What Happened This Year 1856

People Who Died in 1856

Robert Schumann

Composer of Romantic piano music
Born
June 8th, 1810 215 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1856 169 years ago — 46 years old

A 19th-century composer and music critic, created significant contributions to the Romantic era of music. He founded the 'Neue Zeitschrift für Musik', which celebrated new music and composers. Schumann composed numerous works, including symphonies, piano pieces, and chamber music. Notable pieces include 'Carnaval', 'Kinderszenen', and 'Dichterliebe'. Schumann faced personal struggles, including mental health issues, which influenced his later works. His music emphasizes lyrical melodies and emotional depth.

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Mary Anne Schimmelpenninck

English author and activist
Born
November 25th, 1778 246 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1856 168 years ago — 77 years old

An English author and activist focused on social reform and children's education. Authored several works including 'Letters to My Children' which discussed educational practices and moral development. Engaged in philanthropic efforts, founding schools and advocating for the improvement of children's welfare. Actively involved in the women's rights movement and contributed to discussions on suffrage and education reform throughout her life.

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Gilbert Abbott à Beckett

English journalist and author of comedies
Born
January 9th, 1811 214 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1856 168 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent English journalist and author, played a significant role in the development of comedic literature in the 19th century. Contributed to 'Punch' magazine, where witty observations and satire flourished. Wrote several successful plays, with 'The Lost Chick' as one of the more recognized works. Engaged in various literary projects throughout a prolific career in journalism, blending humor with commentary on societal issues.

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William Sprague III

American lawyer and 14th Governor of Rhode Island
Born
November 3rd, 1799 225 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1856 168 years ago — 56 years old

Served as the 14th Governor of Rhode Island from 1860 to 1863. Practiced law after studying at Yale College. Contributed to the establishment of various state institutions. Participated in the state government during the Civil War period.

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Paul Delaroche

French painter known for historical works
Born
July 17th, 1797 228 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1856 168 years ago — 59 years old

Born in France in 1797, this painter was prominent in the 19th century for his historical and academic art. He studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and won acclaim for his masterful use of color and detail in large-scale history paintings. His works often depicted poignant historical moments, blending dramatic storytelling with realism. One of the most notable works is "The Execution of Lady Jane Grey," which exemplifies his ability to evoke emotion through composition. Delaroche also contributed to the academic art scene, influencing future generations of artists. He was a member of the Académie des Beaux-Arts and served as a professor at the École des Beaux-Arts, shaping the direction of French painting during his lifetime until his death in 1856.

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Farkas Bolyai

Hungarian mathematician and academic
Born
February 9th, 1775 250 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1856 168 years ago — 81 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of non-Euclidean geometry. Established mathematical theories alongside his son, János Bolyai. Served as a professor at the University of Marosvásárhely. Published works that laid foundational insights for later mathematical advancements, influencing both geometry and philosophy of mathematics.

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Theobald Mathew

Temperance movement leader in Ireland
Born
1790 235 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1856 168 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent Irish social reformer led the temperance movement in the 19th century. Established the Irish Total Abstinence Society in 1838, advocating for alcohol prohibition. Promoted temperance through speeches, pamphlets, and personal example. Played a significant role in the social reform movements of the time, aiming to reduce the impact of alcohol on society.

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Francesco Bentivegna

Italian rebel leader and activist
Born
March 4th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1856 168 years ago — 36 years old

Born in 1820, a prominent figure in the Italian unification movement, served as a leader of revolutionary actions in Sicily. Worked alongside Giuseppe Garibaldi during critical uprisings. Participated in the Sicilian revolution against the Bourbon monarchy, which sought to consolidate Italian independence. His engagements were characterized by military campaigns aimed at liberating Sicily from foreign rule. Faced significant challenges and opposition throughout the uprisings, with fluctuating levels of success that ultimately influenced the course of the unification.

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Auguste Chapdelaine

French missionary and saint
Born
February 6th, 1814 211 years ago
Died
1856 169 years ago — 42 years old

Born in 1814, Chapdelaine served as a missionary in Canada during the 19th century. Focused on evangelizing Indigenous populations, he spent several years in the mission field. He was captured by local tribes and became a martyr for his faith. Chapdelaine was later canonized as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church, recognized for his dedication and sacrifice in spreading Christianity.

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