What Happened This Year 1855

Born in 1855

Nikolaos Triantafyllakos

Greek politician, Prime Minister
Born
November 8th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 84 years old

Served as Prime Minister of Greece during the early 20th century. Led the country during a challenging period marked by political instability and economic difficulties. Focused on reforming governmental structures and improving public administration. His tenure included navigating international relations and domestic challenges.

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Stevan Sremac

Serbian author and activist
Born
November 11th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
1906 119 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1855, contributed significantly to Serbian literature, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Wrote numerous short stories that reflected the experiences and challenges faced by ordinary people in Serbia. Gained prominence with works like "Pera Detlic" and "Belgrade Stories," capturing the essence of urban life and culture. Served as an editor for various newspapers, influencing public discourse during his time. Engaged in social issues, advocating for cultural awareness and education.

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Josiah Royce

American Philosopher, 'The Philosophy of Loyalty'
Born
November 20th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1855, this American philosopher focused on idealism and the nature of loyalty. A significant figure in the development of American philosophy, his work contributed to discussions on community and individual experiences. He served as a professor at Harvard University and wrote extensively, with 'The Philosophy of Loyalty' being one of his most influential texts. His philosophical ideas explored the relationships between self, society, and the concepts of loyalty and community.

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John Evans

Politician, 21st Premier of Tasmania
Born
December 1st, 1855 169 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1943 81 years ago — 87 years old

Born in England and later settling in Australia, served as the 21st Premier of Tasmania. Held office during a period of economic development and social reform. Focused on public works and education, contributing significantly to the infrastructure of the state. His administration also addressed labor issues, laying the groundwork for future social policies.

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Clinton Hart Merriam

Zoologist and ornithologist; conducted studies
Born
December 5th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1942 82 years ago — 86 years old

An American zoologist, ornithologist, and entomologist made significant contributions to the understanding of North American wildlife. Played a pivotal role in establishing wildlife conservation efforts. Developed the concept of the 'life zone,' which categorizes environments based on elevation and climate. Served as the chief of the U.S. Biological Survey and contributed to the founding of the American Ornithologists' Union. Authored numerous scientific papers and books on bird behavior and ecology.

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August Kitzberg

Estonian author and poet
Born
December 29th, 1855 169 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1927 97 years ago — 71 years old

An Estonian author and poet contributed significantly to Estonian literature. Worked primarily in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, focusing on themes relevant to Estonian culture and identity. Wrote plays, short stories, and poetry, with a prominent emphasis on realism. Translated works from other languages, enriching the Estonian literary landscape. His efforts in literature played a vital role in the preservation and promotion of the Estonian language during a time of national awakening.

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Giovanni Pascoli

Italian poet and scholar with major works
Born
December 31st, 1855 169 years ago
Died
1912 113 years ago — 57 years old

Born in Italy in 1855, a significant poet and scholar of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His poetry dealt with themes of nature, rural life, and the human condition, reflecting personal experiences and universal emotions. Contributed to the Symbolist movement in Italy, blending personal narratives with broader societal themes. His collections, such as 'Myricae' and 'Poemi del Fanciullo,' established a foundation for modern Italian poetry. Emphasized simplicity in language and depth in emotion, influencing later generations of poets. Also served as a professor of Italian literature at the University of Bologna.

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August Spies

American journalist and labor activist
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1887 137 years ago — 32 years old

Worked as a journalist and was a key figure in the labor movement in the United States. Played a significant role in organizing the Haymarket affair, which was a peaceful rally in support of workers striking for an eight-hour workday. Spies was arrested and later executed following a highly publicized trial, becoming a martyr for labor rights. Advocated for anarchism and socialism, contributing to various labor publications during his lifetime.

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Ned Kelly

Australian bushranger and outlaw
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1880 144 years ago — 25 years old

A prominent figure in Australian history, known for violent confrontations with law enforcement during the late 19th century. Operated as a bushranger in Victoria, leading his gang in a series of robberies and conflicts. Captured in 1880 after a final shootout at Glenrowan, the individual was tried and executed for murder. The legacy encompasses both infamy and a sense of folk hero status, deeply rooted in Australian culture.

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