What Happened This Year 1864

People Who Died in 1864

Christian Friedrich Hebbel

German poet and playwright, notable works
Born
March 18th, 1813 211 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1863 161 years ago — 50 years old

Born in 1813, a German poet and playwright contributed significantly to 19th-century literature. Wrote several notable works, including the plays 'Maria Magdalena' and 'Hereditary Witches'. His poetry reflects strong romantic and existential themes, exploring human emotions and social issues. Hebbel's work showcased innovative use of language and structure in dramatic arts, influencing the evolution of German theater.

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Caleb Blood Smith

U.S. Secretary of the Interior
Born
April 16th, 1808 216 years ago
Died
January 7th, 1864 161 years ago — 55 years old

Served as the 6th U.S. Secretary of the Interior from 1861 to 1862. Participated in the early stages of the Civil War as part of President Abraham Lincoln's cabinet. Engaged in policy-making that impacted the management of public lands and resources. Prior to the cabinet position, held a significant role in journalism and contributed to the establishment of various public policies.

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Stephen Foster

American composer of parlor music
Born
July 4th, 1826 198 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1864 161 years ago — 37 years old

A significant American composer and songwriter, primarily associated with the mid-19th century. Contributed immensely to the development of American music, particularly through parlor songs and minstrel shows. Foster's compositions include lyrical melodies that reflect the social themes of his time. Many of his works have become enduring pieces in American musical heritage. Foster's ability to capture sentiment in song has led to continued performances of his music well beyond his lifetime.

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Isaac Nathan

Composer and journalist from Australia
Born
1792 233 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1864 161 years ago — 72 years old

Isaac Nathan contributed significantly to the musical and journalistic landscape of 19th century Australia. As a composer, he is recognized for his role in popularizing Australian folk music and integrating it into professional concert practice. Nathan also served as a journalist, writing for various publications and advocating for the Australian music scene. His work encapsulated the cultural transitions occurring in Australia during a time of colonial expansion and national identity formation. His influence as a promoter of Australian music remained significant in the years following his passing.

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Anton Schindler

Austrian secretary and biographer
Born
1795 230 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1864 161 years ago — 69 years old

Served as a secretary to Ludwig van Beethoven, documenting the composer's life and works. Authored a biography titled 'Beethoven: His Life, Work and Genius', which provides insights into Beethoven's character and music. Schindler's writings include transcriptions of Beethoven's conversations and anecdotes that reveal the composer's personality. In addition to his biography, contributed to the preservation of Beethoven's legacy through various writings and correspondence.

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Émile Clapeyron

Physicist, engineer, thermodynamics pioneer
Born
1799 226 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1864 161 years ago — 65 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of thermodynamics with the formulation of Clapeyron's equation and the establishment of the first law of thermodynamics. Designed and built steam engines, enhancing their performance and efficiency. Provided insights into the behavior of gases and phase transitions, influencing future developments in thermal engineering and science.

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Vuk Karadžić

Serbian philologist and linguist.
Born
1787 238 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1864 161 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent philologist and linguist contributed significantly to Serbian language and literature. Focused on collecting and standardizing folk language, this individual initiated the reform of Serbian spelling and grammar. Published 'Rječnik srpskohrvatskog jezika' and established a modern Serbian orthography. Worked extensively on compiling folkloric tales, shedding light on Serbian cultural identity. Advocated for the use of the vernacular in literature.

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Louis-Hippolyte Lafontaine

Canadian politician and jurist
Born
October 4th, 1807 217 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1864 161 years ago — 56 years old

Served as the third Premier of Canada East, playing a crucial role in the establishment of responsible government in the province. Advocated for civil liberties and the use of both English and French in the legislature. Participated extensively in political life, contributing to the unification of Canadian provinces. His efforts paved the way for the eventual confederation of Canada.

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Ulric Dahlgren

American Colonel and Civil War officer
Born
April 3rd, 1842 182 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1864 161 years ago — 21 years old

Served as a colonel in the Union Army during the American Civil War. Led troops in various significant campaigns and was involved in operations in Virginia and Pennsylvania. Died in combat during a cavalry raid. His strategies and boldness were notable during key battles, including the Battle of Gettysburg. Posthumously remembered for his contributions and leadership.

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