What Happened This Year 1855

Born in 1855

Simon-Napoléon Parent

Canadian politician, 12th Premier of Quebec
Born
September 12th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1920 104 years ago — 64 years old

A Canadian lawyer and politician served as the 12th Premier of Quebec from 1900 to 1904. Parent played a significant role in shaping the province's political landscape during his tenure. Prior to his premiership, he held various parliamentary roles and was involved in local governance. His administration focused on modernizing Quebec's infrastructure and improving education systems. After leaving office, continued engagement in Canadian politics and law was evident.

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Arthur Nikisch

Hungarian conductor and music educator
Born
October 12th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1922 103 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent conductor and music educator, contributed significantly to classical music in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Served as the principal conductor of the Berlin Philharmonic and the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Directed world premieres of major works, including pieces by Richard Strauss and Gustav Mahler. Influenced the training of conductors and orchestral performance.

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Samad bey Mehmandarov

Azerbaijani-Russian general and minister
Born
October 16th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1931 94 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the 3rd Minister of Defense of Azerbaijan from 1918 to 1920. Contributed to the establishment of the Azerbaijani military forces following the declaration of independence. Played a significant role during the territorial conflicts involving Azerbaijan, particularly in the conflict with Armenia. Engaged in military and political activities in both Azerbaijan and Russia, influencing the course of military strategies in the region during a tumultuous period.

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James S. Sherman

Vice President of the United States
Born
October 24th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1912 112 years ago — 57 years old

Served as the 27th Vice President of the United States from 1909 until 1912 under President William Howard Taft. Before assuming the vice presidency, held various political offices including Representative in the U.S. House for New York's 34th congressional district. Participated actively in the Republican Party and held influence in New York politics. His tenure as Vice President included significant events leading up to the presidential election of 1912, which he did not survive to see due to his death during the campaign.

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Paul Bruchési

Canadian Archbishop of Montreal
Born
October 29th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1939 85 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the Archbishop of Montreal from 1897 until death in 1939. Bruchési was influential in the Roman Catholic Church in Canada and played a significant role in its expansion and modernization during the early 20th century. He worked to improve education and social services through the Church and was actively involved in addressing the issues facing urban communities in Montreal. His advocacy for higher education led to the establishment of institutions that furthered the Catholic mission in Canadian society.

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Paul-Jacques Curie

French physicist and academic specializing in physics
Born
October 29th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
1941 84 years ago — 86 years old

Graduated from the École Polytechnique and the École des Mines, specialized in various fields of physics and contributed to theoretical studies. Collaborated with notable physicists, particularly in the study of piezoelectricity and thermoelectricity. Served as a professor and mentored future scientists. Published influential papers that advanced the understanding of physical phenomena.

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Henrik Schück

Swedish historian and academic author
Born
November 2nd, 1855 169 years ago
Died
1947 78 years ago — 92 years old

A prominent historian and academic in Sweden, contributions focused on the development of Swedish history. Served as a professor of history and made significant contributions to historical research and education. Authored multiple books, enhancing the understanding of Sweden's past and its position in European history. Engaged in various historical societies and organizations, promoting history as a vital field of study.

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Eugene V. Debs

Union leader and socialist politician
Born
November 5th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1926 98 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1855, a prominent figure in the American labor movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Debs helped found the American Railway Union and led the Pullman Strike of 1894, which resulted in a nationwide railroad boycott. His involvement in socialist politics led to the establishment of the Socialist Party of America, where he served as its presidential candidate multiple times. Debs advocated for workers' rights and sought reforms in labor laws and social justice. His anti-war stance during World War I resulted in a conviction under the Espionage Act, leading to imprisonment. Debs' life reflected a commitment to labor rights and political activism until his death in 1926.

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Léon Teisserenc de Bort

French meteorologist and aeronaut
Born
November 5th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1913 112 years ago — 57 years old

Contributions to meteorology included pioneering studies on the upper atmosphere. Conducted balloon experiments, reaching altitudes of over 10 kilometers. Established the concept of the tropopause, significantly advancing understanding of atmospheric layers. Published key research that influenced future work in meteorology and atmospheric science.

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