What Happened This Year 1855

People Who Died in 1855

Charles Hotham

English-Australian soldier and politician
Born
January 14th, 1806 219 years ago
Died
1855 170 years ago — 49 years old

An English-Australian soldier and politician, served as the first Governor of Victoria from 1854 to 1855. Born in England and educated at the Royal Military Academy, served in the British Army before immigrating to Australia. During tenure as governor, oversaw the colony's response to the gold rush and managed the growing population and economic changes in Victoria. Known for efforts to stabilize governance and promote infrastructure development amid rapid growth.

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Josef Munzinger

Swiss lawyer and 3rd President
Born
November 11th, 1791 233 years ago
Died
1855 170 years ago — 64 years old

A Swiss lawyer and politician served as the 3rd President of the Swiss Confederation. Contributed significantly to the legal and political frameworks in Switzerland during the early 19th century. Engaged in various political activities that shaped the direction of the nation in a period marked by change and development.

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Henri Druey

Swiss lawyer and politician, 2nd President
Born
April 12th, 1799 225 years ago
Died
1855 170 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent Swiss lawyer and politician, served as the 2nd President of the Swiss Confederation in 1848. Played a significant role in the drafting of the first Federal Constitution of Switzerland. Druey's tenure included a focus on strengthening the federal government and promoting national unity. His advocacy for civil liberties and education reform also marked his political career during a transformative period in Swiss history.

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Mihály Vörösmarty

Hungarian poet and literary figure
Born
December 1st, 1800 224 years ago
Died
1855 170 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent Hungarian poet, contributions spanned several literary movements, primarily Romantism. Vörösmarty gained recognition for works that reflected Hungarian nationalism and themes of love, nature, and heroism. His poem 'Szózat' became an important national anthem-like piece, symbolizing Hungarian identity and pride. Vörösmarty also engaged in political and cultural discussions of his time, often advocating for the Hungarian language and literature's development.

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William Poole

Boxer and gangster, fought in the 1850s
Born
July 24th, 1821 203 years ago
Died
1855 170 years ago — 34 years old

An American boxer and gangster, became a prominent figure in the boxing world during the 1850s. Gained notoriety for participating in prizefights and cultivating a reputation within the criminal underworld of New York City. Poole fought notable opponents and was recognized for his fierce personality both in and out of the ring. His involvement in organized crime contributed to his legacy as a controversial character in American history.

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Sunthorn Phu

Thai poet and literary figure
Born
June 26th, 1786 238 years ago
Died
1855 170 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1786, a prominent Thai poet who significantly influenced Thai literature. Active during the Rattanakosin period, he wrote in a style that made poetry accessible to the general public. His most acclaimed work, 'Phra Aphai Mani,' is an epic poem combining fantasy and moral lessons, showcasing both traditional Thai themes and narrative techniques. Phu's contributions to poetry had a lasting effect on subsequent generations of poets. His mastery of language and storytelling helped establish a foundation for modern Thai literature.

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