What Happened This Year 1854

Born in 1854

Alphonse Desjardins

Canadian businessman and co-founder
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1920 104 years ago — 66 years old

Co-founded the first credit union in North America, facilitating accessible financial services for workers. Established the movement that spread cooperative banking across Canada. Promoted financial education and community development, influencing numerous financial institutions and policies. His work set the foundation for modern cooperative systems.

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Dukinfield Henry Scott

British botanist, authored many texts
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1934 91 years ago — 80 years old

A British botanist contributed significantly to the field of botany through extensive research and publications. Notable works include comprehensive texts on plant taxonomy and morphology. His research enhanced understanding of various plant species and their classifications. Held a prominent role at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, facilitating advancements in botanical studies. Participated in scientific expeditions that enriched botanical knowledge. Engaged with the scientific community to promote further exploration and study within botany.

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Samu Pecz

Architect and educator in Hungary
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1922 102 years ago — 68 years old

Contributed significantly to Hungarian architecture and education. Pecz specialized in neo-Romanesque and neo-Gothic styles, overseeing various notable projects. He educated numerous future architects and had a profound influence on architectural education in Hungary. His academic work included teaching at Budapest's Technical University, where he shaped the curriculum and direction of architectural training during a period of significant development in the field. Pecz's designs and theoretical contributions reflected the evolving architectural landscape in early 20th century Hungary.

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Christiaan de Wet

South African general and politician
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1922 103 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent figure in South African history, served as a general during the Second Boer War. Elected State President of the Orange Free State, played a significant role in the conflict and later in politics. After the war, worked on reconciliation and reconstruction efforts in the country. Authored several works detailing military strategies and experiences during the war, contributing to the historical record of the period. His leadership during wartime and subsequent political career helped shape the future of the region.

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Jōkichi Takamine

Chemist known for isolating adrenaline
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1922 102 years ago — 68 years old

A Japanese-American chemist and academic contributed significantly to the field of biochemistry. Developed a method for isolating adrenaline in 1901, which has been essential for medical research and applications. Also, made advancements in the understanding of other hormones. Established a successful career in the United States, where he held various academic and research positions. Contributed to the creation of pharmaceuticals that are still in use today.

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Petros Protopapadakis

Greek mathematician and Prime Minister
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1922 102 years ago — 68 years old

Served as the 107th Prime Minister of Greece. Contributed to the field of mathematics while also engaging in political activities. Held the office during a turbulent period in Greek history, addressing pressing national issues and forming government policies. Focused on modernization and economic challenges facing Greece.

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Robert Borden

8th Prime Minister of Canada
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1937 87 years ago — 83 years old

Served as Canada's 8th Prime Minister from 1911 to 1920. Played a significant role during World War I, leading Canada to participate more actively in the war effort. Implemented the Military Service Act, introducing conscription. Oversaw the transition of Canada to a more autonomous nation within the British Empire, advocating for Canadian representation in international affairs. His government also saw the introduction of income tax as a temporary measure for war financing.

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Flying Hawk

American warrior and historian
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1931 93 years ago — 77 years old

A member of the Sauk Tribe, contributed to the preservation of Native American culture and history. Served as a warrior and later became an educator, sharing knowledge of Native American traditions and heritage. Documented the experiences and narratives of his people, playing a pivotal role in historical accounts.

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John Riley Banister

American cowboy and police officer
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1918 106 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent figure in the Old West, Banister worked as a cowboy before transitioning to law enforcement. As a police officer, he served in various capacities including as a deputy sheriff, contributing to the establishment of order in the rapidly developing western territories. His career spanned several significant years during which he witnessed and participated in the cultural shifts of the American frontier.

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