What Happened This Year 1859

Born in 1859

Sholem Aleichem

Ukrainian-American author and playwright
Born
March 2nd, 1859 166 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1916 109 years ago — 57 years old

Born in what is now Ukraine, a prominent author and playwright wrote in Yiddish. His works often depicted the lives of Jewish families in Eastern Europe, intertwining humor and social commentary. The character Tevye the Dairyman, featured in stories such as 'Tevye and His Daughters', gained widespread acclaim and inspired the musical 'Fiddler on the Roof'. In the early 20th century, the contributions to Yiddish literature and theater became significant, earning recognition and establishing a legacy that continues to influence Jewish culture.

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Kenneth Grahame

British author of The Wind in the Willows
Born
March 8th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1932 92 years ago — 73 years old

A British author, recognized for creating enchanting children's literature. Many readers appreciate the charm and whimsy of the story about anthropomorphic animals living in River Bank. Released in 1908, the tale features characters such as Mole, Ratty, and Toad and highlights themes of friendship and adventure. Grahame’s early career included work as a banker, but he found his true calling in writing, which began as a means to entertain his son. He published additional works, including 'The Reluctant Dragon' and 'Dream Days', which also captured the imagination of children and adults alike. His storytelling style combined vivid imagery with gentle humor, leaving a lasting legacy in children's literature.

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Ernesto Cesàro

Italian mathematician and researcher
Born
March 12th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
1906 119 years ago — 47 years old

Born in 1859, this mathematician contributed significantly to the fields of calculus and analysis. His research focused on definite and indefinite integrals as well as non-standard analysis. He received recognition for work on Cesàro summation methods, which address convergence issues in series. Additionally, he served as a professor at the University of Naples, where he guided numerous students in mathematical theory and its applications.

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Alexander Stepanovich Popov

Russian physicist and inventor of radio
Born
March 16th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1906 119 years ago — 46 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of electromagnetic technology. Conducted experiments that led to the invention of the radio. Demonstrated transmission of radio waves in 1895, showcasing wireless communication. Established principles of radio wave transmission that laid groundwork for future communication technologies.

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Daria Pratt

American golfer with championship titles
Born
March 21st, 1859 166 years ago
Died
June 26th, 1938 86 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1859, a prominent American golfer played in the late 19th century. Competed at notable tournaments and was recognized as an early figure in women's golf. Achieved success in various championships, contributing to the growth of the sport for women.

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Hendrik Wortman

Civil engineer and urban planner
Born
March 25th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 80 years old

A Dutch civil engineer and urban planner contributed significantly to infrastructure development. Engaged in various projects, Wortman worked on improving urban design and public transportation systems in cities. His expertise in civil engineering led to advancements in road construction and city planning that facilitated growth and modernization in urban areas during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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A. E. Housman

English poet and classical scholar
Born
March 26th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1936 89 years ago — 77 years old

Achieved recognition as a poet and scholar of Latin literature. Published 'A Shropshire Lad' in 1896, which gained significant popularity and contributed to his reputation as a skilled lyricist. Held a professor position of Latin at University College London and later at Cambridge University, influencing classical studies and literary scholarship.

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Adolf Hurwitz

Mathematician known for functional analysis
Born
March 26th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
1919 106 years ago — 60 years old

Contributions included significant work in the field of mathematics, focusing on functional analysis and number theory. Served as a professor at the University of Königsberg, later at the University of Zurich. Published several important papers and texts in mathematics, enriching the discipline.

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George Giffen

Australian cricketer and footballer
Born
March 27th, 1859 166 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1927 97 years ago — 68 years old

Played as a prominent all-rounder in cricket and represented South Australia. Giffen was a key figure in the inaugural Test matches for Australia, making significant contributions both with bat and ball. In addition to cricket, also played Australian rules football. Featured in the first match of the Test series against England in 1882.

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