What Happened This Year 1863

Born in 1863

Horatio Parker

American composer and organist, 'Mona's Song'
Born
September 15th, 1863 161 years ago
Died
1919 106 years ago — 56 years old

An organist, composer, and educator, contributed significantly to American classical music. Studied in Europe and returned to the U.S. to teach composition and music theory. Helped establish the music department at Yale University, profoundly influencing American music education. Composed operas, choral works, and orchestral pieces, with a notable focus on blending European traditions with American themes.

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John Bunny

American actor & silent film star
Born
September 21st, 1863 161 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1915 109 years ago — 51 years old

This individual was a silent film actor who gained recognition in the early 1900s. Primarily active in the 1910s, starred in a range of comedic and dramatic roles. Gained fame for the character roles portrayed in various productions. Worked extensively with the American Film Company and was a leading figure in early cinema.

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Mary Church Terrell

American author and civil rights activist
Born
September 23rd, 1863 161 years ago
Died
1954 71 years ago — 91 years old

An author and civil rights activist, worked towards racial equality and women’s suffrage. Played a significant role in the founding of the National Association of Colored Women. Served as the first president of the organization and was a prominent figure in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Advocated for educational opportunities for African Americans and contributed to the civil rights movement through speeches and writings.

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Hugo Haase

German lawyer and politician
Born
September 29th, 1863 161 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1919 105 years ago — 56 years old

Acted as a prominent lawyer and jurist in Germany, contributing to legal reforms. Engaged in politics and became a member of the Social Democratic Party. Served in the German Reichstag and advocated for workers' rights. Played a significant role in shaping policies during the post-World War I period. Participated actively in debates surrounding the Weimar Constitution and its implications.

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Reinhard Scheer

German admiral and World War I naval leader
Born
September 30th, 1863 161 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1928 96 years ago — 65 years old

An admiral in the Imperial German Navy, played a significant role during World War I. Commanded the High Seas Fleet and led the German naval forces at the Battle of Jutland in 1916, which was one of the largest naval battles in history. Implemented naval strategies to engage the British Royal Navy and contributed to the development of naval warfare tactics during the conflict. Scheer's leadership and decisions heavily influenced Germany's naval operations throughout the war.

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Pyotr Kozlov

Russian archaeologist and explorer
Born
October 3rd, 1863 161 years ago
Died
1935 90 years ago — 72 years old

An archaeologist and explorer, contributed significantly to the study of Central Asia, particularly Mongolia and Tibet. Conducted expeditions in the early 20th century, focusing on the history and cultures of the region. Led a crucial archaeological expedition to the ancient capital of Khara-Khoto, unearthing valuable artifacts and texts. His work laid the foundation for future research in these areas. Authored several works that documented these explorations and findings.

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Edythe Chapman

American actress in silent films
Born
October 8th, 1863 161 years ago
Died
October 15th, 1948 76 years ago — 85 years old

Edythe Chapman was an American actress active during the silent film era. She began her career on stage before transitioning to film. Chapman featured in multiple silent films during the early 20th century, gaining recognition for her performances. Her work included roles in films such as 'The Mark of Zorro' and 'The Hunchback of Notre Dame'. She contributed significantly to the industry, proving to be a talented character actress.

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Edward Bok

Journalist and author of 'The Americanization of Edward Bok'
Born
October 9th, 1863 161 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1930 95 years ago — 66 years old

Born in the Netherlands, a prominent journalist and author established a successful career in the United States. Played a significant role in the development of American magazine journalism as the editor of the Ladies' Home Journal for 30 years. Advocated for social reform, including public housing and education improvement, through various writings and editorials. Authored a memoir that detailed his journey and experiences in America, which received widespread acclaim.

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Austen Chamberlain

Chancellor of the Exchequer, Nobel laureate
Born
October 16th, 1863 161 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1937 88 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent businessman and politician served as Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1924 to 1929. Championed financial reforms during a period of economic recovery. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1925 for efforts in promoting international arms control. Represented the Conservative Party and significantly influenced British fiscal policy in the early 20th century.

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