What Happened This Year 1864

Born in 1864

Harry 'Breaker' Morant

Lieutenant in the Second Boer War
Born
1864 161 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1902 123 years ago — 38 years old

Served as a lieutenant in the Australian contingent during the Second Boer War. Participated in various military operations in South Africa. Became notable for being court-martialed and executed for his actions during the war, which raised significant discussions about military justice and ethical conduct during wartime. His life and trial have been the subject of literature and film, including the 1980 movie 'Breaker! Breaker!'.

Continue Reading

Johan Halvorsen

Norwegian violinist and composer
Born
1864 161 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1935 89 years ago — 71 years old

A Norwegian violinist, composer, and conductor contributed significantly to classical music in Norway. From 1893, served as the conductor of the National Theatre in Oslo, where he conducted numerous productions. Composed various works for orchestra and chamber ensembles, blending Norwegian folk melodies with classical forms. Additionally, his arrangements of Edvard Grieg's works gained recognition, enhancing the appreciation of Norwegian music. His compositions remain part of the Scandinavian musical repertoire.

Continue Reading

José Gregorio Hernández

Venezuelan physician and educator
Born
1864 161 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1919 105 years ago — 55 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of medicine in Venezuela, emphasizing public health and medical education. Established a medical school and advocated for public health reforms. Played a key role in curing infectious diseases prevalent in the region. Engaged in charitable work, focusing on healthcare for the underprivileged and promoting education. His legacy continues to influence the medical community in Venezuela and Latin America.

Continue Reading

Roman Dmowski

Polish politician and foreign minister
Born
1864 161 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1939 86 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent Polish politician and diplomat, played a significant role in Polish politics during the early 20th century. Actively involved in the movement for Polish independence, worked extensively to gain international support for Polish sovereignty. Served as Minister of Foreign Affairs in the reestablished Polish state after World War I. Represented Poland at the Paris Peace Conference in 1919, advocating for Poland's borders and territorial integrity.

Continue Reading

Li Yuanhong

Chinese general and politician, 2nd President
Born
1864 161 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1928 97 years ago — 64 years old

Served as a military leader and politician during the late Qing dynasty and early Republic of China. His career included participation in significant military campaigns, which led to his rise in power. Held the position of the second president of the Republic of China, with terms marked by tumultuous political landscapes and struggles for control within the government. Worked to stabilize the nation following political upheaval after the fall of the Qing dynasty.

Continue Reading

Herbert Macaulay

Nigerian politician and journalist
Born
1864 161 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1946 79 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent figure in Nigerian politics, Macaulay played a key role in the struggle for Nigerian independence. He founded the Nigerian National Democratic Party, advocating for self-governance and civil rights. His work as a journalist highlighted social and political issues in Nigeria, and he used his platform to influence public opinion and promote reforms. Macaulay was deeply involved in the nationalist movement, organizing campaigns and rallies that rallied support for the cause. His efforts contributed to the groundwork for Nigeria's eventual independence from colonial rule in the mid-20th century.

Continue Reading

Draga Mašin

Serbian Queen consort of Alexander I
Born
1864 161 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1903 122 years ago — 39 years old

Born in Serbia, held the title of Queen consort as the wife of Alexander I of Serbia. The marriage to Alexander I faced significant public scrutiny and political challenges due to the difference in social standings and opposition from the royal family. Despite these challenges, remained a prominent figure during her husband's reign. Her tenure as queen ended tragically with her assassination in 1903, an event that marked a significant turning point in Serbian politics and monarchy.

Continue Reading

Leonard Trelawny Hobhouse

Sociologist and academic writer
Born
1864 161 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1929 95 years ago — 65 years old

Contributed to the development of social science in England. Focused on sociology, political philosophy, and ethical theory, exploring the relationship between individual and society. Instrumental in promoting liberal ideas and welfare legislation. Worked in academic institutions and published numerous articles and books that influenced social policy and thought. Engaged in public speaking and journalism, discussing issues of social reform during the early 20th century.

Continue Reading

F. Holland Day

Photographer and publisher focused on visual art
Born
1864 161 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1933 91 years ago — 69 years old

A pioneering photographer and publisher, significant contributions were made to the development of photography as an art form. Established a successful publishing company that focused on artistic books and photographic prints. Played a crucial role in organizing exhibitions that showcased contemporary photography. Engaged in artistic movements and collaborated with notable photographers, promoting their innovative work. Actively involved in the promotion of diverse photographic styles, particularly in portrait and pictorialist photography. His work influenced later generations of photographers and expanded the acceptance of photography in the fine arts.

Continue Reading