What Happened This Year 1840

Born in 1840

Nozu Michitsura

Japanese field marshal
Born
December 17th, 1840 184 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1908 116 years ago — 67 years old

Field marshal served in the Imperial Japanese Army during the Meiji period. Played a significant role in the Sino-Japanese War and the Russo-Japanese War. Notably led forces in the Siege of Port Arthur, contributing to Japan's military reputation. Held various high-ranking positions in the army and contributed to military reform in Japan.

Continue Reading

Namık Kemal

Turkish journalist and playwright
Born
December 21st, 1840 184 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1888 136 years ago — 47 years old

Born in 1840, a Turkish journalist, playwright, and activist contributed significantly to Turkish literature and nationalism. Focused on social reform through writing, emphasized freedom and justice in works. His play, 'Vatan yahut Silistre,' highlighted the importance of patriotism and played a key role in the cultural awakening in the Ottoman Empire. Engaged actively in the Young Turk movement, advocating for constitutional monarchy, and faced exile for opposition to the Sultan. Returned to Istanbul in 1908, continuing to influence political and literary spheres until his death in 1888.

Continue Reading

Ernest de Munck

Belgian cellist and composer
Born
December 21st, 1840 184 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1915 110 years ago — 74 years old

Ernest de Munck contributed to the world of classical music as a distinguished cellist and composer. Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, his works primarily focused on chamber music and orchestral compositions. De Munck's skills on the cello gained recognition, and he performed with notable ensembles. His compositions, while less frequently performed today, showcased his command of melody and harmony.

Continue Reading

Henri Duveyrier

French explorer of North Africa
Born
1840 185 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1892 133 years ago — 52 years old

Explored the Sahara Desert and regions of North Africa during the 19th century. Authored several works detailing the geography and ethnography of the areas visited. Contributed to European knowledge of the Sahara and its cultures. Documented the Tuareg tribes and their way of life, influencing future studies and explorations.

Continue Reading

Rhoda Broughton

Welsh-English author of novels
Born
1840 185 years ago
Died
June 5th, 1920 104 years ago — 80 years old

An author grew prominent in the late 19th century, primarily focusing on novels that featured intricate plots and sharp social commentary. Broughton's works often explored themes of love, society, and morality within a Victorian context. Several of her novels captured the complexities of human relationships, which contributed to her reputation in literary circles. Titles such as 'Not Wisely But Too Well' and 'Mrs. Maxon Protests' showcased her narrative style and engagement with contemporary social issues. A frequent contributor to serialization in popular magazines of the time, she helped shape the novel landscape of her era.

Continue Reading

Abraham Goldfaden

Russian playwright and actor
Born
1840 185 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1908 117 years ago — 68 years old

A significant figure in Yiddish theater, played a crucial role in its development in the late 19th century. Founded the first professional Yiddish theater in Romania, which helped to popularize the genre. Authored several plays that remain influential in Yiddish literature, including 'Bar Kochba.' Goldfaden's work reflected the cultural and social issues of Jewish communities, and he often infused dramatic narratives with humor and poignancy.

Continue Reading

Carl Menger

Austrian economist and founder of Marginalism
Born
1840 185 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1921 104 years ago — 81 years old

An economist and academic who established the foundations of the Austrian School of Economics. Developed the theory of marginal utility, which transformed economic analysis. Published 'Principles of Economics' in 1871, which laid out the principles of subjective value and utility. Contributed to the critique of socialism and was involved in debates with contemporary economists. Engaged in academic discourse and served as a professor, influencing future generations of economists.

Continue Reading

Chief Joseph

American tribal leader and spokesman
Born
1840 185 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1904 120 years ago — 64 years old

As a leader of the Nez Perce tribe, played a crucial role during the Nez Perce War of 1877. Advocated for the rights and land of his people, seeking peaceful coexistence with American settlers. Following the war, led his people in a long and arduous retreat towards Canada, which gained significant attention. Served as a spokesman for the Nez Perce, bringing awareness to their plight and advocating for their rights until death.

Continue Reading

Franz Mertens

Mathematician and academic from Austria
Born
1840 185 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1927 98 years ago — 87 years old

A mathematician and academic contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and number theory. Mertens held academic positions in various universities where he advanced mathematical research and education. The Mertens conjecture, which addressed the asymptotic behavior of the sum of the reciprocals of prime numbers, is among his notable contributions. Published works included textbooks that became integral to mathematical studies.

Continue Reading