What Happened This Year 1855

Born in 1855

George Bonnor

Cricketer notable for Test matches
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1912 112 years ago — 57 years old

Played as a prominent cricketer for Australia during the late 19th century. Participated in the first Test series against England in 1877. Earned recognition as a formidable batsman and wicketkeeper, contributing significantly to the Australian side in early international cricket.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Abby Leach

Educator and author of mathematics texts
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1918 106 years ago — 63 years old

Engaged in education, particularly in mathematics. Contributed to the field through written works, including textbooks that guided teaching methods. Served as a professor at various institutions, emphasizing the importance of a rigorous approach to mathematics education. Also involved in initiatives to improve curriculum standards.

Continue Reading

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.

Continue Reading

Henry B. Jackson

British admiral during World War I
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1929 95 years ago — 74 years old

Served in the Royal Navy, achieving the rank of admiral. Participated in naval operations during World War I, contributing to various campaigns and advancements. Played a significant role in the development of naval strategy and tactics during a critical period in naval warfare. Oversaw the operations of British naval forces, demonstrating leadership and strategic acumen.

Continue Reading

E. S. Gosney

Eugenicist and philanthropist, founded Human Betterment Foundation
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1942 82 years ago — 87 years old

An American eugenicist and philanthropist founded the Human Betterment Foundation in 1928, focusing on promoting eugenics and social reform. The foundation supported sterilization policies and research related to human heredity, which were influential during the early 20th century. The work of the foundation had a significant impact on eugenics movements across the United States. Additionally, active in various social issues, promoted public awareness about hereditary problems.

Continue Reading

N. G. Chandavarkar

Indian jurist and politician
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1923 101 years ago — 68 years old

Contributed to the legal and political landscape of India. Served as a prominent jurist and participated actively in various political movements. Advocated for reforms in the legal system and played a critical role in shaping legal practices during the early 20th century. Also engaged in legislative activities and represented the interests of his constituents.

Continue Reading

George Cope

American painter and muralist
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1929 96 years ago — 74 years old

This artist specialized in painting landscapes and portraits, often depicting scenes from nature with a focus on light and color. Active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributed works to major exhibitions and received recognition for artistic contributions. Worked closely with the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, influencing many contemporaries through both teaching and artistic output. Significant works include dramatic representations of rural and urban vistas.

Continue Reading

Vsevolod Garshin

Russian author known for short stories
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1888 136 years ago — 33 years old

An influential Russian author emerged in the late 19th century, primarily known for short stories that reflect psychological depth and social themes. Many works focused on the struggles of the human condition and moral dilemmas faced by individuals. Garshin became associated with the literary movement that emphasized realism and humanism. Personal challenges, including mental health issues, profoundly affected creative output. His stories, such as 'The Three', 'The Red Flower', and 'The Signal', tackled themes of war and existential anxiety, resonating with readers of his time. His life ended tragically in 1888, yet his literary contributions continued to shape Russian literature long after.

Continue Reading