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 149 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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Louis Gustave Binger

French general and explorer
Born
1856 169 years ago
Died
November 10th, 1936 88 years ago — 80 years old

Acquired significant knowledge about West Africa through exploration, particularly in the regions now known as Côte d'Ivoire and Mali. Served as a military officer before embarking on exploratory missions that contributed to the understanding and mapping of the area during the late 19th century. Played a key role in French colonial expansion in West Africa, and his works provided valuable insights into local cultures, geography, and resources.

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Donát Bánki

Hungarian engineer with carburetor invention
Born
1856 169 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1922 102 years ago — 66 years old

An engineer, inventor, and educator contributed significantly to the field of mechanical engineering. Developed the Bánki carburetor, which improved the efficiency of internal combustion engines. Conducted research in gas engines and thermodynamics, advocating for precision engineering in Hungary's industrial development. Held various academic positions and influenced the education of future engineers through teaching and publications.

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Hans von Bartels

German painter and educator
Born
1856 169 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1913 111 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent painter and educator, this individual contributed significantly to the art scene in Germany during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His artwork primarily focused on historical and mythological subjects, showcasing a mastery of composition and color. In addition to painting, he served as an influential educator, shaping the skills of aspiring artists and promoting artistic techniques. His legacy includes a commitment to the cultural development of the arts in Germany, through both his creative works and educational endeavors.

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William Wallace Denslow

Illustrator of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz
Born
1856 169 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1915 109 years ago — 59 years old

An American illustrator and caricaturist, primarily recognized for the beloved illustrations in L. Frank Baum's 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.' Denslow's vibrant and imaginative artwork greatly contributed to the book's popularity and charm. In addition to 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz,' he created illustrations for other works, including 'The Royal Book of Oz' and 'Denslow's Mother Goose.' His style combined whimsical elements with bold colors, making a lasting impression on children's literature. Throughout his career, Denslow worked on various projects, including advertising illustrations and theatrical productions, establishing himself as a prominent figure in American illustration during the early 20th century.

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Henry C. Berghoff

German-American politician
Born
1856 169 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1925 99 years ago — 69 years old

Served as a prominent figure in local politics. Played a key role in establishing various community initiatives and improving public services. Actively participated in discussions regarding labor rights and public welfare. Contributed to the growth of civic infrastructure and local governance.

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