What Happened This Year 1844

Born in 1844

William H. Illingworth

Photographer known for landscapes
Born
September 20th, 1844 180 years ago
Died
1893 132 years ago — 49 years old

Born in England, a photographer became prominent in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Specializing in landscape photography, his works captured the natural beauty of America, particularly the western regions. Illingworth contributed to the photographic documentation of national parks and wilderness areas. His techniques and compositions influenced the field of outdoor photography and helped establish standards in the genre. He also published a number of his photographs, many of which featured the dramatic landscapes of California and the Sierra Nevada. His images were characterized by keen attention to light and shadow, showcasing the grandeur of the American wilderness.

Continue Reading

Robert Stout

Politician and 13th Prime Minister of NZ
Born
September 28th, 1844 180 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1930 94 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the 13th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1884 to 1887. Acted as a prominent lawyer before entering politics, contributing to legal reforms and expanding suffrage. Played a significant role in establishing the Labour Party and advocating for social justice in New Zealand. Held various political positions, including Chief Justice, influencing the country's legal landscape.

Continue Reading

Edward Pulsford

Politician and free-trade campaigner
Born
September 29th, 1844 180 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1919 105 years ago — 75 years old

Born in England, this individual moved to Australia and became involved in politics. Focused on advocating for free trade, played a significant role in shaping economic policies. Served as a member of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly during his political career, contributing to various legislative reforms. Efforts in promoting free trade were pivotal in influencing regional economic discussions and aligning with broader economic trends of the time.

Continue Reading

Miguel Ángel Juárez Celman

Argentinian Politician and Lawyer
Born
September 29th, 1844 180 years ago
Died
1909 116 years ago — 65 years old

An Argentinian lawyer and politician served as the 10th President of Argentina from 1886 to 1890. Administration focused on economic modernization and infrastructure development. Juárez Celman faced economic challenges and political opposition during his presidency, which led to his resignation. After leaving office, continued involvement in public life and politics, contributing to various national discussions and events.

Continue Reading

Francis William Reitz

South African lawyer and politician
Born
October 5th, 1844 180 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1934 90 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 5th State President of the Orange Free State from 1889 to 1895. His tenure was marked by efforts to strengthen the administration and legal systems within the republic. Advocated for the rights of the Boer community during British colonial expansion in Southern Africa. Later became involved in the formation of the South African Republic and contributed to the constitutional development of the region.

Continue Reading

John See

Politician, 14th Premier of New South Wales
Born
October 14th, 1844 180 years ago
Died
1907 118 years ago — 63 years old

Born in England, later moved to Australia, served as the 14th Premier of New South Wales from 1904 to 1907. His tenure focused on infrastructure development and agricultural reform. Advocated for irrigation and agricultural productivity, which contributed to economic growth in the region. Involved in various legislative reforms and played a significant role in land management policies.

Continue Reading

Friedrich Nietzsche

Philosopher and author of Zarathustra
Born
October 15th, 1844 180 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1900 124 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent philosopher and cultural critic, contributed significantly to existentialism and nihilism. Wrote several influential works, including 'Thus Spoke Zarathustra,' 'Beyond Good and Evil,' and 'The Birth of Tragedy.' Explored concepts such as the Übermensch and the will to power. His ideas challenged traditional morality and religion, paving the way for new philosophical movements. Suffered a mental breakdown in 1889 and spent the remaining years in a state of health decline until death in 1900.

Continue Reading

Gustave Schlumberger

French historian and editor
Born
October 17th, 1844 180 years ago
Died
1929 96 years ago — 85 years old

Significant contributions included editing the 'Revue archéologique', focusing on French architecture and archaeology. Authored detailed studies on the history of art and archaeology. Collaborated with several notable institutions to advance the study of ancient history. Worked extensively on the archaeology of France and the historical monuments found throughout the country.

Continue Reading

Sarah Bernhardt

French actress and playwright
Born
October 22nd, 1844 180 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1923 101 years ago — 78 years old

One of the most celebrated actresses of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, she gained recognition for her work in both theater and film. She performed in numerous productions across Europe and the United States, often portraying tragic heroines. Bernhardt's distinctive voice and commanding stage presence made her a pioneer in the performing arts. She founded her own theater in Paris and became one of the first actresses to appear in motion pictures, contributing to the evolution of the craft. Her legacy includes a wealth of performances in classics like 'Phèdre' and 'The Merchant of Venice'.

Continue Reading