What Happened This Year 1856

Born in 1856

Thomas E. Watson

American lawyer and politician
Born
September 5th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
1922 103 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1856, a prominent lawyer and politician practiced law in Georgia. Active in the Populist movement, collaborated with farmers and laborers to advocate for economic reforms. Published the Watson's Jeffersonian Magazine, which provided a platform for progressive ideas and political discourse. Served in the U.S. Congress as a representative for Georgia's 10th congressional district. Involved in various community projects and sought to improve rural living conditions. Worked on issues such as the establishment of rural free mail delivery and reforms in education.

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Johann Heinrich Beck

Composer and conductor of American music
Born
September 12th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
1924 101 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1856, significant contributions were made to American classical music as a composer and conductor. Involved with various orchestras and musical societies, emphasis was placed on both original compositions and the interpretation of classical works. Active during a period rich in musical development, collaborations with prominent musicians and participation in significant performances marked a notable career in shaping the American classical music landscape.

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Arthur Morgan

Australian politician, 16th Premier of Queensland
Born
September 19th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1916 108 years ago — 60 years old

Served as the 16th Premier of Queensland from 1925 to 1926. Affiliated with the Australian Labor Party, focused on economic issues and social reforms during the interwar period. Promoted policies supporting trade unionism and public works, impacting the state's infrastructure and labor relations. Prior to his premiership, held various positions within the government, including Minister for Public Works. Advocated for improved living conditions for Queensland residents through legislative measures.

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Kate Douglas Wiggin

Author of 'Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm'
Born
September 28th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1923 101 years ago — 66 years old

An American author and educator, contributed significantly to children's literature. Best recognized for 'Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm', published in 1903, which depicted the life and adventures of a spirited young girl. Wiggin also founded the first free kindergarten in San Francisco, emphasizing the importance of early childhood education. Her writing often reflected themes of childhood innocence and the joys of rural life.

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Dragutin Gorjanović-Kramberger

Geologist and paleontologist
Born
October 25th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
1936 89 years ago — 80 years old

Contributions to geology, paleontology, and archaeology were significant. Focused on the study of Paleolithic remains in the Krapina cave in Croatia. Conducted extensive fieldwork and published findings that greatly advanced knowledge of prehistoric humans in Europe. His research helped establish the existence of Neanderthals in the region and contributed to the understanding of human evolution. Involved in various scientific societies and played a crucial role in academic circles in Croatia.

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Charles Leroux

Balloonist and skydiver
Born
October 31st, 1856 168 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1889 135 years ago — 32 years old

An American balloonist and skydiver, engaged in aerial demonstrations and exhibitions. Participated in early advancements in ballooning and parachuting techniques during the late 19th century. Established a reputation for daring stunts and innovative aerial feats. Contributed to the popularization of skydiving as a recreational activity.

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Jim McCormick

Baseball player and manager in MLB
Born
November 3rd, 1856 168 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 62 years old

Born in Scotland and later moving to America, contributed to baseball as both a player and a manager. Played as a pitcher in Major League Baseball during the late 19th century. Managed several teams after retirement, influencing the development of the sport during its formative years.

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Louis Brandeis

American lawyer and Supreme Court Justice
Born
November 13th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1941 83 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1856, served as an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court from 1916 to 1939. Advocated for social justice, labor rights, and the regulation of monopolies. Contributed to significant legal cases, including the landmark decision in Muller v. Oregon, which upheld labor laws protecting women. Brandeis was also influential in the establishment of the Federal Trade Commission and helped in the creation of the National Industrial Recovery Act.

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Madeleine Lemoyne Ellicott

American activist and suffragist
Born
November 14th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 89 years old

Played a significant role in the women's suffrage movement. Actively participated in the National American Woman Suffrage Association. Engaged in advocacy for women's rights on both state and national levels. Helped organize rallies and events to promote women's voting rights.

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