What Happened This Year 1865

Historical Events from This Year 1865 (View all 62)

Military & Warfare

Brazilians and Coloradans Capture Paysandú

January 2nd, 1865 160 years ago

In the context of the Uruguayan War, the siege of Paysandú culminated in its capture by Brazilian and Colorado forces. This crucial military engagement took place in an attempt by these forces to control the city, which was a stronghold of the Blanco faction. After a protracted siege, the city was taken, marking a decisive point in the conflict and shifting the balance of power in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Union Victory at Fort Fisher in North Carolina

January 15th, 1865 160 years ago

Fort Fisher, a stronghold for the Confederacy in North Carolina, was captured by Union forces on January 15, 1865. This pivotal battle significantly weakened the Confederate supply chain, cutting off access to the last major seaport at Wilmington. Led by Major General Alfred H. Terry, the Union army employed a combination of naval bombardment and ground assault to overcome the formidable defenses of the fort, marking a turning point in the war as the South struggled to sustain its military efforts.

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Politics & Government

Thirteenth Amendment Passed by Congress

January 31st, 1865 160 years ago

The United States Congress passed the Thirteenth Amendment, a pivotal constitutional amendment that abolished slavery throughout the United States. Following intense debates and advocacy, the House of Representatives voted in favor of the amendment, with significant support from President Abraham Lincoln, who emphasized the importance of ending slavery in his efforts to unify the nation. The amendment was then submitted to the states for ratification, marking a critical moment in American history during the Civil War.

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Military & Warfare

Robert E. Lee Named General-in-Chief of Confederacy

January 31st, 1865 160 years ago

Robert E. Lee was appointed the general-in-chief of all Confederate armies amid the declining fortunes of the Confederacy. This appointment was partly due to the South's struggles in the face of overwhelming Union forces. Lee was tasked with coordinating military strategies to bolster Confederate defenses as the Civil War drew closer to its conclusion. His leadership was seen as pivotal in attempting to unify the fragmented command structure of the Southern forces during this critical phase of the war.

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Politics & Government

Lincoln Promulgates the Thirteenth Amendment

February 1st, 1865 160 years ago

President Abraham Lincoln signed the Thirteenth Amendment, which abolished slavery in the United States. This landmark legislation marked a critical moment in American history and reflected the growing social and political momentum toward emancipation. The amendment was passed by Congress in January 1865 and was signed by Lincoln at the White House in Washington, D.C. Its passage was crucial in the context of the ongoing Civil War, aiming to ensure liberty and equality for all individuals, particularly African Americans. The Thirteenth Amendment set the stage for subsequent civil rights advancements.

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Military & Warfare

Völkner Incident during East Cape War

February 3rd, 1865 160 years ago

The Völkner Incident involved the capture and killing of missionary Carl Völkner by Māori forces in New Zealand during the East Cape War. This occurred after tensions escalated between the British colonists and Māori tribes who resisted colonization efforts. Völkner, who had been working in the region, was perceived as a symbol of colonization. His death fueled further conflict in an already volatile environment.

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Born in 1865 (View all 133)

Henry Lytton

English actor and comedic performer
Born
January 3rd, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1936 89 years ago — 71 years old

An English actor and comedian, recognized for performances in light operas. Achieved early fame in the production of 'The Pirates of Penzance' and continued to perform in the Savoy operas of Gilbert and Sullivan. Served as a prominent figure in British theatre during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, integrating humor and music into performances. Established a legacy within the realm of comic operettas, influencing future generations of actors in the genre.

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Winnaretta Singer

American philanthropist and patron
Born
January 8th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1943 82 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1865, a prominent American philanthropist, supported numerous artistic and cultural initiatives. Played a significant role in the establishment of various salons and institutions that promoted the arts in Europe. Championed causes for women's rights and advancements in social issues, particularly in France. Engaged with leading artists and composers of the time, contributing to the cultural landscape of the early 20th century.

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Princess Marie of Orléans

French royal and philanthropist
Born
January 13th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1908 117 years ago — 43 years old

Born into the House of Orléans, significant activities centered around social welfare and education. Marriage to Prince Philippe, Count of Paris, aligned with royal duties in France. Actively supported various charitable organizations and educational initiatives. Established the École des Enfants de France to promote education among disadvantaged children. Involved in the French Red Cross during World War I, contributing to wartime relief efforts.

