What Happened This Year 1859

Born in 1859

William Alden Smith

American lawyer and politician, U.S. Senator
Born
May 12th, 1859 165 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1932 92 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a U.S. Senator from Michigan from 1923 to 1927. Played a significant role in various legislative efforts during tenure. Contributed to the establishment of veterans' services and was involved in issues related to immigration and labor. Prior to becoming a senator, held positions such as a state representative in Michigan and engaged in law practice. Worked to improve infrastructure and public services in the state.

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Pierre Curie

French physicist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
May 15th, 1859 165 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1906 119 years ago — 46 years old

A physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the study of radioactivity. Worked alongside Marie Curie in the early 20th century. Received the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903 for joint research on radiation phenomena. Made foundational contributions to piezoelectricity and magnetism, advancing understanding in these fields. His work laid the groundwork for future research in radioactivity and its applications.

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Horace Hutchinson

English golfer and writer
Born
May 16th, 1859 165 years ago
Died
1932 93 years ago — 73 years old

Played golf during the late 19th century and contributed to the sport through both play and writing. Authored several books on golf, including 'The Complete Golfer' published in 1890, which is regarded as one of the early comprehensive golf manuals. Participated in the first Open Championship in 1860, demonstrating skill and knowledge of the game. Served as a captain of the English team in the 1902 international match against the United States, highlighting a notable competitive presence.

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Tsubouchi Shōyō

Japanese author and playwright
Born
May 22nd, 1859 165 years ago
Died
1935 90 years ago — 76 years old

An influential author, playwright, and educator, contributed significantly to modern Japanese literature. Played a crucial role in the promotion of the naturalist movement in Japan. Established literary theories and practices that guided future generations of writers. Authored the famous play 'The Tale of Genji', which adapted classical themes for contemporary audiences. Worked as an educator, influencing academic thought and literary criticism.

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Arthur Conan Doyle

British writer and creator of Sherlock Holmes
Born
May 22nd, 1859 165 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1930 94 years ago — 71 years old

A British writer, contributed significantly to the genre of detective fiction. Developed the character Sherlock Holmes, who first appeared in 'A Study in Scarlet' in 1887. Authored four full-length novels and 56 short stories featuring Holmes and Dr. John Watson. Other literary works included historical novels and science fiction. Engaged in medical practice and served as a war correspondent during the Second Boer War.

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Emanuel Nobel

Swedish-Russian businessman and inventor
Born
June 10th, 1859 165 years ago
Died
1932 93 years ago — 73 years old

Born in Sweden, this businessman played a significant role in the development of the petroleum industry in Russia. Involved in various ventures, including mechanized drilling, he contributed to numerous technological advancements. Membership in the Nobel family provided connections and insight into progressive industries of the era. His work primarily focused on the exploration and extraction of natural resources, which fostered economic growth in the region. Inspired by family legacy, he sought to improve methods and efficiencies within the industry, aligning with broader industrial trends in the late 19th century.

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Henry Ossawa Tanner

Painter of 'The Banjo Lesson'
Born
June 21st, 1859 165 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1937 87 years ago — 77 years old

An American-French painter and illustrator, Tanner specialized in genre scenes and biblical subjects. Born in 1859, Tanner faced racial discrimination while pursuing artistic education in the United States. He studied at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts under Thomas Eakins. In 1891, Tanner became the first African American painter to achieve significant recognition in Europe. His work includes notable pieces such as 'The Banjo Lesson,' which exemplifies his focus on African American life. He later moved to France, where he continued to develop his style, drawing from experiences in both America and Europe. Tanner's contributions to the art world include a focus on spirituality and dignity in the depiction of Black subjects.

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DeLancey W. Gill

American painter and illustrator
Born
July 1st, 1859 165 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1940 84 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1859, this individual was an American painter noted for illustrations that focused on Western American themes. He participated in the first exhibition at the Panama Pacific International Exposition in 1915 and gained recognition for his contributions to American art. His style often reflected the landscapes and cultures of the American West, providing depictions that resonated with the public's fascination with frontier life.

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Rettamalai Srinivasan

Indian politician and social reformer
Born
July 7th, 1859 165 years ago
Died
1945 80 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1859, a significant figure in Indian politics and social reform. Focused on issues of caste and education, advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. Worked towards improving the status of the untouchables in society. Founded the Adi Dravida Mahajana Sangam to promote social equality and empowerment. Contributed to the establishment of educational institutions aimed at uplifting underprivileged groups. Played a crucial role in the social reform movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, emphasizing the importance of education and community organization.

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