What Happened This Year 1852

Born in 1852

Frank Winfield Woolworth

Businessman who founded Woolworth's
Born
April 13th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
1919 106 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent American businessman founded the F. W. Woolworth Company, pioneering the concept of the five-and-dime store. Established the first self-service retail store model that influenced modern retail shopping. The first store opened in Utica, New York in 1879, leading to the rapid expansion of numerous locations across the United States and internationally. His business approach emphasized affordability and accessibility, creating a new shopping experience for consumers. Contributions to retail set the stage for future discount retailers.

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Cap Anson

Baseball player and manager of the Chicago Cubs
Born
April 17th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
1922 103 years ago — 70 years old

An influential figure in the history of baseball, one of the first players to gain national fame. Played primarily as a first baseman and managed the Chicago Cubs. Began career in the 1870s and was instrumental in popularizing the game during its early years. Transitioned to a managerial role while continuing to play, ultimately accumulating significant career statistics. Became the first player to reach 3,000 hits in Major League Baseball, setting a record that remained of great significance. Known for contributions both on and off the field, played a key role in establishing many of the modern rules of baseball.

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William IV

Grand Duke of Luxembourg
Born
April 22nd, 1852 172 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1912 113 years ago — 59 years old

Ruled as Grand Duke of Luxembourg from 1905 until his death in 1912. Served as military leader during World War I, overseeing the defense of the country. Actively involved in the administration and development of Luxembourg's infrastructure and culture, promoting education and economic growth during his reign.

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Santiago Ramón y Cajal

Neuroscientist, Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
May 1st, 1852 172 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1934 90 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to the understanding of the structure of the nervous system. Developed the neuron doctrine, which established that neurons are distinct entities rather than being part of a continuous network. Pioneered the use of numerous staining techniques to visualize nerve cells, which advanced the study of neuroanatomy. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1906 alongside Camillo Golgi for discoveries in the structure of the nervous system.

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Calamity Jane

Frontierswoman and scout in the Old West
Born
May 1st, 1852 172 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1903 121 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1852, this individual became a notable figure of the American frontier, recognized for her skills as a sharpshooter and professional scout. Engaging in many adventures, she often worked alongside famous figures such as Wild Bill Hickok. She participated in various military campaigns during the Indian Wars, providing valuable scouting services. Aside from her adventurous life, this person gained fame through colorful storytelling and engaging with the public, often dressing in men's attire. A personality of the Wild West, she reflected the rugged spirit of the era.

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Alice Liddell

English model and muse for literature
Born
May 4th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
1934 91 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1852, modeled for various artists and was the inspiration for the character Alice in Lewis Carroll's 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland.' Her portrait was created by prominent artists, including John Tenniel. Later, Liddell became the subject of interest in literary circles and historical studies, as her life intertwined with influential figures of the Victorian era. Her experiences and relationship with Carroll have been examined in numerous writings, shedding light on both her life and the literary context of the time. Liddell's legacy is closely associated with the beloved children's story inspired by her, establishing an enduring connection to Victorian literature.

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Charles W. Fairbanks

American Vice President during Roosevelt
Born
May 11th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the 26th Vice President of the United States from 1905 to 1909 under President Theodore Roosevelt. Previously, held a prominent position in journalism and worked as a lawyer and politician in Indiana. Chaired the Republican National Committee prior to assuming the vice presidency. Actively supported the Roosevelt administration's progressive policies during his term in office.

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Henri Julien

Canadian illustrator and cartoonist
Born
May 14th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1908 116 years ago — 56 years old

Active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, produced illustrations and cartoons that captured social and political themes of the time. Contributed extensively to publications such as the Montreal-based 'La Presse' and created iconic imagery that resonated with Canadian culture. Worked as a book illustrator, providing artwork for various literary works. His illustrations often reflected the life and times of Canadians during a period of significant change.

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Gertrude Käsebier

American photographer and portraitist
Born
May 18th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
1934 91 years ago — 82 years old

An American photographer, Käsebier specialized in portraiture and was a significant figure in photographic art in the early 20th century. She was an advocate for the fine art of photography and contributed to the promotion of women's work in the field. Käsebier became well-known for her intimate and evocative portraits, often depicting mothers and children. In 1900, she was awarded a gold medal at the Paris Exposition, showcasing her work on an international stage. Käsebier was a founding member of the Photo-Secession group and served as its first secretary, helping to elevate photography as an art form. Her legacy includes a profound influence on modern portrait photography.

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