What Happened This Year 1850

Born in 1850

Champ Clark

American politician, Speaker of the House
Born
March 7th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1921 104 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the 41st Speaker of the United States House of Representatives from 1911 to 1919. Represented Missouri's 5th congressional district and held the role during critical periods of the Progressive Era, influencing significant legislation. Played a key role in advocating for progressive reforms and was instrumental in the passage of measures supporting economic recovery and social welfare. His tenure matched the challenges of World War I and the domestic reforms of the time.

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Hamo Thornycroft

English sculptor and academic specializing in monumental works
Born
March 9th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
December 18th, 1925 99 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1850, a prominent English sculptor and academic focused on monumental sculpture. Education included attendance at the Royal Academy Schools. Contributed to various public monuments and sculptures, demonstrating a mastery of form and detail. Served as a professor at the Royal Academy, influencing future generations of artists. Involved in the design of significant works, including the Boer War Memorial in London. His sculptures are characterized by classical influences, reflecting historical themes and narratives.

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Spencer Gore

Tennis player and cricketer, Wimbledon winner
Born
March 10th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1906 118 years ago — 56 years old

Competed as a tennis player and cricketer during the late 19th century. Secured the inaugural Wimbledon Championship in 1877, defeating William Marshall in the final. Played first-class cricket for teams including Surrey and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). Participated in several matches between 1874 and 1881. Contributed to the early development of both sports in England.

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Silas Hocking

English minister and author of novels
Born
March 24th, 1850 174 years ago
Died
1935 90 years ago — 85 years old

This English minister and author contributed significantly to literature during the late 19th century. Hocking published several novels that often centered on themes of faith and moral dilemmas. With a background in religion, his works frequently reflected Christian values and teachings. His most notable work is "The Last of the Malingering", which addressed social issues and personal struggles. In addition to fiction, Hocking wrote non-fiction works that explored spirituality and religious topics. His writings were well-received during his lifetime and remain a part of discussions regarding early Christian literature.

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Edward Bellamy

American author and socialist visionary
Born
March 26th, 1850 174 years ago
Died
1898 127 years ago — 48 years old

An American author and socialist, developed a vision for a utopian society in the novel 'Looking Backward', published in 1888. This work envisioned a future where social injustice was eliminated through a planned economy. The novel inspired a movement advocating for social reforms and influenced the development of several socialist organizations in the United States. Bellamy's ideas on cooperative societies and collective ownership resonated with many during a time of economic disparity and industrialization.

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Kyrle Bellew

English theatre actor renowned for 'Othello'
Born
March 28th, 1850 174 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1911 113 years ago — 61 years old

Performed extensively in the English theatre during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly noted for roles in Shakespearean productions. Gained recognition for performances in classics such as 'Othello' and 'The Merchant of Venice'. Transitioned to silent films in the early 20th century, bringing stage expertise to the silver screen. Had a significant presence in theatrical circles and contributed to the growth of performance art during this period. Remained active in the theatre scene until his death.

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Enrico Mazzanti

Italian engineer and cartoonist
Born
April 5th, 1850 174 years ago
Died
1910 115 years ago — 60 years old

An engineer and cartoonist, contributions to the field of engineering include several designs for structures in Italy. As a cartoonist, Mazzanti created political cartoons that were published in various newspapers, reflecting social and political issues of the time. His work combined technical skill with artistic talent, providing visual commentary on contemporary events.

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Arthur Matthew Weld Downing

Astronomer and astrophysicist
Born
April 13th, 1850 174 years ago
Died
1917 108 years ago — 67 years old

Contributed to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of solar phenomena. Focused on solar eclipses and the nature of stellar atmospheres. Participated in several expeditions to observe solar eclipses, including the notable solar eclipse of 1871. Published works on the physical processes of stars and celestial bodies, influencing future research in astrophysics.

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Daniel Chester French

American sculptor of Lincoln statue
Born
April 20th, 1850 174 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 81 years old

An American sculptor recognized for creating significant works in the field of sculpture. French's most famous work is the seated statue of Abraham Lincoln in the Lincoln Memorial located in Washington D.C. He also produced many other notable pieces, including statues of notable figures and allegorical representations. French was a prominent figure in American sculpture during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and his artistry contributed to the memorialization of key historical events and figures.

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