What Happened This Year 1842

Born in 1842

Alferd Packer

American prospector and cannibal
Born
1842 183 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1907 118 years ago — 65 years old

Alferd Packer was an American prospector who gained notoriety during the late 19th century. During the winter of 1874, while prospecting in Colorado, Packer became involved in a situation that led to the death of several members of his party. After surviving alone in harsh conditions, suspicions arose regarding the circumstances of their disappearance. Packer was later apprehended and tried for murder. His trial drew significant media attention, and he was convicted of manslaughter. Packer served 17 years in prison before being released in 1901. His story became a subject of folklore and curiosity, often highlighting themes of survival and desperation.

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Edmond Audran

French organist and composer of operas
Born
1842 183 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1901 123 years ago — 59 years old

An organist and composer from France, recognized for contributions to the operatic genre. Significant works include 'La Mascotte' and 'Girelle.' Audran held prominent positions in various churches, where expertise in organ performance was demonstrated. Composed operettas that were performed in various theaters, gaining popularity during the late 19th century.

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Marie Alfred Cornu

French physicist and academic
Born
1842 183 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1902 123 years ago — 60 years old

A physicist and academic contributed significantly to the field of optics. Worked extensively on the diffraction of light and the study of optical instruments. Held a prominent position at the École Polytechnique, influencing the education of future scientists. Engaged in research that advanced understanding of light and optics.

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Enrico D'Ovidio

Italian mathematician in algebraic geometry
Born
1842 183 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1933 92 years ago — 91 years old

Contributed to the field of mathematics, particularly in algebraic geometry. D'Ovidio worked on the theory of spaces defined by algebraic equations and published several papers on the subject. His research laid groundwork for future developments in projective geometry and other areas of mathematics. D'Ovidio held academic positions and influenced mathematical education during his career. His work provided insights that would inform later mathematicians in the field.

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Heinrich Seidel

German engineer and poet
Born
1842 183 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1906 118 years ago — 64 years old

An engineer and poet from Germany, significant contributions included the design of hydraulic structures and the development of educational materials. In poetry, work embraced themes of nature and introspection, reflecting personal experiences and societal observations. Active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributions to both engineering and literature showed a commitment to robust technical solutions alongside artistic expression.

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Eloy Alfaro

Former president of Ecuador
Born
1842 183 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1912 113 years ago — 70 years old

Served as the president of Ecuador during two non-consecutive terms from 1895 to 1897 and then from 1906 to 1911. Advocated for liberal reforms, including the separation of church and state, modernization of the economy, and expansion of civil rights. Faced significant opposition from conservative factions and military leaders throughout the presidency, which culminated in his assassination in 1912. Played a crucial role in the Liberal Revolution of Ecuador.

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