What Happened This Year 1858

Historical Events from This Year 1858 (View all 24)

Military & Warfare

British Victory Over Rajab Ali Khan of Chittagong

January 9th, 1858 167 years ago

The British forces achieved a decisive victory against Rajab Ali Khan in Chittagong, marking a critical turning point in their efforts to consolidate control over Bengal. Rajab Ali Khan, a prominent local leader, had resisted British rule and rallied significant local support. The confrontation culminated in a battle that showcased British military prowess and brought an end to local resistance in the region, reaffirming British dominance in East Bengal.

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Politics & Government

Napoleon III Survives Assassination Attempt

January 14th, 1858 167 years ago

Felice Orsini attempted to assassinate Napoleon III in Paris using a bomb. Orsini and two accomplices targeted the Emperor's carriage during a public event. The attack took place as Napoleon was traveling along the Boulevard de l’Opéra. Although the attempt caused injuries and chaos, Napoleon escaped unharmed, which led to a heightened sense of security and scrutiny in France.

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Cultural Traditions

The Wedding March Debuts at Royal Wedding

January 25th, 1858 167 years ago

The Wedding March by Felix Mendelssohn was played at the wedding of Princess Victoria, the daughter of Queen Victoria, to Friedrich of Prussia. This significant moment occurred in St. James's Palace, London, and the piece quickly became a beloved wedding processional, influencing future royal and public ceremonies alike. The choice of music reflected both the personal connection of the royal family to Mendelssohn's work and the growing trend toward romanticism in wedding traditions.

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Arts & Culture

The Hallé Orchestra's First Concert in Manchester

January 30th, 1858 167 years ago

The Hallé Orchestra gave its first performance in Manchester, showcasing the talent of its musicians under the direction of conductor Sir Charles Hallé. Established as a full-time professional ensemble, the concert was held at the Free Trade Hall and marked a significant moment in the city's musical history. The Hallé's goal was to provide regular orchestral performances and contribute to the cultural life of Manchester and beyond.

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Religion & Philosophy

Bernadette Soubirous's Vision of Mary in Lourdes

February 11th, 1858 167 years ago

Bernadette Soubirous, a young peasant girl, experienced her first vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary in a grotto at Lourdes, France. This significant event occurred in a remote area, and Bernadette was initially uncertain of its meaning. Her visions continued for several months, attracting attention from local authorities and the public, culminating in a deep sense of faith and devotion among the believer's community.

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Transportation & Infrastructure

Recasting the Big Ben Bell at Whitechapel

April 10th, 1858 166 years ago

Following the cracking of the original Big Ben, a new bell weighing 13.76 tonnes was recast by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry. This bell was designed to replace the original, which had failed during testing. The project was commissioned for the Palace of Westminster as a means to continue the legacy of timekeeping synonymous with the iconic clock tower. The recasting was crucial for ensuring the functioning of the chimes that would accompany London's renowned Big Ben.

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Born in 1858 (View all 124)

Heinrich Rauchinger

Painter known for Kraków artworks
Born
January 1st, 1858 167 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1942 82 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Kraków in 1858, this painter became associated with the art scene in Poland. The work focused primarily on landscapes and genre scenes, exhibiting a strong influence of the 19th-century realism movement. Significant contributions were made to various exhibitions, showcasing a commitment to the Polish cultural landscape. The artistic development during this period reflected the social and political changes occurring in the region. The painter's oeuvre remains an important reference for understanding the context of Polish art in the late 19th century.

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Carter Glass

American politician and treasury secretary
Born
January 4th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1946 78 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the 47th Secretary of the Treasury from 1918 to 1920. Played a key role in the establishment of the Federal Reserve System and contributed to the development of banking legislation during his tenure. Had a significant impact on fiscal policy and economic reform in the early 20th century. Worked as a publisher and editor before entering politics, influencing public discourse through journalism.

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Eliezer Ben-Yehuda

Lexicographer and influencer of Hebrew
Born
January 7th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1922 103 years ago — 64 years old

Born in Belarus, a significant figure in the revival of the Hebrew language. Engaged in the lexicographic work extensively, compiling and creating the first modern Hebrew dictionary. Established the first modern Hebrew-language newspaper, 'Hashahar'. Moved to Palestine in 1881 and became a pivotal force in promoting Hebrew as a spoken language. Advocated for Hebrew education and the establishment of Hebrew as the medium of instruction in schools.

