What Happened This Year 1856

Born in 1856

Pud Galvin

Baseball player and manager
Born
December 25th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
1902 123 years ago — 46 years old

A prominent figure in 19th-century baseball, this individual played as a pitcher and later took on managerial roles. His career spanned from 1875 to 1892, during which he became the first pitcher to win 300 games in Major League Baseball. Active in several teams, including the Buffalo Bisons and the Pittsburgh Pirates, he demonstrated significant skill on the mound. Transitioning to management, he contributed to the development of the sport during its early years.

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Woodrow Wilson

28th President of the United States
Born
December 28th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1924 101 years ago — 67 years old

Influential historian and academic held the presidency from 1913 to 1921. Led the nation through World War I, advocating for a League of Nations in the post-war period. Championed reforms including the Federal Reserve Act and the Clayton Antitrust Act, which reshaped the American economic landscape. Received the Nobel Prize in Peace in 1919 for efforts in promoting peace and diplomacy. His leadership established a significant legacy in both domestic and foreign policy.

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12th Dalai Lama

Religious leader and spiritual figure
Born
December 28th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1875 150 years ago — 18 years old

The 12th Dalai Lama served as a prominent spiritual leader in Tibetan Buddhism. Significant contributions included advocating for peace, compassion, and the promotion of Tibetan culture and religion. Ascending to leadership at a young age, the Dalai Lama engaged in various political and spiritual matters for Tibet, representing the Tibetan people during challenging periods. The Dalai Lama's teachings emphasized the importance of compassion, loving-kindness, and unity among diverse communities.

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Thomas Joannes Stieltjes

Mathematician known for Stieltjes integral
Born
December 29th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1894 130 years ago — 38 years old

A mathematician with significant contributions to analysis and the theory of functions, Stieltjes worked extensively on integration and provided a generalization of the Riemann integral, now known as the Stieltjes integral. This framework facilitates the integration process for functions that are not easily handled by traditional methods. Additionally, his work on continued fractions helped advance the field of number theory. Stieltjes held academic positions in both his native Netherlands and France, influencing the study of mathematics in both countries.

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Kick Kelly

Baseball player and manager
Born
1856 169 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1926 99 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent figure in early 20th century baseball, achieved success as both a player and manager. Played for the Chicago Cubs and the Philadelphia Phillies in Major League Baseball. Transitioned into a managerial role, guiding teams such as the Philadelphia Athletics. Also served as a home plate umpire during his career, contributing to the officiating side of the sport.

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Douglas H. Johnston

Governor of the Chickasaw Nation
Born
1856 169 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1939 86 years ago — 83 years old

Served as the governor of the Chickasaw Nation, contributing to the administration and governance of the Native American tribe. Oversaw various initiatives aimed at improving the welfare and rights of Chickasaw people. Held office during a period of significant change and development within the nation.

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Charles Harold Davis

American Painter and Academic, The Hudson River School
Born
1856 169 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1933 92 years ago — 77 years old

An American painter and academic played a key role in the Hudson River School movement. Contributions to American landscape painting focused on the representation of nature with an emphasis on light and atmosphere. Served as a professor at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts where significant influence was imparted to future artists. His works often depicted serene landscapes and natural beauty, showcasing meticulous attention to detail. Participation in numerous exhibitions and acceptance into prestigious art societies marked a successful career in the art world.

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Swami Shraddhanand

Indian monk and educator
Born
1856 169 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1926 98 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent figure in the early 20th century, this individual contributed significantly to the revival of the Vedic tradition and the promotion of education among the Indian population. Founded the Gurukul Kangri University in Haridwar in 1902, emphasizing both spiritual and material education. Worked tirelessly to uplift the underprivileged sections of society and promoted social reform. Advocated for the rights of the Dalits and articulated the importance of Swadeshi.

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Edward Channing

Historian known for American History
Born
1856 169 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1931 94 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent American historian and author, significant contributions to the study of American history were made through a comprehensive handbook. This work became an essential reference for scholars and students alike. In addition to authoring several textbooks, also edited a key historical journal. Engaged in academia for many years, held a teaching position at Harvard University, influencing generations of historians. Focused on early American history, particularly the Revolutionary War and the formation of the United States. Widely respected in the field for rigorous scholarship.

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