What Happened This Year 1852

Born in 1852

Edward Bouchet

Physicist and educator, first Black PhD
Born
September 15th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 66 years old

Graduated from Yale University in 1874, becoming the first African American to earn a doctorate in a science field. Bouchet's dissertation focused on the conduction of electricity through gases. He taught physics and chemistry for several years at various institutions, including the Institute for Colored Youth in Philadelphia. His career largely focused on education and mentorship in the sciences, aiming to increase access to education for African Americans during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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James Carroll Beckwith

Painter and educator based in America
Born
September 23rd, 1852 172 years ago
Died
October 24th, 1917 107 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent American painter and academic, this individual contributed to the field of art through both creation and education. Studied at the National Academy of Design and was influenced by the Barbizon school. Became a member of the American Academy in Rome, furthering studies in European art and techniques. Served as a professor at various institutions, emphasizing the importance of observational skills in painting. Works largely focused on portraits and landscapes, showcasing a unique interplay of light and color.

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William Stewart Halsted

American surgeon and medical innovator
Born
September 23rd, 1852 172 years ago
Died
1922 103 years ago — 70 years old

An influential physician and surgeon, contributions significantly advanced surgical practices and anesthesia methods. Introduced the concept of surgical residency, establishing rigorous training for surgeons. Pioneered techniques for mastectomy and hernia repair, enhancing patient outcomes. Instrumental in the adoption of aseptic surgical techniques, greatly reducing infection rates.

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Henri Moissan

Chemist, Nobel Prize laureate in Chemistry
Born
September 28th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1907 118 years ago — 54 years old

A French chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the understanding of chemical processes and elements. Conducted groundbreaking research on fluorine, isolating this previously unexamined element for the first time. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1906 for the development of the electric arc furnace and the extraction of fluorine from minerals. Led scientific advancements in high-temperature chemistry and materials.

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John French

British Army officer, 1st Earl of Ypres
Born
September 28th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
1925 100 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1852, served as a British Army officer and became the 1st Earl of Ypres. Played a significant role in World War I, commanding the British Expeditionary Force during the early battles on the Western Front. His leadership in the Battle of Ypres in 1915 was particularly notable, as it involved the first large-scale use of poison gas. Held various positions throughout a lengthy military career, contributing to military strategies and operations.

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Charles Villiers Stanford

Irish composer and conductor
Born
September 30th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1924 100 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent composer and conductor from Ireland, contributed significantly to both sacred and secular music. Stanford studied at the Royal Irish Academy of Music and later at Trinity College, Cambridge. He was a key figure in the development of British music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with compositions spanning various genres including symphonies, chamber music, and choral works. Served as a professor at the Royal College of Music in London, where he influenced a generation of British composers. His compositions often incorporated elements of folk music and showcased rich harmonic language.

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William Ramsay

Scottish chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
October 2nd, 1852 172 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1916 108 years ago — 63 years old

A Scottish chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of noble gases. Conducted groundbreaking work on the identification and isolation of argon, neon, krypton, and xenon. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1904 for discoveries in the chemistry of rare gases. Served as a professor at University College London and held various academic positions throughout an extensive career.

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Hermann Emil Fischer

Chemist, Nobel Prize in Chemistry 1902
Born
October 9th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
1919 106 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Germany, a chemist contributed significantly to the understanding of carbohydrates and purines. Fischer's work on the synthesis of nucleic acids and the study of enzyme activity laid the foundation for modern biochemistry. The synthesis of carbohydrates, particularly glucose, marked a milestone in the field. The research advanced knowledge of molecular structure and bonding, influencing future scientific studies. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1902, recognized for contributions to sugar chemistry and work in synthesis reactions. Also held a professorship in chemistry at the University of Berlin where research promoted further advancements in organic chemistry.

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Carl von In der Maur

Governor of Liechtenstein
Born
October 16th, 1852 172 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1913 111 years ago — 61 years old

Served as the governor of Liechtenstein during pivotal years in the late 19th century. Focused on modernizing the administration and enhancing the legal framework of the principality. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to strengthen relations with neighboring countries. His tenure contributed to the stability and governance of Liechtenstein, shaping its political landscape during a critical period.

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