What Happened This Year 1849

Born in 1849

John Ambrose Fleming

Physicist, Inventor of the Vacuum Tube
Born
November 29th, 1849 175 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1945 79 years ago — 95 years old

Contributions to electrical engineering and physics include the invention of the vacuum tube in 1904, which facilitated the development of radio technology and electronic communication. Developed the Fleming valve, crucial for early electronic amplifiers. Held a professorship at University College London and served as president of the Institution of Electrical Engineers. Engaged in various scientific organizations, contributing to advancements in telephony and radio broadcasting.

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Eduard Seler

German anthropologist and ethnohistorian
Born
December 5th, 1849 175 years ago
Died
1922 103 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of Mesoamerican culture and languages, focusing on the history and mythology of ancient Maya civilization. Worked extensively on the interpretation of iconography and inscriptions. Published numerous works that offered insights into the cultures of Mexico and Central America, including studies on codices and regional histories. Engaged with various academic institutions and garnered respect for linguistic and ethnographical research.

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August von Mackensen

German field marshal during WWI
Born
December 6th, 1849 175 years ago
Died
November 8th, 1945 79 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent German field marshal, held significant military positions during World War I. Commanded German forces in several key campaigns, including the successful Siege of Przemysl and the Battle of Tannenberg. His strategic skills were evident during the campaign in the Eastern Front, leading to notable victories against Russian troops. Later, played a crucial role in the 1916 offensive in Romania, securing a decisive victory. After the war, continued to influence German military thought and development until retirement.

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Mary Hartwell Catherwood

American author and poet, wrote Indian novels
Born
December 16th, 1849 175 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1902 122 years ago — 53 years old

An American author and poet, produced numerous works during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Focused primarily on themes related to Native American life and experiences. Gained recognition for a series of novels set in the American West, which depicted the interactions between settlers and Indigenous peoples. Contributed articles and poetry to various magazines, enhancing the literary landscape of the time. Her writing is characterized by rich descriptions and explorations of cultural conflict.

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Henrietta Edwards

Canadian activist and author
Born
December 18th, 1849 175 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 82 years old

An activist and author, contributed significantly to the women's rights movement in Canada. Co-founded the National Council of Women of Canada in 1893 and served as its first president. Played a crucial role in advocating for legal rights for women and was involved in several initiatives aimed at improving women's status in society. Authored various works, including a biography of one of Canada’s early feminist figures. Focused on issues such as suffrage, property rights, and labor conditions for women.

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Henry Clay Frick

Businessman and financier of steel industry
Born
December 19th, 1849 175 years ago
Died
1919 106 years ago — 70 years old

Involved in the American steel industry during the late 19th century, played a crucial role in the establishment of the Carnegie Steel Company as a business partner of Andrew Carnegie. His management strategies contributed significantly to the company's growth and profitability. Frick was involved in the Homestead Strike of 1892, a major labor dispute that had long-lasting effects on labor relations in the United States. After selling his interests in steel, transitioned into investments in coal and other industries, enhancing his financial portfolio. Later, focused on art collection and philanthropy, establishing the Frick Collection in New York City.

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John Milne

Seismologist and geologist of Japan
Born
December 30th, 1849 175 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1913 111 years ago — 63 years old

An English seismologist and geologist contributed extensively to the understanding of earthquakes. Developed the first true seismometer, enabling accurate earthquake detection. Played a crucial role in founding the Seismological Society of Japan and significantly advanced the study of seismic waves in the late 19th century. Conducted research that laid the groundwork for future seismic engineering. His work established a framework for earthquake safety measures in Japan, a country prone to seismic activity.

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Abbott Handerson Thayer

Painter and educator, known for angel paintings
Born
1849 176 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1921 103 years ago — 72 years old

An American painter and educator specialized in naturalistic representations of subjects. Key works explored themes of angels and nature, utilizing a distinctive use of color and light. Worked as an educator, influencing a generation of artists through both teaching and his writings on art. Advocated for the importance of understanding nature in the creation of art. Contributed to the realism movement and closely associated with academic traditions in American art.

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Benjamin Godard

Composer and violinist, famous for operas
Born
1849 176 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1895 130 years ago — 46 years old

Born in 1849, this figure was a prominent French violinist and composer. Education took place in Paris, leading to a successful career in both performance and composition. Contributions to the opera genre include works such as 'Dumluck' and 'Mireille.' The music often displayed a romantic style, reflecting the cultural landscape of France in the late 19th century. Besides operatic compositions, also composed symphonic works and chamber music, gaining recognition during the lifetime.

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