What Happened This Year 1861

Born in 1861

Corinne Roosevelt Robinson

American poet and author
Born
September 27th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1933 92 years ago — 72 years old

An American poet and author, contributed to literature during the early 20th century. Published numerous poems and essays, often reflecting personal experiences. Actively involved in cultural initiatives and women's rights. Engaged in public speaking and poetry readings, helping to promote literary arts among her contemporaries.

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Amélie of Orléans

Queen Consort of Portugal
Born
September 28th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 90 years old

Born into French nobility, served as queen consort of Portugal from 1886 until the monarchy was abolished in 1910. Played a significant role in the royal court and supported various charitable causes during her reign. After the establishment of the Portuguese Republic, lived in exile across Europe, notably in France.

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William Wrigley Jr.

American businessman, founded Wrigley Company
Born
September 30th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1932 93 years ago — 71 years old

Founded the Wrigley Company, which specialized in chewing gum production and became a major player in the confectionery industry. Established a successful marketing strategy that included offers of prizes with the purchase of gums. Expanded product lines to include popular brands such as Juicy Fruit and Doublemint. Originally started as a soap manufacturer before shifting focus to gum. By the early 1900s, led the company to become the largest chewing gum manufacturer in the world.

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Frederic Remington

Painter and sculptor of Western themes
Born
October 4th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1909 115 years ago — 48 years old

An artist focused on the American West, contributed through paintings and sculptures that depicted cowboys, Native Americans, and cavalry scenes. Influenced by experiences in the West, pursued studies in art at Yale. Worked as an illustrator for magazines and became associated with the Romanticized view of the West. Established a unique style characterized by action and emotion. Created notable works such as 'The Cowboy' and 'The Broncho Buster,' which continue to define the imagery of the American frontier. Later in life, turned to sculpture and produced bronze pieces, several of which remain significant in Western art.

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Walter Rauschenbusch

Theologian and key figure in Social Gospel
Born
October 4th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1918 107 years ago — 57 years old

An American pastor and theologian, contributed significantly to the Social Gospel movement in the early 20th century. Advocated for social justice and the application of Christian ethics to social problems. Held a teaching position at Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School, where influential works were created. Writings emphasized the need for societal reform based on Christian principles and included discussions on poverty, labor rights, and the role of the church in addressing social issues.

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Fridtjof Nansen

Norwegian explorer and Nobel laureate
Born
October 10th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1930 94 years ago — 68 years old

An explorer, scientist, and humanitarian contributed significantly to polar exploration and oceanography. Participated in the first Arctic drift expedition aboard the Fram, which advanced knowledge of Arctic conditions. Involved in humanitarian efforts after World War I, particularly in aiding refugees and children affected by the conflict. Received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1922 for efforts in promoting peace and understanding.

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Julia A. Ames

Journalist, editor, and reformer
Born
October 14th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1891 134 years ago — 30 years old

Ames contributed to journalism through editorial work and reform advocacy. Played a significant role in women's rights and social reform movements. Edited various publications focusing on social justice issues and women's suffrage. Participated in founding organizations aimed at promoting women's education and professional opportunities.

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J. B. Bury

Irish historian and scholar
Born
October 16th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1927 97 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent historian and scholar, contributed significantly to the fields of history and classical studies. Served as a professor of modern history at the University of Dublin, shaping historical thought in Ireland and beyond. Wrote extensively on subjects such as Roman history and the early Christian period, advancing scholarly discussions through rigorous analysis and critical thinking. Also involved in historical editing and contributed to the understanding of medieval scholarship and its evolution.

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Richard Sears

Tennis player and seven-time champion
Born
October 16th, 1861 163 years ago
Died
1943 82 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent tennis player during the late 19th century, this individual achieved significant success in amateur tennis competitions. Dominated the U.S. National Championships, winning seven consecutive titles from 1881 to 1887. His playing style and competitive spirit greatly contributed to the popularity of tennis in the United States during this period. In addition to his tennis career, also engaged in a successful business venture in the field of retail.

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