What Happened This Year 1857
Born in 1857
Zelia Nuttall
An archeologist and historian who contributed to the study of Mesoamerican cultures, particularly ancient Mexico. Conducted significant excavations at sites such as Teotihuacan and explored the Aztec empire's material culture. Published works that brought greater understanding of pre-Columbian civilizations, focusing on the cultural exchanges between indigenous peoples and European colonizers. Advocated for the importance of fieldwork in archeology, establishing methodologies that influenced future generations of researchers.
Continue ReadingGeorg Michaelis
Served as the 6th Chancellor of Germany from July to November 1917 during World War I. Worked as a professor at several universities and contributed to various academic fields, including political science and history. Held significant roles in the German government during a tumultuous period, overseeing a cabinet that dealt with the challenges posed by the war. Focused on reforming aspects of governance and public policy while also engaging in various academic pursuits throughout his career.
Continue ReadingManuel Espinosa Batista
Contributed to the Colombian pharmacy profession and engaged in politics. Served as a prominent figure in the Colombian Senate. Advocated for public health measures and reforms within the pharmaceutical sector, influencing policies aimed at improving healthcare access. His work helped establish a foundation for modern pharmaceutical practices in Colombia.
Continue ReadingMichał Drzymała
Born in 1857, contributed significantly to the Polish independence movement during the partitions of Poland. Engaged in efforts to promote Polish identity and self-governance. Led protests against German authorities regarding property rights and cultural oppression. Played a pivotal role in organizing local support for Polish nationalism. Passed away in 1937, leaving a legacy of activism in the fight for Polish rights and dignity.
Continue ReadingMilton S. Hershey
Born in 1857, a significant figure in the confectionery industry, founded The Hershey Company in 1894. After an unsuccessful initial venture, established a successful caramel company in Pennsylvania. In 1900, shifted focus to chocolate production, leading to the creation of a milk chocolate bar in 1900. The development of Hershey, Pennsylvania as a model town for employees highlighted commitment to community. The Hershey Company became a major player in the American chocolate market, famously partnering with various organizations to enhance production and distribution.
Continue ReadingJulia Platt
An American embryologist and politician, Platt contributed significantly to the field of embryology during the early 20th century. This individual served as a professor at the University of California, where research focused on the developmental stages of marine life. Platt held various political positions, including a term on the Santa Monica city council. With an educational background that included studies at the University of California and Harvard, efforts centered around both scientific research and public service. The combination of experiences in biology and governance represented a unique intersection of science and politics for the time.
Continue ReadingWilliam Howard Taft
Served as the 27th President of the United States from 1909 to 1913. Prior to this role, held positions including Secretary of War and Governor-General of the Philippines. Oversaw significant domestic policies, including tariff reforms and the establishment of the Department of Labor. After presidency, became the 10th Chief Justice of the United States, the only person to hold both offices. Focused on the interpretation of antitrust laws during the time in the Supreme Court.
Continue ReadingKonstantin Tsiolkovsky
Tsiolkovsky contributed significantly to the early theoretical foundations of astronautics and rocket science. His works laid out the mathematics required for spaceflight and concepts for the use of rockets for human exploration of space. Tsiolkovsky formulated the rocket equation, which describes the motion of vehicles in space. He wrote extensively, with one of his most influential works being 'Exploration of Cosmic Space by Means of Reaction Devices'. His ideas encompassed not only the mechanics of flight but also the philosophical implications of space travel and the future of humanity.
Continue ReadingJohn Hessin Clarke
Served as a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit. Clarke was appointed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and served from 1937 to 1945. Clarke had a notable career in law, advocating for various legal reforms and civil rights issues. Prior to his judicial career, Clarke was a prominent attorney in Ohio and held several legal positions, including serving as an assistant prosecutor in Cuyahoga County. He also contributed to the legal community through his writings and participation in legal organizations.
Continue Reading