the Danish art scene, particularly associated with the Impressionist movement. The artist studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts and was influenced by both local and French painters. His works often depicted landscapes, rural life, and scenes from everyday life, showcasing light and color characteristic of Impressionism. Many of the pieces captured the essence of Danish nature and culture. The artist exhibited widely and gained recognition during his lifetime, contributing to the development of modern Danish painting.

Continue Reading

Augusta Lundin

International Swedish fashion designer
Born
June 13th, 1840 184 years ago
Died
1919 106 years ago — 79 years old

A pioneer in the fashion industry, this individual is recognized as the first international Swedish fashion designer. Born in 1840, contributions to fashion included the establishment of a successful design house that showcased Swedish artistry. The designer created custom garments for elite clientele and influenced fashion trends in Europe. In the late 19th century, a notable presence was established in Paris, where the fashion scene thrived. The innovative approach included a blend of traditional Swedish textiles and modern design principles, elevating Swedish fashion on an international stage.

Continue Reading

Georg Karl Maria Seidlitz

German entomologist and academic
Born
June 19th, 1840 184 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 77 years old

An entomologist and academic specialized in beetles. Conducted extensive research on various insect species, particularly in the order Coleoptera. Contributed to taxonomic studies, discovering and describing numerous new species. Authored important works that influenced the field of entomology and educated future generations of scientists.

Continue Reading

José María Velasco Gómez

Mexican Painter and Academic
Born
July 6th, 1840 184 years ago
Died
1912 113 years ago — 72 years old

A pivotal figure in Mexican landscape painting, this artist contributed to the development of the genre in the 19th century. His works often depicted the natural beauty of Mexico, emphasizing light, color, and detail. He studied at the Academy of San Carlos and later became a prominent professor there, influencing a generation of artists. His paintings showcased the landscapes of various regions, including the Valley of Mexico, and they received acclaim for their technical skill and fidelity to nature.

Continue Reading

John Bigham

English jurist and politician
Born
August 3rd, 1840 184 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1929 95 years ago — 89 years old

Served as the 1st Viscount Mersey, holding significant roles in the judiciary and politics in England. As a jurist, contributed to legal reforms and served as a judge in prominent cases. Engaged in public service, influencing policies through legislative efforts. His tenure in the House of Lords represented key discussions on various legal matters.

Continue Reading

Richard von Krafft-Ebing

Psychologist and author of 'Psychopathia Sexualis'
Born
August 14th, 1840 184 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1902 122 years ago — 62 years old

A psychologist and author contributed to the understanding of sexual psychology through extensive research and writing. Authored 'Psychopathia Sexualis', a pioneering work analyzing sexual anomalies and behaviors. This work served as a foundational text in sexology, influencing both academic and medical fields. Engaged in clinical practices, providing insights into sexual disorders during a time of limited discussion on the subject. Established a framework for the classification and understanding of sexual deviance, which shaped future discussions in psychology and psychiatry.

Continue Reading

Wilfrid Scawen Blunt

English poet and social activist
Born
August 17th, 1840 184 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1922 102 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1840, a poet and activist focused on social justice and the rights of marginalized communities. Active in the movement for Irish Home Rule, he also opposed the British intervention in Egypt. His poetry often reflected his political views and his engagement with issues of imperialism and freedom. Blunt published several volumes of poetry and wrote extensively on Middle Eastern politics and society, advocating for the rights of the Arab people against colonial powers.

Continue Reading

Ferdinand Hamer

Dutch bishop and missionary work
Born
August 21st, 1840 184 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent Dutch bishop and missionary, dedicated efforts to spreading Christianity in the Dutch East Indies during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Worked to establish and oversee church missions while addressing the needs of local communities. Advocated for educational programs and social reforms to improve the lives of native people. Contributed to the establishment of educational institutions that served both the church and local populations.

Continue Reading