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Sir Charles Fergusson

English general and New Zealand Governor-General
Born
January 17th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1865, a military officer in the British Army achieved the rank of General. Served as the 3rd Governor-General of New Zealand from 1924 to 1930. During the tenure, focused on promoting good relations between the government and the Māori people, and played a significant role in post-World War I recovery efforts. Advocated for civil defense measures and advancement in agricultural practices as part of his administration.

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Yvette Guilbert

Singer and actress in cabaret
Born
January 20th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1944 81 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent figure in the Parisian cabaret scene, contributions spanned singing and acting. Gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly remembered for performances at the famous Moulin Rouge. Established a unique style that blended theatrical elements with music. Worked with notable composers, producing distinctive songs that reflected contemporary themes. Also performed in operetta and recorded numerous songs, helping to popularize French chanson.

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Wilhelm Ramsay

Geologist, professor and pioneer in geology
Born
January 20th, 1865 160 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1928 97 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent geologist and professor, contributed significantly to the understanding of geological formations. Developed new theories in the field of geomorphology and mineralogy, influencing both academic research and practical applications. His research encompassed various aspects of geology, including the study of rock formations and their implications for understanding Earth's history. Held academic positions at leading institutions and mentored numerous students, fostering future generations of geologists.

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People Who Died in 1865 (View all 59)

Aimé duc de Clermont-Tonnerre

French General and Minister of Defence
Born
November 27th, 1779 245 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1865 160 years ago — 85 years old

Served as a general in the French Army and held the position of Minister of Defence. Contributed to military strategies during significant conflicts in France in the 19th century. Engaged in political affairs and helped shape defense policies of the time. Participation in military leadership solidified a legacy within the French military landscape.

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Edmond François Valentin About

French journalist and author of novels
Born
February 14th, 1828 197 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1865 160 years ago — 36 years old

A journalist and author, focused on social and political themes. Authored several novels, including "Tolla" and "Le Roman d'un jeune homme pauvre". Noted for satirical works and criticism of society, especially concerning the issues of the time. Engaged in journalism with regular contributions to various publications, providing insightful commentary on contemporary events. His works often reflected personal experiences and the struggles of the individual within society.

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Pierre-Joseph Proudhon

French economist and socialist theorist
Born
January 15th, 1809 216 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1865 160 years ago — 56 years old

Born in France in 1809, contributed to political philosophy and economics. Advocated for mutualism and was the first to declare that 'property is theft.' Engaged in various political activities, including opposition to bourgeois capitalism. Wrote extensively, with major works including 'What Is Property?' and 'System of Economic Contradictions.' His ideas laid groundwork for later socialist movements and anarchist theory, influencing various political schools of thought.

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Heinrich Lenz

Physicist known for Lenz's Law
Born
February 12th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1865 160 years ago — 60 years old

A physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of electromagnetism. Formulated Lenz's Law, a fundamental principle that describes the direction of induced current in a conductor. Held a position as a professor and conducted research that advanced the understanding of electric currents and magnetic fields. Engaged in various scientific societies and published several important papers during his career.

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Otto Ludwig

German author and playwright
Born
February 11th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1865 160 years ago — 52 years old

An influential author and playwright, contributed significantly to German literature in the 19th century. Wrote novels, essays, plays, and critiques focusing on realism and psychological themes. The works exhibit a profound understanding of human emotions and social dynamics. Notable plays include 'Das Mädchen von Pjöngjang' and 'Der Erbfall', which reflect the complexities of human relationships. Engaged critically with contemporary writers and movements, shaping literary discussions of the time. Worked extensively as a critic, promoting literary standards in Germany during his era.

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Carl Sylvius Völkner

Priest and missionary in New Zealand
Born
1819 206 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1865 160 years ago — 46 years old

Served as a missionary and priest in New Zealand. Established a mission station at Opotiki. Engaged with local Maori communities and worked to promote the Christian faith. Contributed to the translation of biblical texts into the Maori language. Became involved in regional socio-political issues, leading to tensions with local tribes. Assassinated in 1865 amid conflicts between settlers and indigenous populations.

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