What Happened This Year 1860

Born in 1860

Ada Rehan

Irish-American actress and stage star
Born
1860 166 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1916 110 years ago — 56 years old

Celebrated for contributions to American theatre, a prominent figure in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Rehan became well-recognized for performances with the famous actor-manager John Drew's company. Gained significant acclaim for the role of 'Peggy' in 'The Taming of the Shrew' and in productions such as 'The Merchant of Venice' and 'The Comedy of Errors'. Her performances were characterized by strong presence and emotional depth, contributing to the popularity of the works presented on stage during that era. Continued to perform until shortly before her death in 1916, leaving behind a legacy in American theatrical history.

Continue Reading

Juliette Gordon Low

Founder of the Girl Scouts of the USA
Born
1860 166 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1927 99 years ago — 67 years old

Active in the early 20th century, this individual established the Girl Scouts of the USA in 1912, promoting leadership and outdoor skills among girls. Strongly influenced by the Scouting movement in Europe, the organization quickly gained traction, emphasizing community service and personal development. The founder devoted much of her life to the organization, serving as the first president and serving in various roles until her passing in 1927.

Continue Reading

Florence Farr

British actress and theater director
Born
1860 166 years ago
Died
April 29th, 1917 108 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent figure in British theater, contributed significantly to the development of theatrical arts in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Directed and performed in various productions, becoming associated with the London stage. Worked with various literary figures and was involved with the design and execution of innovative theatrical performances. Helped introduce and popularize modernist theater techniques during a transformative period in the arts.

Continue Reading

Karl Denke

German serial killer and cannibal
Born
1860 166 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1924 101 years ago — 64 years old

A German individual committed multiple murders in the early 20th century. Active in the 1920s, the crimes included the killing of numerous victims, many of whom were travelers or locals in the area. Denke's actions also involved acts of cannibalism, which drew significant attention from law enforcement and the public. Arrested in 1924, he was charged with several counts of murder. The case was sensational, highlighting issues related to mental health and criminal behavior at the time. Denke died by suicide in custody shortly after his arrest.

Continue Reading

Karl Mantzius

Danish actor and theater director
Born
1860 166 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1921 104 years ago — 61 years old

Involved in the Danish theater scene, a significant contributor to stage productions and direction. Held a prominent position in various theaters, including the Royal Danish Theatre. Directed and performed in numerous plays, showcasing talent in both acting and directing. His career spanned several decades until death in 1921.

Continue Reading

Karel Matěj Čapek-Chod

Czech journalist and author
Born
1860 166 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1927 98 years ago — 67 years old

A significant figure in Czech literature, contributed to journalism and fiction during the early 20th century. Worked as a journalist for numerous Czech publications, focusing on social and political issues. His literary works often reflected the complexities of Czech society at the time. Also produced various critical essays that explored contemporary topics and advocated for reforms in Czech culture and society. His commitment to literature and journalism left a lasting legacy in the Czech literary canon.

Continue Reading

Sam Thompson

Baseball player, MLB Hall of Famer
Born
1860 166 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1922 103 years ago — 62 years old

An accomplished baseball player, played primarily as an outfielder in Major League Baseball from 1885 to 1898. Played for teams including the Detroit Wolverines, Philadelphia Phillies, and the Boston Beaneaters. Achieved notable success in his career, culminating in induction into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1946, recognizing exceptional contributions to the sport. Also excelled at batting, with a career batting average above .300.

Continue Reading

Austin Lane Crothers

Educator and 46th Governor of Maryland
Born
1860 166 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1912 113 years ago — 52 years old

Served as the 46th Governor of Maryland from 1908 to 1912. Prior to the governorship, held positions in education, emphasizing the improvement of Maryland's public school system. Advocated for educational reforms and enhanced vocational training. His tenure focused on economic development and infrastructure improvements within the state.

Continue Reading

Otto Jespersen

Danish linguist and language reformer
Born
1860 166 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1943 82 years ago — 83 years old

Contributions included extensive work in the field of linguistics, focusing on the development of the English language and the theory of language change. Engaged in significant analysis of irregular verbs and the process of grammar. Published numerous influential texts, including 'Growth and Structure of the English Language' and 'Language: Its Nature, Development, and Origin'. Participated actively in the language reform movement for Danish.

Continue Reading