What Happened This Year 1851

Born in 1851

William Hall-Jones

Politician, 16th Prime Minister of New Zealand
Born
January 16th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
1936 89 years ago — 85 years old

Served as the 16th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1906 to 1908. His tenure included efforts to improve social legislation and education. Prior to becoming Prime Minister, held various positions in the government and contributed to the establishment of the New Zealand Liberal Party. Focused on infrastructure development and expansion of democratic reforms during the administration. Engaged in numerous public service roles.

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A. B. Frost

Illustrator and author of children's books
Born
January 17th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 1928 96 years ago — 77 years old

A significant contributor to children's literature, this individual illustrated numerous works that became staples in American storytelling. The artistic style combined with whimsical themes captivated young audiences. Works included contributions to notable publications and collaborations with acclaimed authors. The art captured the essence of childhood adventures, often portraying scenes from everyday life in a playful manner. This individual's illustrations adorned classics and helped shape the visual language of children's books during the late 19th century.

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Jacobus Kapteyn

Dutch astronomer and academic
Born
January 19th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1922 102 years ago — 71 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy, particularly in the study of star distribution and the structure of the Milky Way galaxy. Developed the Kapteyn Method, which involves statistical techniques to analyze star positions and brightness. Served as a professor at the University of Groningen and published extensively in astronomical journals. His work laid the groundwork for later developments in galactic astronomy.

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Giuseppe Allamano

Italian Roman Catholic priest and founder
Born
January 21st, 1851 174 years ago
Died
1926 99 years ago — 75 years old

Became a priest in the Congregation of the Mission in 1875. Founded the Consolata Missionaries in 1901, focusing on missionary work in Africa. Established various missionary projects that provided education and healthcare. Influenced the training and spiritual formation of many missionaries. Worked extensively in promoting the Catholic faith and the missionary spirit in Italy and abroad.

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Durham Stevens

American lawyer and diplomat
Born
February 1st, 1851 174 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1908 116 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1851, this individual served as an American lawyer and diplomat. His diplomatic career included a prominent role as a Special Commissioner to the Hawaiian Islands, where he worked on relations between the United States and Hawaii during a critical period of annexation discussions. He held the position of U.S. Minister to the Kingdom of Hawaii from 1893 to 1898, navigating complex political landscapes and international treaties. Throughout his legal career, he contributed to various legal practices and discussions regarding U.S. law, with a focus on the implications of overseas territories. His work laid the groundwork for subsequent diplomatic interactions with Pacific nations.

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José Guadalupe Posada

Mexican engraver, illustrator, and caricaturist
Born
February 2nd, 1851 174 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1913 112 years ago — 61 years old

An influential engraver and illustrator, contributed significantly to Mexican popular culture through visual art. Worked extensively in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, creating illustrations for books, newspapers, and broadsides. Developed a distinctive style characterized by calaveras, or skeletons, which conveyed social and political commentary. The art reflected the complexities of Mexican society and culture during a time of upheaval, particularly surrounding the Mexican Revolution. His works remain iconic representations of Mexican identity and tradition.

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Spiru Haret

Romanian mathematician and politician
Born
February 15th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
1912 113 years ago — 61 years old

Contributions to mathematics, astronomy, and education occurred during a prominent political career. Served as the 55th Minister of Internal Affairs in Romania. Advocated for educational reform and modernization of the school system. Haret’s work in astronomy included studies on celestial mechanics and publishing notable scientific works. His influence extended to various cultural and scientific organizations that promoted education in Romania.

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Alexandros Papadiamantis

Greek author and poet, wrote 'The Murderess'
Born
March 4th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1911 114 years ago — 59 years old

An influential Greek author and poet emerged in the late 19th century. Primarily wrote novels and short stories, often reflecting social issues of his time. 'The Murderess', published in 1903, gained critical acclaim and is considered a significant contribution to modern Greek literature. Also wrote stories and essays that encapsulated the struggles and traditions of Greek island life, particularly on the island of Skiathos. Explored themes of love, existentialism, and the human condition throughout literary works. His unique approach blended realism with elements of folklore and mythology, influencing future generations of Greek writers. Passed away in 1911, leaving a lasting legacy on the Greek literary landscape.

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Frank Avery Hutchins

Librarian and educator, ALA president
Born
March 8th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1914 111 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent American librarian and educator, significantly contributed to library science in the early 20th century. Served as the president of the American Library Association (ALA), advocating for library expansion and improved access to information. Held various roles in academia and actively participated in the development of library standards and practices. Focused on the education of librarians and promoted the importance of libraries in community development.

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