What Happened This Year 1858

Born in 1858

Selma Lagerlöf

Swedish author, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
November 20th, 1858 166 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1940 85 years ago — 81 years old

An influential Swedish author, produced a variety of works that combined elements of fantasy and realism. First woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1909, awarded for 'The Saga of Gösta Berling.' Other notable works include 'The Wonderful Adventures of Nils.' Also engaged in promoting education and women's rights. Contributed to Swedish cultural heritage and literary tradition.

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Albert Ranft

Swedish actor and theater director
Born
November 23rd, 1858 166 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1938 86 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1858, this individual was an influential figure in Swedish theater as both an actor and director. The early career included performances at prominent theaters, showcasing talent in various productions. Established a reputation in the Swedish cultural scene, contributing significantly to the growth of theater. Later years involved directing works that shaped the theatrical landscape in Sweden, influencing future generations of actors and directors.

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Alfred Capus

French journalist and playwright
Born
November 25th, 1858 166 years ago
Died
1922 103 years ago — 64 years old

Contributed significantly to French literature as a journalist, author, and playwright. Published numerous articles and essays in popular newspapers and magazines. Wrote several plays, with notable works including "La Prise de Bergenda" and "Le Fabrique des Hommes." Also contributed to the genre of comedic theater. Engaged with contemporary societal issues through writings and dramatizations.

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Katharine Drexel

American nun and saint known for philanthropy
Born
November 26th, 1858 166 years ago
Died
1955 70 years ago — 97 years old

A prominent figure in American Catholicism, established the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, focusing on education for Native Americans and African Americans. Founded numerous schools and missions across the United States. Recognized for her efforts to promote education and religious instruction among marginalized communities, reinforcing the role of the Catholic Church in social justice. Canonized as a saint in 2000 by Pope John Paul II.

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Jagadish Chandra Bose

Indian physicist known for radio waves
Born
November 30th, 1858 166 years ago
Died
November 23rd, 1937 87 years ago — 78 years old

Contributions to the field of physics and biology were significant. Pioneered research in radio transmission and demonstrated wireless communication. Developed instruments to study plant responses to stimuli, establishing a foundation for biophysics. Also made contributions to archaeology with studies in ancient Indian structures and artifacts. Published several influential books on various scientific subjects, including 'Response of plants to stimuli' and 'The Nervous Mechanism of Plants'.

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Vladimir Nemirovich-Danchenko

Theatre director and playwright
Born
December 11th, 1858 166 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1943 81 years ago — 84 years old

A prominent Russian theatre director and playwright, contributed to the development of modern Russian theatre. Co-founded the Moscow Art Theatre in 1898 alongside Konstantin Stanislavski, which became a landmark institution in theatrical history. Directed numerous productions and emphasized the importance of realism in performance. Also, wrote several plays that gained attention in the early 20th century, blending naturalism and artistic expression.

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Eva Nansen

Norwegian mezzo-soprano and skiing pioneer
Born
December 17th, 1858 166 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1907 117 years ago — 48 years old

Active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a prominent mezzo-soprano singer achieved recognition in the world of opera and concert performances. Her contributions to the art of singing were complemented by notable performances in various opera houses across Europe. Additionally, the individual made significant strides in promoting women's skiing, advocating for women's participation in the sport at a time when it was largely male-dominated. Through participation in ski events and visibility in the skiing community, the individual helped facilitate the acceptance of women in competitive skiing.

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Giacomo Puccini

Italian composer of operas
Born
December 22nd, 1858 166 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1924 100 years ago — 65 years old

An Italian composer of operas, recognized for contributions to the genre during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Composed several prominent works, with notable operas including 'La Bohème', 'Tosca', and 'Madama Butterfly'. His compositions are characterized by their melodic richness and dramatic intensity, earning significant acclaim and enduring popularity in the operatic repertoire.

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Juan Luis Sanfuentes

Chilean lawyer and 17th President of Chile
Born
December 27th, 1858 166 years ago
Died
1930 95 years ago — 72 years old

Served as the 17th President of Chile from 1920 to 1925. Before presidency, held various political posts and was instrumental in legislative processes. Focused on social reforms and infrastructure development during presidency. Played a significant role in Chilean politics during the early 20th century.

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