What Happened This Year 1855

Born in 1855

Paul Deschanel

Politician, 11th President of France
Born
February 13th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
1922 103 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the 11th President of France from February to September 1920. Deschanel had a long career in politics, holding various roles including Minister of Education and Deputy of the Seine. His presidency was marked by a period of political instability in France following World War I. A significant event during his term involved a dramatic incident where he fell from a train while traveling, which raised questions about his mental state and fitness for office. Resigned from presidency after these public incidents and health issues.

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Frank Harris

Irish author and journalist, wrote 'The Yellow Book'
Born
February 14th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1931 93 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1855, this individual was an influential author and journalist. Played a significant role in the literary scene of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Served as the editor of 'The Continental Monthly' and contributed to various periodicals. Authored notable works, including the memoirs and biographies of prominent figures. Gained recognition for unique editorial style and contributions to literature. Engaged in public debates and discussions on social issues, reflecting personal views and literary insights in various writings.

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Jean Jules Jusserand

French historian and diplomat
Born
February 18th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1932 92 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent historian and author, served as the French Ambassador to the United States from 1902 to 1925. Contributed significantly to Franco-American relations and was involved in various diplomatic efforts during World War I. Authored several works on American history and culture, including 'With Americans of Past and Present Days', which examined the connections between France and the United States.

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Nishinoumi Kajirō I

Japanese sumo wrestler, 16th Yokozuna
Born
February 19th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1908 116 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1855, this individual became a prominent sumo wrestler, achieving the rank of Yokozuna, the highest title in the sport. Rising to fame during the late Edo period, the wrestler competed fiercely and displayed significant skill on the dohyo. The sumo career spanned several years, during which victories and accolades solidified a legacy in Japanese wrestling history. Retiring from active competition, the wrestler remained involved in the sport as a coach, influencing the next generation of athletes. The contributions to sumo wrestling have been recognized through various means, highlighting the achievements in a competitive environment.

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Cesário Verde

Portuguese poet and author
Born
February 25th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
1886 139 years ago — 31 years old

Born in Lisbon, significant contributions to Portuguese literature included a focus on modern themes and everyday life. Poetry often reflected urban experiences and social environments. Produced a compilation of poems in the book 'O Livro de Cesário Verde', which showcased unique literary style and innovative use of language. Worked within the 19th-century literary movement that sought to update and revitalize traditions. Despite facing limited recognition during lifetime, posthumous acclaim has elevated stature within Portuguese literary canon.

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Percival Lowell

Astronomer and mathematician with Mars theories
Born
March 13th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1916 108 years ago — 61 years old

An American astronomer and mathematician pursued the study of Mars in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Lowell founded the Lowell Observatory in Arizona in 1894, where he conducted extensive observations of Mars, leading to his theory of Martian canals. These ideas spurred public interest in the possibility of life on Mars and fueled science fiction. Additionally, Lowell contributed to the understanding of celestial bodies and was instrumental in promoting the search for Planet X, which later led to the discovery of Pluto. His advocacy for planetary science left a lasting legacy in the field.

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Dorothy Tennant

British painter; notable for painting landscapes
Born
March 22nd, 1855 169 years ago
Died
1926 99 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1855, this British painter specialized in landscapes and was active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Her work often reflected the beauty of the English countryside, utilizing vivid colors and dynamic brush strokes. She exhibited works at prestigious venues, including the Royal Academy. Beyond her painting, she contributed to the artistic community through involvement in various local art societies and events. Her dedication to her craft resulted in a significant body of work that remains appreciated in the study of British art.

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Olive Schreiner

South African author and feminist activist
Born
March 24th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
December 11th, 1920 104 years ago — 65 years old

An influential writer and social activist, contributed significantly to literature and feminist thought. Authored the novel 'The Story of an African Farm', which gained recognition for its exploration of themes such as gender and social structure in South Africa. Actively engaged in political issues, including women's rights and anti-war movements, emphasizing the importance of equality and social justice.

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Andrew W. Mellon

American banker and Secretary of the Treasury
Born
March 24th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
1937 88 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the 49th Secretary of the Treasury from 1921 to 1932, overseeing significant economic policies during the 1920s. Played a crucial role in shaping fiscal policy and promoting economic growth after World War I. As a banker and financier, established one of the largest private banks in the U.S. and was instrumental in the creation of the Mellon Foundation, supporting the arts and education. Contributed to various international negotiations and served as ambassador to the United Kingdom.

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