What Happened This Year 1859

People Who Died in 1859

Bettina von Arnim

German author and composer
Born
April 4th, 1785 240 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1859 166 years ago — 73 years old

An author, illustrator, and composer active in the 19th century. Authored the notable work ‘Goethe's Correspondence with a Child’, which highlights correspondence with Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. Contributed to the field of music through compositions and published works that showcased her talent as both a writer and a musician. Worked closely with prominent literary figures of the time and advocated for various intellectual causes, particularly in the realm of women's rights.

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F. J. Robinson

English politician, Prime Minister
Born
November 1st, 1782 242 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1859 166 years ago — 76 years old

Served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom in 1827, holding office for a brief period. Prior to this role, held various political positions including President of the Board of Trade and Chancellor of the Exchequer. Contributed to the formation of the Whig party and engaged in significant legislative efforts during a transformative period in British politics. Resigned from the premiership after only four months due to political challenges and factional disputes within Parliament.

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Eliza Acton

Food writer and poet known for cooking.
Born
April 17th, 1799 226 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1859 166 years ago — 59 years old

A significant figure in English culinary literature, contributed as a food writer and poet. Authored the cookbook 'Modern Cookery for Private Families' which was one of the first to include precise measurements and timings for recipes, setting a new standard in cookbooks. The work garnered attention for its innovative approach and comprehensive nature, influencing future generations of writers and home cooks. Acton also wrote poetry, with her verses reflecting her experiences and insights.

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Zygmunt Krasiński

Polish poet and playwright, 'Nieboska Komedia'
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1859 166 years ago — 47 years old

A prominent figure in Polish literature during the Romantic period, this individual contributed significantly through poetry and drama. As a member of the Polish aristocracy, this person expressed national themes and explored existential questions in works. 'Nieboska Komedia', a notable play, highlighted the struggle between good and evil while examining human destiny. Additionally, the individual wrote various poems that further advanced Polish literary expression. The influence of this literary figure extended beyond poetry, impacting the development of theatre in Poland.

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Alexis de Tocqueville

French historian and political thinker
Born
July 29th, 1805 219 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1859 166 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1805, contributed to political philosophy and history. Authored 'Democracy in America,' analyzing American society and its political system. His work highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of democracy and engaged with the concepts of liberty and equality. Conducted extensive research during a visit to the United States, focusing on the evolution of American democratic institutions. Addressed the implications of social conditions on political stability.

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Tatya Tope

Indian general during the Rebellion
Born
1814 211 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1859 166 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent general during the Indian Rebellion of 1857, played a significant role in the struggle against British colonial rule. Commanded forces for the rebellion and demonstrated military leadership through various key battles. Collaborated with other leaders of the revolt, organizing troops and strategizing confrontations against British forces. After initial successes, faced challenges but remained active in the resistance until capture and execution in 1859.

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Joseph Diaz Gergonne

French mathematician and philosopher
Born
June 19th, 1771 253 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1859 165 years ago — 87 years old

Gergonne contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and philosophy. His work focused on projective geometry and combinatorial analysis. He established mathematical terminology and notation that are still used today. Gergonne also engaged in the promotion and teaching of mathematics in various educational institutions.

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Peter Gustav Lejeune Dirichlet

German mathematician and academic
Born
February 13th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1859 165 years ago — 54 years old

Contributed significantly to number theory, analysis, and mathematical physics. Introduced Dirichlet's theorem on arithmetic progressions, which established conditions for prime numbers in specific sequences. Developed the concept of a Dirichlet series and made advances in the study of functions, particularly Dirichlet conditions. Served as a professor at the University of Göttingen for many years, influencing future generations of mathematicians.

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Alexander von Humboldt

German geographer and explorer
Born
September 14th, 1769 255 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1859 165 years ago — 89 years old

Contributions to geography, natural sciences, and exploration were significant. Conducted extensive explorations in Latin America, documenting cultures, landscapes, and ecosystems. Published works like 'Cosmos', which synthesized knowledge from various disciplines. Established the concept of vegetation zones based on altitude and climate. Influenced environmental and social sciences.

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