What Happened This Year 1860

Born in 1860

Jules Laforgue

Uruguayan-French poet and author
Born
August 16th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1887 137 years ago — 27 years old

Born in Uruguay and later settling in France, Laforgue became a significant figure in French poetry during the late 19th century. His work is characterized by a unique style that blends symbolism with modernist influences. He published several poetry collections and essays, with notable works including 'L'Imitation de Jésus-Christ' and 'Sonnets et poèmes'. His innovative techniques and thematic explorations of existential angst and irony have had a lasting impact on subsequent generations of poets.

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Raymond Poincaré

French politician and President
Born
August 20th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1934 90 years ago — 74 years old

Served as the 10th President of France from 1913 to 1920. Held the position of Prime Minister multiple times in the early 20th century. Contributed to post-World War I reconstruction efforts and was involved in the Treaty of Versailles negotiations. Also served as Minister of Finance and Minister of Foreign Affairs, influencing French economic and foreign policy during a critical period.

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Alfred Ploetz

German physician and eugenicist
Born
August 22nd, 1860 164 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1940 84 years ago — 79 years old

A physician and biologist, Ploetz contributed to the field of eugenics, advocating for selective breeding in humans to promote desirable traits. He was one of the early proponents of eugenics in Germany, establishing foundations that influenced later policies. His work focused on the intersection of biology and society, suggesting ways to improve the population through genetic principles. Ploetz published various works that outlined his ideas and proposed methods for promoting what he considered 'racial health.' His influence permeated through scientific circles and eventually impacted broader societal views on genetics.

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Paul Gottlieb Nipkow

Inventor of the Nipkow disk
Born
August 22nd, 1860 164 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1940 84 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed to the field of television technology with the invention of the Nipkow disk, a crucial component in early mechanical televisions. Developed this device in 1884, which enabled the transmission of images by scanning them. The innovation laid foundational work for future television systems and influenced video technology development through the 20th century.

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David Bowman

Australian lawyer and politician
Born
August 24th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
1916 109 years ago — 56 years old

Born in Australia in 1860, pursued a career in law and entered politics, representing the interests of the community. Served in various legal capacities, contributing to legislative advancements. Engaged in political discussions and decisions that shaped local governance, and participated in notable legal reforms during tenure in office.

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Isaac Levitan

Russian landscape painter and illustrator
Born
August 30th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
August 4th, 1900 124 years ago — 39 years old

Born in 1860, Levitan emerged as a prominent figure in Russian landscape painting. He became associated with the Peredvizhniki movement, which advocated for realism in art. His works often depicted the beauty of Russian nature, capturing dynamic atmospheres and moods. Notable pieces include 'The Lake. Evening' and 'Golden Autumn,' which highlight his mastery in conveying light and color. Levitan's ability to evoke emotional responses through landscapes established him as a pivotal artist in the late 19th century.

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Jane Addams

Sociologist and Nobel Prize laureate
Born
September 6th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1935 89 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1860, a sociologist and author played a crucial role in the social reform movement in the United States. After co-founding Hull House in Chicago, focused on community service and advocacy for immigrant welfare, women's rights, and labor reforms. Delivered lectures and published numerous works, highlighting the importance of social justice and public health. In 1931, awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for efforts in promoting peace and cooperation among nations. Engaged in various initiatives aimed at improving living conditions for the urban poor and advocating for social reforms.

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May Jordan McConnel

Australian trade unionist and suffragist
Born
September 6th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1928 96 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent trade unionist and suffragist, significant contributions made toward women's rights and labor reform in Australia. Actively participated in the formation of the Australian Women's National League, advocating for women's suffrage and social justice. Engaged in various campaigns to improve labor conditions and wages for women, emphasizing the importance of equal rights. Involved in organizing events and rallies to promote the suffrage movement across the country, raising awareness and support for legislation.

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Grandma Moses

American painter of folk art
Born
September 7th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1961 63 years ago — 101 years old

An American painter began painting in her seventies, focusing on folk art that depicted rural life and landscapes. Paintings featured vibrant colors and a naive style, capturing scenes of everyday activities and seasonal changes. Gained national attention after a 1940 exhibition in New York City. Art remains celebrated for its charm and simplicity, appealing to a broad audience. Continued creating art into her nineties and received recognition for contributions to American art.

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