What Happened This Year 1855

Born in 1855

Fannie Barrier Williams

Educator and Civil Rights Activist
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1944 81 years ago — 89 years old

An American educator and activist, contributed significantly to education and civil rights for African Americans. Advocated for racial equality and women's rights throughout her career. Worked with organizations such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the National Federation of Afro-American Women. Delivered lectures across the United States focusing on social justice, education reform, and the rights of African Americans. Served as the first African American woman to present at a national convention of a major political party.

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Emile Verhaeren

Belgian poet and playwright
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1916 108 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent Belgian poet and playwright, contributed significantly to French literature in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Explored themes of modernity, nature, and industrialization through poetic language. Wrote several acclaimed collections such as 'Les Villes tentaculaires', which examines urban life and its impact on humanity. Also authored 'Les Flammes', a work that reflects intense emotions and human experiences. His literary work garnered recognition across Europe, and he was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature multiple times.

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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.

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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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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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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.

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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.

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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.

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Hermes Rodrigues da Fonseca

Brazilian president during WWI
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1923 101 years ago — 68 years old

Served as the President of Brazil from 1910 to 1914. Implemented significant reforms in Brazil's military and infrastructure. Modernized the Brazilian army and promoted nationalism. Faced challenges such as economic instability and political unrest during tenure. After presidency, continued to influence Brazilian politics.

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