What Happened This Year 1860
Born in 1860
Marianne von Werefkin
A prominent painter associated with the early 20th-century art scene, contributed significantly to expressionism. Studied under major influences and became an integral part of the Munich avant-garde community. Co-founded the artist group "Der Blaue Reiter" with fellow artists. Explored themes of spirituality and emotion in artwork, often using vibrant colors and bold forms. Exhibited works across Europe and was recognized for her unique style and dedication to the craft until death.
Continue ReadingJames Allan
Played rugby for New Zealand in the late 19th century. Represented New Zealand in the first-ever international rugby match against New South Wales in 1882. Contributed to the early development of rugby as a competitive sport in New Zealand. Was part of a pioneering team that laid the groundwork for future generations of players.
Continue ReadingJohn J. Pershing
A prominent United States Army general, played a crucial role during World War I as the commander of the American Expeditionary Forces. Graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1886, served in various capacities including the Philippine-American War and the Punitive Expedition into Mexico against Pancho Villa. Pershing's leadership and strategic planning were instrumental in the successful offensives at the Meuse-Argonne and Saint-Mihiel. Following the war, he held the position of Chief of Staff of the United States Army and was influential in shaping the military policies of the interwar period. Awarded the Distinguished Service Medal and the French Croix de Guerre, received the title of General of the Armies in 1919, an honor denoting his standing as one of the highest-ranking generals in U.S. history.
Continue ReadingHamlin Garland
Garland achieved recognition as a significant voice of the American Midwest through his literary works. He wrote extensively, producing novels, short stories, and essays that often depicted rural life and the struggles of ordinary people. His most notable work, 'Main-Travelled Roads,' released in 1891, illustrated the lives of farmers and rural communities. In addition to fiction, Garland contributed to literary criticism and briefly served as a historian for the state of Wisconsin. His writings often reflected realist themes, emphasizing the harsh realities faced by settlers in the Midwest.
Continue ReadingAlberto Franchetti
Born in Italy in 1860, a composer and educator contributed significantly to the world of music. Focused primarily on opera, composed notable works including 'Cristina, regina di Svezia' and 'Sibilla'. Worked extensively as an educator, shaping the next generation of musicians. His emphasis on combining traditional and innovative musical elements left a lasting impact on contemporary operatic styles. Later moved to the United States where he continued to be involved in music education and composition until his death in 1942.
Continue ReadingPaul Ulrich Villard
Contributed to the discovery of gamma rays and conducted extensive research on radioactivity. Villard identified gamma radiation as a distinct type of radiation emitted by radium, improving the understanding of nuclear chemistry. His research laid the groundwork for future studies in the field of radiation and its applications in medicine and industry. In addition to his work in radioactivity, Villard made significant contributions to studies in gaseous phenomena and hypotheses regarding atomic structure, impacting the development of modern physics.
Continue ReadingLeonidas Paraskevopoulos
Served as a general in the Greek army and held significant political positions. Participated in various military campaigns, contributing to Greece's military strategies during his tenure. Became Minister for Military Affairs and contributed to the development of military policies and reforms. Actively involved in Greek politics during the early 20th century, participating in multiple government formations and discussions. His work had a lasting influence on military organization in Greece.
Continue ReadingJohn D. Batten
A British painter, printmaker, and illustrator focused on children's literature and mythological themes. Achieved notable work with illustrated editions of classic texts including 'The Water Baby' and 'The Arabian Nights'. His artistic style combined Victorian sensibility with a unique approach to color and composition, influencing the field of book illustration during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Continue ReadingHenry Campbell Black
A legal lexicographer, focused on creating a comprehensive legal dictionary to aid legal professionals in their work. Founded Black's Law Dictionary, first published in 1891, which has become the definitive legal reference in the United States. Contributed to the standardization of legal terminology within the field and served as an important resource for lawyers, judges, and students of law.
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