What Happened This Year 1854

Born in 1854

Maurice Lecoq

French target shooter and Olympic athlete
Born
March 26th, 1854 170 years ago
Died
1925 100 years ago — 71 years old

Achieved prominence in the sport of shooting, representing France in international competitions. Competed in the 1900 Summer Olympics held in Paris. Contributed to the development of target shooting in France and participated in various shooting championships throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Giovanni Battista Grassi

Italian entomologist and zoologist
Born
March 27th, 1854 170 years ago
Died
1925 100 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent Italian physician and zoologist, contributions focused on entomology. Conducted significant research on malaria, identifying mosquito vectors responsible for transmission. Investigated various species, advancing knowledge in parasitology and entomology. Also involved in the study of aquatic arthropods and authored numerous scientific papers on his findings.

Continue Reading

Hugh Massie

Australian cricketer, Test Player
Born
April 11th, 1854 170 years ago
Died
1938 87 years ago — 84 years old

A cricketer played for Australia during the late 19th century. Participated in eleven Test matches from 1882 to 1886. Contributed significantly as a batsman and wicketkeeper. Played for the New South Wales state team, showcasing skills and dedication to the sport.

Continue Reading

Lucy Craft Laney

Educator and founder of Haines School
Born
April 13th, 1854 170 years ago
Died
1933 92 years ago — 79 years old

An American educator established the Haines Normal and Industrial School in Augusta, Georgia, focusing on African American education in the late 19th century. After completing education at the Atlanta University, significant efforts centered on training teachers and providing vocational training for students. The institution served as a critical educational center for African American youth, promoting both academic achievements and practical skills. This work contributed to broader educational reform and better opportunities for African Americans during a time of segregation.

Continue Reading

Ludwig Levy

German architect with notable designs
Born
April 18th, 1854 170 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1907 117 years ago — 53 years old

An architect focused on designing various buildings within Germany, contributing significantly to architectural trends in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. May be recognized for integrating artistic elements into functional structures, illustrating the blend of utility and aesthetics in architecture. His works reflected contemporary styles and showcased innovative approaches to urban development.

Continue Reading

William Stang

Bishop with significant influence in the Church
Born
April 21st, 1854 170 years ago
Died
1907 118 years ago — 53 years old

A German-American bishop, played a pivotal role in the development of the Catholic Church in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Ordained a priest in 1878, served in various capacities before becoming the first bishop of the Diocese of Winona, Minnesota. Focused on educational development, established schools and promoted the importance of religious education for the immigrant community. Played an integral part in the construction of churches and parishes, aiming to provide spiritual guidance and community support for Catholic families. Advocated for the rights of immigrants and emphasized the importance of integration into American society.

Continue Reading

Henri La Fontaine

Belgian lawyer and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
April 22nd, 1854 170 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1943 81 years ago — 89 years old

A prominent lawyer and author, contributed to international law and peace efforts. Instrumental in the establishment of the International Peace Bureau and served as its president. Advocated for disarmament and the peaceful resolution of conflicts, significantly impacting legal frameworks regarding peace. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1913 for efforts in promoting peace and understanding among nations.

Continue Reading

Charles Sumner Tainter

Engineer and inventor of the Graphophone
Born
April 25th, 1854 170 years ago
Died
1940 85 years ago — 86 years old

An engineer and inventor contributed significantly to the development of sound recording technologies. Tainter co-invented the Graphophone, an early phonograph, which utilized wax cylinders for recording sound. This innovation represented a major advancement in audio recording and playback. Tainter also held several patents related to sound technology and played a key role in the establishment of the Columbia Phonograph Company, promoting the commercial use of the Graphophone. His work laid the foundation for future advancements in audio technology, influencing the evolution of music and sound recording industries.

Continue Reading

Hertha Marks Ayrton

Engineer and physicist, first woman member of the IEE
Born
April 28th, 1854 170 years ago
Died
1923 102 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1854, engaged in engineering, mathematics, and physics. Became the first woman to present a paper to the Institution of Electrical Engineers in 1899. Recognized for contributions to the study of electric arcs and alternating currents. Pioneered research that resulted in notable advances in electrical engineering. Received the Hughes Medal from the Royal Society in 1899 for work on electrical phenomena. Actively involved in the women's suffrage movement and advocated for women's education in engineering and the sciences.

Continue Reading