What Happened This Year 1861

Born in 1861

Maximilian von Spee

Admiral during World War I
Born
June 22nd, 1861 163 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1914 110 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1861, served as an admiral in the Imperial German Navy. Commanded the East Asia Squadron, engaging in naval battles during World War I. Led the fleet that participated in the Battle of Coronel, which resulted in a significant naval victory for Germany. Engaged in the Battle of the Falkland Islands, where the squadron faced defeat. Instrumental in establishing German naval presence in the Pacific region.

Continue Reading

William James Mayo

American physician, co-founder of Mayo Clinic
Born
June 29th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent American physician and surgeon, established a reputation for excellence in medical practice. Along with his brother, co-founded Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, which became a leading healthcare institution. Played a pivotal role in shaping modern medical practices and collaboration between physicians. Contributed to advancements in surgery and patient care through innovative techniques and education.

Continue Reading

Nettie Stevens

Geneticist recognized for chromosomal research
Born
July 7th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1912 113 years ago — 51 years old

A pioneering geneticist contributed significantly to the understanding of sex determination in organisms. Conducted extensive research on chromosomes in various species, particularly the mealworm. Established that the presence of specific chromosomes was pivotal in determining the sex of an individual. Conducted experiments that led to the identification of the X and Y chromosomes' roles in genetic inheritance. Played a fundamental role in laying the groundwork for the field of genetics, influencing future studies and research.

Continue Reading

Anton Arensky

Russian pianist and composer of classics
Born
July 12th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1906 119 years ago — 44 years old

A prominent composer and pianist, contributed significantly to Russian music in the late 19th century. Studied at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory and later became a professor there. Composed chamber music, orchestral works, and operas, often reflecting the Romantic style. Notable for reviving the music of earlier composers and integrating folk themes into compositions. Worked alongside contemporaries like Tchaikovsky and Rimsky-Korsakov, and served as the conductor for the Moscow Philharmonic Society.

Continue Reading

Kate M. Gordon

American activist for women's suffrage
Born
July 14th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1932 92 years ago — 71 years old

An advocate for women's rights and suffrage, contributed significantly to the movement in the early 20th century. Played a pivotal role in organizing campaigns, fostering dialogue, and promoting legislation aimed at granting women the right to vote. Participated in various national conventions and was associated with numerous women's organizations. Her efforts reflected a commitment to social change during a transformative era in American history.

Continue Reading

Kadambini Ganguly

Pioneer Indian female physician
Born
July 18th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1923 102 years ago — 62 years old

A pioneering figure in the medical field, the individual became one of the first Indian women to obtain a degree, graduating in 1886 from the Calcutta Medical College. She played a crucial role in advocating for women's rights in education and healthcare. Throughout her career, she worked to improve the healthcare access for women and children in India, often facing societal challenges while striving to break the barriers established by gender norms. Her determination and achievements set a precedent for future generations of women in medicine.

Continue Reading

Sammy Jones

Cricketer and Australian Test player
Born
August 1st, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 90 years old

An Australian cricketer who played for Victoria and represented Australia in Test matches. Jones was a prominent wicketkeeper-batsman during the late 19th century. Making his Test debut in 1882, he participated in the inaugural Ashes series against England. Over his career, Jones contributed significantly both behind the stumps and with the bat in a time when cricket was evolving as a popular sport in Australia.

Continue Reading

Prafulla Chandra Ray

Chemist and academic, founder of Bengal Chemicals
Born
August 2nd, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1944 81 years ago — 83 years old

Prafulla Chandra Ray contributed significantly to the field of chemistry in India. A prominent academic, he established Bengal Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals, the first pharmaceutical company in India. Ray's research primarily focused on the chemistry of arsenic and nitrogen compounds. He played a key role in the promotion of chemical education in India and was involved with several educational institutions. His dedication to fostering chemistry as a rigorous academic discipline was instrumental in shaping the future of chemical sciences in the country.

Continue Reading

Daniel Edward Howard

16th President of Liberia
Born
August 4th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1935 89 years ago — 73 years old

Served as the 16th president of Liberia from 1920 to 1921. Howard was a prominent figure in the political landscape during his presidency, navigating various national challenges. Before his presidency, held several administrative positions within the Liberian government. His tenure focused on issues such as national unification and economic development amidst a backdrop of political strife. After leaving office, continued to be involved in civic affairs, contributing to the governance and stability of Liberia during tumultuous times.

Continue Reading