What Happened This Year 1854

Born in 1854

James George Frazer

Anthropologist and cultural theorist
Born
January 1st, 1854 171 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1941 83 years ago — 87 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of anthropology, particularly through the publication of 'The Golden Bough'. This work explored myth, ritual, and beliefs across cultures, examining the evolution of religious thought. The scholarship focused on comparing various belief systems and highlighted the similarities between ancient and modern practices. Also served as a prominent academic figure, influencing the field with theories relating to magic, religion, and culture.

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Thomas Waddell

Irish-Australian politician and Premier
Born
January 1st, 1854 171 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1940 84 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the 15th Premier of New South Wales, assuming office in 1891. Represented the Labor Party and was notable for his advocacy of workers' rights and land reform. Held various government positions prior to premiership, including Minister for Public Works. His leadership during a time of economic difficulty was marked by efforts to address labor issues and infrastructural development.

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Jennie Jerome

Socialite and mother of Winston Churchill
Born
January 9th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
1921 104 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Brooklyn, a prominent figure in British society and a socialite, played a significant role in high society during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Married Lord Randolph Churchill, a notable British politician, and became the mother of Winston Churchill, who later served as British Prime Minister. Actively participated in political discussions and hosted many influential figures at her gatherings. Her connections and influence were vital in shaping her son's political career.

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Ramón Corral

Mexican politician and general, Vice President
Born
January 10th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
1912 113 years ago — 58 years old

Served as the 6th Vice President of Mexico from 1904 to 1911. Participated actively in military and political affairs during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Held significant influence during the presidency of Porfirio Díaz. Appointed various military and political roles, shaping military strategy and governance in Mexico.

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Thomas A. Watson

Assistant to Alexander Graham Bell
Born
January 18th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
1934 91 years ago — 80 years old

Assisted Alexander Graham Bell in his experiments with the electric telephone. Contributed to the first successful voice transmission on March 10, 1876, when Bell famously said, 'Mr. Watson, come here; I want to see you'. Worked with Bell in developing various telecommunication devices, becoming a key figure in early telephone history. Later involved in the establishment of the Bell Telephone Company, which played a vital role in the expansion of telephone service across the United States.

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Karl Julius Beloch

German classical historian and economist
Born
January 21st, 1854 171 years ago
Died
1929 96 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed significantly to the understanding of classical antiquity and the economy of ancient Rome. Conducted extensive research and published numerous works that focused on the social and economic aspects of Greek and Roman history. His analytical approach provided a framework for integrating historical narrative with economic theory. Elevated the study of demographics in ancient societies, emphasizing quantitative analysis. Worked as a professor and influential in shaping academic discourse within the field of history.

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Eusapia Palladino

Italian spiritualist and medium
Born
January 21st, 1854 171 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1854, a prominent spiritualist and medium, gained attention in the late 19th and early 20th centuries for performances that showcased alleged psychic phenomena. Conducted numerous séances, often attended by scientists and skeptics, which sparked significant interest in parapsychology. Demonstrated abilities purported to include table-tilting and spirit communication, notably working with the Society for Psychical Research. Palladino's work challenged contemporary views on spirituality, science, and the paranormal, leading to extensive debates regarding the authenticity of spiritualism and psychical research.

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David Emmanuel

Mathematician and academic recognized for research
Born
January 31st, 1854 171 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Romania, a mathematician and academic contributed significantly to the field of mathematics. Worked on number theory and algebraic structures, publishing several research papers that advanced the understanding of mathematical concepts. Held academic positions at various institutions, influencing many students and aspiring mathematicians throughout an extensive career. His research laid groundwork for future developments in the discipline.

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Aletta Jacobs

Physician and suffrage activist
Born
February 9th, 1854 171 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1929 95 years ago — 75 years old

First woman to officially register for university education in the Netherlands. Obtained a medical degree in 1879, becoming the first female physician in the country. Advocated for women's suffrage and reproductive rights. Played a significant role in the women's rights movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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