What Happened This Year 1850

Born in 1850

Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk

Austrian-Czech sociologist and politician
Born
March 7th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1937 87 years ago — 87 years old

Austrian-Czech sociologist and politician served as the first President of Czechoslovakia from 1918 to 1935. Masaryk played a significant role in the establishment of the Czechoslovak state after World War I, advocating for democracy and nationalism. His work in sociology and philosophy influenced his political career, emphasizing ethics and social justice. He contributed to the founding of Czechoslovakia by uniting various nationalist movements and negotiating with world leaders. His presidency focused on nation-building and fostering a democratic society.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Spencer Gore

Tennis player and cricketer, Wimbledon winner
Born
March 10th, 1850 175 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1906 119 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.

Continue Reading

Silas Hocking

English minister and author of novels
Born
March 24th, 1850 175 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.

Continue Reading

Edward Bellamy

American author and socialist visionary
Born
March 26th, 1850 175 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.

Continue Reading

Kyrle Bellew

English theatre actor renowned for 'Othello'
Born
March 28th, 1850 175 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.

Continue Reading

Enrico Mazzanti

Italian engineer and cartoonist
Born
April 5th, 1850 175 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.

Continue Reading

Arthur Matthew Weld Downing

Astronomer and astrophysicist
Born
April 13th, 1850 175 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.

Continue Reading

Daniel Chester French

American sculptor of Lincoln statue
Born
April 20th, 1850 175 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.

Continue Reading