What Happened This Year 1855

Born in 1855

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 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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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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Vsevolod Garshin

Russian author known for short stories
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1888 137 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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