What Happened This Year 1848

Born in 1848

Vasily Surikov

Russian painter known for historical scenes
Born
January 24th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 68 years old

Born in Siberia, a prominent Russian painter focused on historical and dramatic subjects. Studied at the Imperial Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg. Gained recognition for a unique style that merged realism with emotional intensity. Created notable works such as 'The Taking of the Snow Town' and 'Boyarynya Morozova'. Acclaimed for the ability to depict complex human emotions and pivotal moments in Russian history.

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Tōgō Heihachirō

Japanese admiral and naval strategist
Born
January 27th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1934 90 years ago — 86 years old

Involved in the modernization of the Imperial Japanese Navy, played a pivotal role during the First Sino-Japanese War and the Russo-Japanese War. Commanded the Japanese fleet that achieved a decisive victory at the Battle of Tsushima in 1905, which established Japan as a major naval power. Contributed to naval strategies and tactics that were studied globally. Took part in diplomatic efforts to strengthen Japan's position in international relations.

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Jean Aicard

French poet and playwright
Born
February 4th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1921 103 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1848, this individual became a prominent figure in French literature, contributing significantly as a poet, author, and playwright. Celebrated works include the drama 'Les Deux Gosses' and a variety of poetry that reflected the social and cultural nuances of the time. This individual was also involved in the collaboration of various literary projects that emphasized the importance of the arts in society. The individual served as the president of the Société des Gens de Lettres, an organization of writers and artists.

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Ignacio Carrera Pinto

Chilean lieutenant and military leader
Born
February 5th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1882 142 years ago — 34 years old

Born in Chile in 1848, a lieutenant in the Chilean army gained prominence during the War of the Pacific. Played a key role in several battles, leading troops with distinction. Contributed to strategic military decisions that shaped key outcomes in the conflict. Remembered for bravery and leadership in challenging circumstances, ultimately sacrificing life in combat.

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Joris-Karl Huysmans

French author, wrote Against Nature
Born
February 5th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1907 117 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent 19th-century French author and critic, contributed significantly to the Symbolist and Decadent movements. Published the novel 'À rebours' (Against Nature) in 1884, which became a defining work of the Decadent literary movement. Explored themes of aesthetics, morality, and spirituality through a detailed and often controversial narrative style. Worked as a literary critic for various publications and engaged deeply with contemporary art and literature, influencing multiple generations of writers and artists.

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Benjamin Baillaud

French astronomer and academic
Born
February 14th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1934 90 years ago — 86 years old

An astronomer and academic contributed significantly to the study of celestial mechanics and astrometry. Served as the director of the Paris-Meudon Observatory and played a pivotal role in the establishment of the International Astronomical Union. Authored numerous scientific papers and textbooks, particularly focusing on the motion of celestial bodies and observatory techniques. Engaged in educating future astronomers and enhancing observational methods.

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Octave Mirbeau

French journalist and playwright
Born
February 16th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1917 108 years ago — 69 years old

Contributed to literature as a journalist, novelist, and playwright. Best known for the novel 'Le Journal d'une femme de chambre' (A Chambermaid's Story), which explores themes of class and social issues in France. Also wrote 'Les Deux Mamelles de Titan' and numerous articles for various publications. His works often critiqued societal norms and advocated for social change. Participated in the literary and artistic movements in France during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influencing both literature and drama.

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Hugo de Vries

Botanist and geneticist, mutation theory
Born
February 16th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1935 89 years ago — 87 years old

Contributions to genetics included the formulation of the mutation theory, which proposed that new species arise from sudden changes in traits. Conducted hybridization experiments on plants, particularly evening primroses, leading to significant findings in heredity and variation. Published works advanced the understanding of Mendelian inheritance, which laid foundational principles for modern genetics. De Vries also played a role in the revival of interest in Mendel's laws in the early 20th century, influencing future research in the field.

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Louisa Lawson

Australian poet and publisher of verse
Born
February 17th, 1848 177 years ago
Died
1920 105 years ago — 72 years old

An Australian poet and publisher contributed to the literary landscape through poetry and advocacy for women's rights. Approached writing as a platform for social justice, publishing works that highlighted the issues faced by women in society. Established the 'Dawn,' a feminist newspaper, which aimed to provide a voice for women during a time when such platforms were scarce. Engaged with various literary figures and encouraged literary pursuits among women in Australia, thereby influencing future generations of writers and feminists.

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