What Happened This Year 1860

Born in 1860

Martin Kukučín

Slovak author and playwright
Born
May 17th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
1928 97 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1860, this individual became a significant figure in Slovak literature, particularly recognized for contributions to prose and drama. The author studied medicine before fully immersing in writing. Influenced by both Slovak folklore and contemporary European literary movements, his works often depicted rural life and challenges faced by common people. This literary figure spent a portion of life in the United States, where he encountered various experiences that shaped his writing. The author's most acclaimed works include novels that portray the Slovak landscape and cultural heritage. His legacy in Slovak literature remains prominent.

Continue Reading

Eduard Buchner

German chemist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
May 20th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1917 107 years ago — 57 years old

A chemist and zymologist, significant contributions included research in fermentation, particularly focusing on the role of enzymes. Buchner's work established the foundation for the field of biochemistry. In 1907, he received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for discovering that fermentation can occur without living yeast cells, a groundbreaking finding in the study of biochemical processes. Buchner's research also included studies on the properties of enzymes and their role in fermentation.

Continue Reading

Willem Einthoven

Physician and Nobel Prize Laureate
Born
May 21st, 1860 164 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1927 97 years ago — 67 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of physiology. Invented the electrocardiogram (ECG), a device that measures the electrical activity of the heart. The invention revolutionized the diagnosis of heart conditions. Served as a professor of physiology and published numerous research papers that advanced the understanding of cardiac physiology.

Continue Reading

James McKeen Cattell

Psychologist and academic leader
Born
May 25th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1944 81 years ago — 83 years old

Pioneered the field of psychology as an academic discipline and emphasized the importance of empirical research. Developed the first psychological laboratory in the United States at Columbia University. Contributed to the establishment of psychology as a science through his work on mental testing and measurement. Advocated for the application of psychology in educational and industrial settings. Engaged in various scholarly activities, including publishing influential research and serving in significant academic roles.

Continue Reading

Manuel Teixeira Gomes

Portuguese politician and President
Born
May 27th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1941 83 years ago — 81 years old

Elected as the 7th President of Portugal, served from 1923 to 1925. Focused on stabilizing the political landscape marked by turmoil in the early 20th century. Resigned amidst political unrest and left for exile in France, where he continued writing and reflecting on politics. His presidency was defined by efforts to promote democracy and reform the political system.

Continue Reading

Margrethe Munthe

Norwegian songwriter and children's author
Born
May 27th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1931 94 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent songwriter and children's author, the individual contributed significantly to Norwegian culture through music. Created a collection of songs that captured the essence of childhood and were widely embraced in Norway. Compiled several songbooks aimed at children, emphasizing playful lyrics and engaging melodies. The songwriter's works have remained popular in Norwegian schools and households.

Continue Reading

Isaac Albéniz

Spanish pianist and composer, Iberia
Born
May 29th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1909 115 years ago — 48 years old

A prominent pianist and composer emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Early musical education took place in Barcelona and later in Brussels. Deployed innovative techniques and used Spanish folk themes in compositions. Iberia, a suite for piano, became one of the hallmark works showcasing intricate piano techniques and rich cultural references. Also, composed operas, piano works, and orchestral music, contributing to the classical music repertoire. Instrumental in establishing the 'Spanish' sound in classical music, influencing subsequent generations of composers.

Continue Reading

Walter Sickert

English painter and printmaker
Born
May 31st, 1860 164 years ago
Died
1942 83 years ago — 82 years old

An English painter and printmaker associated with the Post-Impressionist movement, this artist's work displayed a focus on urban life and figures, often featuring scenes from music halls and interiors. Major exhibitions took place throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with contributions to the Camden Town Group, a collective of artists based in London. Works included notable pieces such as 'Ennui' and 'The Cat and the Moon', reflecting a blend of realism and modernism while exploring themes of social commentary and psychological depth. Sickert's teaching at the Westminster School of Art influenced a generation of artists, further establishing his legacy within the art community.

Continue Reading

Alexis Lapointe

Canadian long-distance runner
Born
June 4th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
1924 101 years ago — 64 years old

Renowned as a long-distance runner from Canada, participated prominently in multiple races during the late 19th century. Secured numerous victories in events across Canada and the United States. Achieved significant success in the Boston Marathon, demonstrating exceptional endurance and speed. Competed in various distance events, earning a reputation as a leading figure in Canadian athletics of the era.

Continue Reading