What Happened This Year 1862

People Who Died in 1862

Mikhail Ostrogradsky

Mathematician and physicist
Born
September 24th, 1801 223 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1862 163 years ago — 60 years old

Contributions included significant work in mathematics and physics, particularly in the field of calculus and differential equations. Developed the Ostrogradsky theorem, which addresses the moments and centers of mass of a curve. Made advancements in the understanding of variational principles in mathematical physics.

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Samuel Colt

American engineer and inventor of firearms
Born
July 19th, 1814 210 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1862 163 years ago — 47 years old

An engineer and businessman who founded Colt's Manufacturing Company in 1855. Colt revolutionized the firearms industry with the development of the revolver. The invention of the Colt Paterson revolver in 1836 allowed for multiple shots without reloading, enhancing the effectiveness of firearms. The company's products became widely used in the military and law enforcement. Colt's innovations established a standard for future firearm designs.

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John Tyler

10th President of the United States
Born
March 29th, 1790 234 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1862 163 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the 10th President of the United States from 1841 to 1845 after the death of William Henry Harrison. Played a key role in the annexation of Texas and was the first vice president to succeed to the presidency due to a president's death. He faced significant opposition from his own party, the Whigs, leading to conflicts over policies and party loyalty. After leaving the presidency, remained active in politics and became a supporter of the Confederacy during the Civil War.

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Felix Zollicoffer

Confederate general and politician
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1862 163 years ago — 50 years old

Contributed to the Confederate cause during the American Civil War. Held the rank of general and participated in key battles, including the Battle of Mill Springs. Served in the U.S. House of Representatives before the war, representing Tennessee. Was known for his leadership in military strategies and local governance.

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Božena Němcová

Czech author and poet, 'Babička'
Born
1820 205 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1862 163 years ago — 42 years old

An influential Czech author and poet, this individual was a leading figure in Czech literature during the 19th century. The literary work 'Babička' depicted rural life in Bohemia and has become a staple of Czech literature. Themes of family, tradition, and nature were prevalent in works, resonating with many readers of the time. Active in a time of national revival, the individual contributed to the Czech cultural and literary landscape. Besides writing, efforts to promote Czech language and culture also marked this person's contributions. Several stories captured the essence of Czech identity and served as a rallying point during a period of heightened national sentiment.

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Jean-Baptiste Biot

French physicist and astronomer
Born
April 21st, 1774 250 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1862 163 years ago — 87 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of physics and astronomy in the 19th century. Focused on polarization of light, determining the laws governing it. Developed methods for measuring the density of gases and participated in expeditions to observe celestial events. Authored several works on astronomy and mathematics.

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Francisco de Paula Martínez de la Rosa y Berdejo

Spanish Prime Minister and playwright
Born
March 10th, 1787 238 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1862 163 years ago — 74 years old

A Spanish playwright and politician held the position of Prime Minister of Spain. Involved in politics during a turbulent period in Spanish history, he supported liberal policies and reforms. Authored several plays, including 'La venganza de Tamar' and 'El rayo de luz', which contributed to Spanish theater. Involved in the government during the regency of Maria Cristina, shaping political discourse of the time.

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Elizabeth Siddal

English poet and artist's model
Born
1829 196 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1862 163 years ago — 33 years old

An English poet and artist's model, significant contributions included collaborations with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. Siddal's poetry often reflected her experiences and emotions, showcasing her talent beyond modeling. The collection titled 'The Fairy Temptation' demonstrated her literary skills, offering insights into her artistic vision. Siddal's relationship with Dante Gabriel Rossetti also influenced both her artistic and poetic output, further intertwining their legacies in art history.

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William Pennington

American politician and governor
Born
May 4th, 1796 228 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1862 163 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the 13th Governor of New Jersey and the 23rd Speaker of the United States House of Representatives. Participated in significant legislative processes during a pivotal time in American history. Engaged in political issues of the mid-19th century, influencing governance and public policy within the state and nation. Advocated for various legislative measures and reforms during tenure as a representative.

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