What Happened This Year 1859

Born in 1859

Alexandru Averescu

Romanian military leader, Prime Minister
Born
1859 166 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1938 86 years ago — 79 years old

A military leader and politician served as the 24th Prime Minister of Romania. Held significant roles during World War I, contributing to military strategies that shaped the outcome for Romania. Appointed as Prime Minister, focused on national unity and post-war reconstruction. Led the National Peasant Party and established a government that addressed key social issues. Promoted infrastructure development and economic reforms to stabilize Romania's economy after the war. Played a vital role in Romanian politics until death in 1938.

Continue Reading

Tony Mullane

Baseball pitcher with multiple teams
Born
1859 166 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1944 81 years ago — 85 years old

An Irish-American baseball player active in the late 19th century. Played primarily as a pitcher and debuted in Major League Baseball in 1881. Represented several teams during a career spanning over a decade, including the Detroit Wolverines, St. Louis Browns, and Cincinnati Reds. Notably achieved a unique accomplishment of being a left-handed pitcher who threw with both hands. Recorded over 200 wins during his career and was recognized for his durability and skill on the mound. Concluded professional playing career in 1894.

Continue Reading

George Lansbury

British politician and Labour leader
Born
1859 166 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1940 84 years ago — 81 years old

An English journalist and politician, played a significant role in the Labour Party during the early 20th century. Served as the leader of the Labour Party from 1932 to 1935 and was an advocate for various social causes including women's rights and housing reform. Elected as a Member of Parliament for the first time in 1910 and represented several constituencies over the years. Established a strong connection with the working class and emphasized social justice throughout his political career. Pushed for policies that aimed to improve the living conditions of the poor and was influential in the development of the party's platform.

Continue Reading

Elias Disney

Farmer and businessman in animation
Born
1859 166 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1941 83 years ago — 82 years old

A Canadian-American farmer and businessman, contributed to the early foundations of the animation industry. Established a small supermarket in California, which helped support family's living. Worked with son to support his creative endeavors, which later led to the formation of a significant entertainment enterprise. Actively participated in farming and various small business ventures, fostering an entrepreneurial spirit that influenced future generations.

Continue Reading

Havelock Ellis

Psychologist and author of Studies in the Psychology of Sex
Born
1859 166 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1939 85 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent English psychologist and physician, Ellis contributed significantly to the fields of psychology and sexology. He authored the multi-volume work 'Studies in the Psychology of Sex', which examined human sexuality from a psychological perspective. This work was groundbreaking for its time and helped to shift societal attitudes toward sexuality. Ellis also engaged in discussions around issues such as gender and sexual identity, promoting a more open discourse on these topics. His influence extended to various disciplines, including sociology and education.

Continue Reading

Verner von Heidenstam

Swedish author and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
1859 166 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1940 84 years ago — 81 years old

An author and poet from Sweden, contributed significantly to Swedish literature. Worked in various literary forms including poetry and prose. Received the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1916 for contributions to the field. His works often reflected themes of nature, Swedish culture, and national identity. Achieved notable acclaim for the novel 'Karolinerna', which depicted life during the Great Northern War. Also produced a significant body of poetry that explored personal and national themes.

Continue Reading

Ernest Hogan

Actor and composer of blackface minstrel shows
Born
1859 166 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1909 115 years ago — 50 years old

An American actor and composer, contributed significantly to the development of blackface minstrel shows in the late 19th century. Hogan gained recognition for introducing new musical elements and comedic styles into the genre. He performed in various theatrical productions, becoming one of the first African American performers to achieve fame in this arena. Hogan was also active in promoting African American culture through music and theater during a time of intense racial prejudice. His works often included original songs that became popular among broader audiences.

Continue Reading

Louise DeKoven Bowen

American philanthropist and activist
Born
1859 166 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1953 71 years ago — 94 years old

Contributed significantly to social welfare and education initiatives in Chicago. Instrumental in founding the Chicago School of Social Work. Advocated for women and children's rights, playing a key role in various philanthropic organizations. Involved in efforts to improve public health and housing conditions. Supported the suffrage movement and worked with numerous charitable institutions throughout her life.

Continue Reading

Lloyd Wheaton Bowers

United States Solicitor General
Born
1859 166 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1910 114 years ago — 51 years old

Served as the Solicitor General of the United States from 1893 to 1895. Played a significant role in representing the federal government in legal matters before the Supreme Court. Active in public service and law, contributing to key legal decisions during tenure. Engaged with various legal and political organizations.

Continue Reading