What Happened This Year 1857

People Who Died in 1857

Karol Kurpiński

Polish composer and conductor
Born
March 6th, 1785 240 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1857 167 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1785 in Poland, a composer and conductor contributed significantly to Polish music in the 19th century. Active in the operatic genre, works included notable operas that gained popularity in Warsaw. Served as a conductor for various theatrical productions and established a reputation for promoting Polish musical traditions. Involved in the education of young musicians, influencing the next generation of composers and performers through mentorship.

Continue Reading

George Washington Parke Custis

American author and playwright
Born
1781 244 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1857 167 years ago — 76 years old

An author and playwright with significant contributions to American literature during the 19th century. Played a major role in the promotion of the works of William Shakespeare in the United States. Established an estate in Arlington, Virginia known as Arlington House, which served as a memorial to George Washington. Actively engaged in building an appreciation of American history through storytelling and drama.

Continue Reading

Louis-Eugène Cavaignac

French general and 1848 head of state
Born
October 15th, 1802 222 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1857 167 years ago — 55 years old

Cavaignac served as a French general and politician during the 19th century. In 1848, he became the head of state of France following the February Revolution. His leadership was marked by his efforts to suppress the June Days uprising, a worker rebellion in Paris. Cavaignac implemented martial law and used military force to restore order, securing a brief period of stability in the government. Although he gained acclaim for his decisive action during this upheaval, he eventually lost the presidential election to Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte later that year, marking the decline of his political career.

Continue Reading

Joseph Freiherr von Eichendorff

German author and poet
Born
March 10th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1857 167 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent novelist and poet of the Romantic movement in Germany, notable for evocative lyrical poetry and narrative prose. Authored the novel 'Auferstehung', which explored themes of nature, love, and the search for identity. Contributed significantly to German literature through rich symbolism and a deep attachment to the German landscape.

Continue Reading

Francis Beaufort

Irish hydrographer and Royal Navy officer
Born
May 27th, 1774 250 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1857 167 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to maritime navigation and meteorology. Developed the Beaufort Scale, which classifies wind strength based on observed sea conditions. Served in the Royal Navy and undertook various surveys, enhancing understanding of oceanography. His work laid the foundation for modern meteorological practices and navigational standards.

Continue Reading

Henry Havelock

British general during Indian Rebellion
Born
April 5th, 1795 229 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1795, a British general served in the British East India Company’s army. Played a pivotal role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857, particularly during the relief of the besieged British garrison in Lucknow. Demonstrated strategic military skills and leadership during this critical conflict. Achieved the rank of major-general and recognized for administrative capabilities as well.

Continue Reading

Princess Mary

Duchess of Gloucester and Edinburgh
Born
April 25th, 1776 248 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1776, the Duchess of Gloucester and Edinburgh served as a prominent member of the British royal family. As the daughter of King George III and Queen Charlotte, she held significant royal status and was involved in various court activities. Throughout her life, she maintained a close relationship with her siblings and took part in charitable efforts, supporting various causes associated with the royal family. Her marriage to Prince William Henry, Duke of Gloucester, further solidified her position within the aristocracy. She resided at various royal estates, becoming a respected figure within her social circles.

Continue Reading

Abraham Jacob van der Aa

Dutch author and academic, wrote encyclopedias
Born
December 7th, 1792 232 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 65 years old

An author and academic who contributed significantly to the field of literature and reference works. Focused on Dutch history and culture, producing extensive writings that shed light on various subjects. Notable for writing multi-volume encyclopedias and historical texts which have served as resources for scholars and readers. The works addressed the importance of regional history and provided comprehensive overviews of notable figures and events within the Netherlands.

Continue Reading

Mangal Pandey

Indian soldier during the Revolt of 1857
Born
July 19th, 1827 197 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 30 years old

An Indian soldier in the British East India Company's army, played a pivotal role in the revolt against British rule in 1857. The incident at Barrackpore on March 29, 1857, where he rebelled against the use of animal fat in cartridges, is considered a significant catalyst for the uprising. After the revolt, he was arrested and executed, becoming a martyr and symbol of resistance in Indian history.

Continue Reading