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Heinrich Zille

German illustrator and photographer
Born
January 10th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1929 96 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1858, an illustrator and photographer gained recognition for capturing the everyday life of Berlin's working class during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This artist's works often featured humorous and satirical depictions of urban life, reflecting the social conditions of the time. Zille's drawings and photographs combined technical skill with a keen observation of human behavior, earning a following among both the public and critics alike. In the early 1900s, exhibitions showcased his work, and he became a key figure in Berlin's art scene.

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Harry Gordon Selfridge

Businessman and founder of Selfridges
Born
January 11th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1947 77 years ago — 89 years old

An American-English businessman played a pivotal role in revolutionizing retail with the establishment of Selfridges in London. Founded in 1909, this department store introduced innovative marketing strategies, including an emphasis on customer experience and influential advertising techniques. The store became synonymous with luxury and sophistication, contributing to modern shopping culture. His concepts changed how retailers interacted with consumers, creating an enduring legacy in the retail industry. Selfridge's vision led to the expansion of the Selfridges brand and set new standards in product presentation and retail space design.

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Oskar Minkowski

Biologist and Academic in Diabetes Research
Born
January 13th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
1931 94 years ago — 73 years old

Contributions to the understanding of diabetes emerged through research focused on the pancreas. Conducted experiments that led to the discovery of the role of the pancreas in the regulation of blood sugar levels. Collaborated with prominent scientists of the time and published findings that advanced the field of endocrinology. Also held academic positions where teaching and mentoring of students in biological sciences were priorities.

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People Who Died in 1858 (View all 30)

Joseph Radetzky von Radetz

Austrian field marshal and military leader
Born
1766 259 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1858 167 years ago — 92 years old

A distinguished field marshal in the Austro-Hungarian Army, led successful campaigns in the Italian territories during the 19th century. Played a crucial role in the First Italian War of Independence, successfully defeating the Sardinian forces at the Battle of Custoza in 1848. Later, secured victory again in 1849 at the Battle of Novara, which reestablished Austrian control in Italy. Instrumental in the establishment of military reforms that modernized the Austro-Hungarian military structure. Received accolades for military leadership and strategy, and his legacy continued to influence military tactics in the region. Retired in the early 1850s and died in 1858.

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Mustafa Reşid Pasha

Ottoman Grand Vizier and statesman
Born
March 13th, 1800 225 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1858 167 years ago — 57 years old

Served as the Grand Vizier of the Ottoman Empire during the Tanzimat period. Contributed to significant reforms aimed at modernizing the empire and improving its administrative structure. Advocated for constitutional government and the establishment of secular laws. Played a vital role in the implementation of legal and educational reforms. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to modernize the empire's foreign relations.

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Anson Jones

American politician and Texas President
Born
January 20th, 1799 226 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1858 167 years ago — 58 years old

A physician and politician, served as the fourth President of the Republic of Texas from 1844 to 1846. During the presidency, played a key role in the annexation of Texas to the United States. Advocated for the establishment of Texas as a separate nation and pursued policies aimed at fostering economic development and stability. After the annexation, held various political positions including Secretary of State for Texas.

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Coenraad Jacob Temminck

Dutch zoologist and ornithologist
Born
March 31st, 1778 246 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1858 167 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of zoology and ornithology. Established a systematic approach to the classification of birds and authored influential works. Played a key role in the development of natural history in the Netherlands during the 19th century. Served as the first director of the Natural History Museum in Leiden, which became a center for scientific research.

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Matthew C. Perry

American naval commander and diplomat
Born
April 10th, 1794 230 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1858 167 years ago — 63 years old

A naval commander and diplomat from the United States, conducted the first significant expedition to Japan in the mid-19th century. The mission aimed to establish diplomatic relations and trade with Japan, which had been isolated for over 200 years. Commanded a fleet of warships, known as the 'Black Ships', and successfully negotiated the Treaty of Kanagawa in 1854, which opened Japan to American trade. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of Japan's modernization and interaction with the Western world.

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Anton Diabelli

Austrian composer and music publisher
Born
September 5th, 1781 243 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1858 166 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent figure in early 19th-century music, this individual made significant contributions as a composer and publisher. His most notable work, a waltz titled "Andante favori," served as the foundation for Beethoven's famous "Diabelli Variations." As a publisher, he played a vital role in the dissemination of classical music, supporting many composers of the era. His publishing business became a key player in the music industry, fostering the careers of various musicians. His efforts helped in popularizing the works of several contemporaries, solidifying his place in music history.

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