What Happened This Year 1857

People Who Died in 1857

Carlo Pisacane

Italian soldier and philosopher.
Born
1818 207 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1857 167 years ago — 39 years old

Served as an Italian soldier and contributed to revolutionary thought during the 19th century. Engaged in military actions geared toward the unification of Italy. In 1857, led an expedition known as the Pisacane Expedition, aiming to inspire uprisings in Southern Italy against Bourbon rule. The campaign ended in failure but was significant in the discourse on Italian nationalism. Wrote extensively on revolutionary and political themes, influencing future generations of political thinkers.

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William L. Marcy

American politician and Secretary of State
Born
December 12th, 1786 238 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1857 167 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a prominent lawyer and politician in the United States during the 19th century. Held the position of the 21st Secretary of State under President James Buchanan. Enjoyed a successful career in public service, also serving as a governor and holding other significant political roles. Contributed to various legislative efforts that shaped the era.

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Carl Czerny

Austrian pianist and composer of exercises
Born
February 21st, 1791 234 years ago
Died
July 15th, 1857 167 years ago — 66 years old

Born in Vienna, a significant pianist and composer, contributed extensively to piano technique. Composed numerous etudes, including the 'School of Velocity' and 'The Art of Finger Dexterity.' Worked as a teacher and mentor to future composers, influencing the development of piano pedagogy. Established a reputation for detailed technical studies that are still utilized in piano education today. Active during the early 19th century, Czerny's works remain essential in the training of pianists.

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Stefano Franscini

Swiss statistician and politician
Born
October 23rd, 1796 228 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1857 167 years ago — 60 years old

Contributed to the development of statistics in Switzerland and served in various political roles. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Federal Polytechnic School in Zurich, now known as ETH Zurich. Participated actively in Swiss politics in the early 19th century, focusing on educational reforms. Helped shape the educational landscape in Switzerland during this period.

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Thomas Dick

Scottish minister and educational writer
Born
November 24th, 1774 250 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1857 167 years ago — 82 years old

A Scottish minister and educator contributed significantly to literature and education during the 19th century. Engaged in writing extensively on astronomy and its relation to religion, produced influential works that popularized scientific ideas among the general public. Emphasized the importance of moral education and the fusion of scientific inquiry with religious belief. Authored many books aimed at improving educational methods and promoting learning across various disciplines. Played a pivotal role in establishing libraries and educational societies to encourage access to knowledge.

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Eugène Sue

French author and politician
Born
1804 221 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1857 167 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent figure of the 19th century, this individual gained recognition as a novelist and a political activist. The most significant literary contributions include the serialized novel 'The Mysteries of Paris', which unveiled the social injustices of the time through compelling storytelling. In addition to writing, involvement in politics led to a focus on social issues and reform. The author's works often addressed themes of class struggle and morality, influencing the literary landscape in France. Engagement in political movements showcased a commitment to social change, often intertwining literary works with contemporary social issues.

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Rufus Wilmot Griswold

American editor and anthologist
Born
February 13th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1857 167 years ago — 42 years old

An influential 19th-century editor and literary critic, played a key role in shaping American literature. Contributed significantly to the anthology genre, compiling essential works of poetry and prose. Edited 'The Poets and Poetry of America', which introduced many readers to prominent authors. Published numerous essays and critiques that influenced contemporary writers. Engaged in literary discourse, promoting the aesthetic movement.

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John McLoughlin

Canadian-American businessman, fur trader
Born
1784 241 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1857 167 years ago — 73 years old

Involved in the fur trade during the early 19th century. Served as the Chief Factor of the Columbia Department of the Hudson's Bay Company. Played a significant role in the development of the Pacific Northwest region. Established Fort Vancouver as a key trading post. Engaged in negotiations with settlers and Indigenous peoples.

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Auguste Comte

French philosopher of positivism
Born
January 19th, 1798 227 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1857 167 years ago — 59 years old

A key figure in the development of sociology and positivism, contributions included the establishment of social sciences. Introduced the concept of a 'law of three stages' to explain societal development: theological, metaphysical, and positive. Founded the discipline of sociology, emphasizing empirical observation and the importance of social facts. Influenced various fields including philosophy, sociology, and economics, laying the groundwork for future sociologists. His thoughts on positivism shaped debates around science and society, promoting the idea that knowledge should be derived from scientific results.

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