What Happened This Year 1854

Born in 1854

Max Burckhard

Theater director and influential playwright
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1912 113 years ago — 58 years old

An Austrian theater director, contributed significantly to theatrical direction and production in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Led the Vienna Burgtheater, where numerous influential productions were staged. Worked on adapting classic plays and fostering contemporary drama, becoming a key figure in advancing theatrical arts during that period. Established a reputation for innovative stagecraft and directing techniques, which influenced future generations of directors.

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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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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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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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Anatole von Hügel

Italian ethnologist and academic
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1928 96 years ago — 74 years old

An Italian ethnologist and academic contributed significantly to ethnographic studies and the understanding of various cultures. Co-founded St Edmund's College, Cambridge, which became a notable institution for higher education. Engaged in research that emphasized the importance of ethnology and its relevance to academic disciplines. Worked on various publications that detailed observations of cultures and societies, highlighting intricate aspects of ethnographic research. His efforts in academia fostered an environment for future scholars in the field.

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Frank Bourne

British soldier, last Rorke's Drift survivor
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1945 79 years ago — 91 years old

Served as a soldier in the British Army during the Anglo-Zulu War. Fought at the Battle of Rorke's Drift in January 1879, a significant conflict in which British troops faced a larger Zulu force. Demonstrated exceptional bravery and skill in the defense of the post. Survived the battle and lived until 1945, becoming the last surviving participant of the event. Bourne's account of the battle contributed to historical understanding and remembrance of the conflict.

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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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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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Percy French

Irish songwriter and entertainer
Born
1854 171 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1920 105 years ago — 66 years old

Originated from Ireland, this individual was a prominent songwriter, entertainer, and artist, actively engaging audiences through musical performances and lyrical compositions. French became a significant figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often blending humor and social commentary in works. His songs captured the spirit of the Irish experience and reflected contemporary issues. Beyond songwriting, he also excelled in visual arts, showcasing talent in painting and illustration. His contributions to the cultural landscape of Ireland have been enduring.

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