What Happened This Year 1849

Born in 1849

Crazy Horse

Native American tribal leader
Born
1849 176 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1877 147 years ago — 28 years old

A prominent leader of the Lakota Sioux, played a key role in the resistance against the encroachment of settlers into Native American territory. Notable for the leadership during the Battle of Little Bighorn in 1876, where combined forces of Lakota and Cheyenne warriors defeated General Custer's troops. Advocated for the preservation of Native American culture and territory while opposing U.S. government policies. Died under unique circumstances in 1877 while in U.S. custody.

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Jacob August Riis

Journalist and reformer; 'How the Other Half Lives'
Born
1849 176 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1914 110 years ago — 65 years old

A journalist and photographer, this individual focused on documenting the living conditions of the urban poor in New York City during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As a reformer, significant efforts contributed to social reform, leading to changes in housing conditions and labor laws. 'How the Other Half Lives', published in 1890, presented a stark view of poverty through photography and writing, influencing public opinion and policy. Additionally, worked with various charitable organizations and was involved in advocacy for child labor laws and improved housing standards.

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Wilhelm Voigt

German criminal and impersonator
Born
1849 176 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1922 103 years ago — 73 years old

Voigt gained notoriety in 1906 when he disguised himself as a Prussian military officer and seized control of the town of Köpenick. This event, known as the Köpenick affair, highlighted issues of authority and social class in Germany. Following the incident, he was arrested and sentenced to a prison term but became a symbol of resistance against bureaucratic oppression. After serving part of his sentence, he continued to live a quiet life away from the public eye until his death in 1922.

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Basil Zaharoff

Businessman and philanthropist
Born
1849 176 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1936 88 years ago — 87 years old

Involved in the arms trade, Zaharoff established himself as a prominent businessman in the early 20th century. He worked with various governments and became a key figure in the global arms market. His influence extended beyond business into philanthropy, contributing to numerous charitable causes. Zaharoff's dealings during World War I, including significant contracts with British and French forces, solidified his reputation in this controversial industry. He also donated substantial sums to hospitals and educational institutions, reflecting his commitment to social causes. His legacy continues to evoke discussions regarding the ethics of arms trade and philanthropy.

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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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