Born in 1855
Alan Gray
An English composer and organist focused on sacred choral music. Published a significant volume of works for choir and organ, contributing greatly to the liturgical repertoire. Associated with Ely Cathedral as an organist, where many compositions were performed. Contributed to music education through various teaching positions, influencing generations of musicians.
Continue ReadingHenry B. Jackson
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 ReadingAugust Spies
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 ReadingNed Kelly
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 ReadingGeorge Bonnor
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 ReadingAlbert F. Mummery
An English mountaineer and author, recognized for pioneering climbs in the late 19th century. Focused on high-altitude ascents in the Alps and the Himalayas. Mummery authored several works on mountaineering, including "The High Alps in Winter" and is noted for his exploration of Nanga Parbat. His expeditions contributed significantly to the development of mountaineering as a sport.
Continue ReadingEdwin Hall
Contributed significantly to the fields of physics and electricity. Developed the Hall effect, which describes the behavior of electric charges in a conductor subjected to a magnetic field. This phenomenon has important applications in solid-state physics and engineering. Served as a professor at Harvard University and published extensively on the properties of magnetic fields and electric currents. Made notable contributions to understanding the effects of magnetic fields on semiconductors.
Continue ReadingFannie Barrier Williams
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.
Continue ReadingEmile Verhaeren
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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