What Happened This Year 1840

Born in 1840

Father Damien

Flemish missionary and priest
Born
January 3rd, 1840 185 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1889 135 years ago — 49 years old

A priest and missionary served in Hawaii, specifically on the island of Molokai. Established a settlement for individuals afflicted with leprosy and dedicated life to providing care and support to those marginalized by society. Advocated for better living conditions and worked to improve the overall treatment of patients. The work during this period highlighted the challenges faced by those with leprosy and brought international attention to their plight.

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Louis-Nazaire Bégin

Canadian cardinal and religious leader
Born
January 10th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1925 99 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1840, this individual served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church. Bégin was appointed Archbishop of Quebec in 1892 and later became a cardinal in 1904. His tenure included significant contributions to the church during a time of growth and transformation within Canada. Bégin was influential in the education and social teachings of the church and worked towards the establishment of various religious institutions.

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Jo Abbott

American judge and Confederate officer
Born
January 15th, 1840 185 years ago

Served as a judge in Mississippi and held political office following the Civil War. Participated as a Confederate officer during the Civil War, rising to the rank of major. Engaged in post-war governmental roles, contributing to local governance and legal matters.

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Henry Austin Dobson

English poet and author known for poetry
Born
January 18th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1921 103 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1840, a prominent poet and author contributed significantly to English literature. An advocate of metrical poetry, engaged in literary circles of the 19th century. Authored works that reflected themes of nostalgia and romanticism. Contributed to various periodicals, gained recognition for refined verse and wit. Later works included biographical and critical studies of fellow writers.

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Sophia Jex-Blake

English physician and women's rights advocate
Born
January 21st, 1840 185 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1912 113 years ago — 71 years old

Pioneered the entry of women into medicine in the UK. Advocated for women's education and the right to practice medicine. Founded the London School of Medicine for Women in 1874, which became a significant institution for training women doctors. Contributed to the establishment of the Edinburgh School of Medicine for Women.

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Ernest Wilberforce

English bishop and religious leader
Born
January 22nd, 1840 185 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1907 117 years ago — 67 years old

Ordained in the Church of England, served in various ecclesiastical roles including as a bishop. Played a significant part in the church's responses to social issues in the late 19th century. Contributed to theological discussions and church governance while also focusing on education and the welfare of the clergy. His writings and sermons addressed contemporary moral issues.

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Ernst Abbe

German physicist and engineer; optics pioneer
Born
January 23rd, 1840 185 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1905 120 years ago — 64 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of optics and microscopy. Worked closely with Carl Zeiss to develop high-quality optical instruments. Formulated the Abbe Sine Condition, which describes the conditions for achieving optimal resolution in microscopes. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Carl Zeiss AG company, transforming it into a leading manufacturer of optical products. Advocated for the rights of workers and contributed to social reforms in Jena, Germany.

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Allan McLean

Scottish-Australian politician, Premier
Born
February 3rd, 1840 185 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1911 113 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the 19th Premier of Victoria from 1890 to 1892. Played a significant role in shaping the policies of the state during his tenure. Involved in various political initiatives and community services. Contributed to the growth of Victorian infrastructure and education. Engaged in discussions on economic issues affecting the region.

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Hiram Maxim

Engineer and inventor of the Maxim gun
Born
February 5th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1916 108 years ago — 76 years old

An American-English engineer, contributed to military technology through the invention of the Maxim gun, a machine gun that played a significant role in warfare during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The design of the weapon revolutionized the art of warfare and introduced new strategies on the battlefield. In addition to the Maxim gun, developed other inventions, including a portable steam engine and an airship design. Maxim's work in ballistics and weaponry had a lasting influence on military firearms and tactics.

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