What Happened This Year 1865

Born in 1865

Béla Jankovich

Hungarian economist and Minister of Education
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1939 86 years ago — 74 years old

An economist and politician held the position of Minister of Education in Hungary. This role involved overseeing educational policies and reforms during a significant period in Hungarian history. Contributions to the educational system shaped the curriculum and administration of schools. Engaged in various political discussions regarding the direction of education and its impact on society.

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William Merriam Burton

American chemist known for cracking process
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1954 70 years ago — 89 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of chemistry with the invention of the Burton process, a method for refining crude oil into gasoline. This method allowed for more efficient conversion of petroleum into fuel, which became crucial during the 20th century. Conducted research that advanced petrochemical processes and supported the growth of the oil industry. Work led to improvements in fuel quality and production techniques.

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Edward Terry Sanford

United States Assistant Attorney General
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
March 8th, 1930 95 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the United States Assistant Attorney General and as a jurist. Appointed to the United States Supreme Court, authored substantial opinions that shaped jurisprudence. His tenure on the court included significant cases that impacted civil rights and federal authority.

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Wilson Bentley

Meteorologist and snowflake photographer
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1931 93 years ago — 66 years old

Contributed to the field of meteorology through pioneering the study and photography of snowflakes. Developed techniques for capturing detailed images of snowflakes, becoming the first person to photograph them in 1885. Published numerous works on snowflakes that explored their structure, classification, and symmetry. His extensive collection of snowflake photographs remains significant in meteorological studies, illustrating the diverse forms of ice crystals. Bentley's work also included observation and recording of weather patterns, further advancing understanding in meteorological science.

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Wilfred Grenfell

Physician and missionary in Newfoundland
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1940 84 years ago — 75 years old

Served as a medical missionary in Newfoundland and Labrador, providing essential healthcare services to isolated communities. Helped establish hospitals, nursing stations, and medical centers, significantly improving healthcare access in the region. Was involved in the promotion of education and social initiatives, focusing on the well-being of the local populations. Contributed to the creation of the Grenfell Mission, which aimed to provide medical, educational, and social assistance. Was active in both the medical and missionary fields until death.

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Sarah Ann Jenyns

Australian entrepreneur and Wool industry leader
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
February 29th, 1952 73 years ago — 87 years old

An Australian entrepreneur focused on the wool industry, played a significant role in promoting wool production and trade. Actively participated in various wool exhibitions and was instrumental in developing local markets for wool products. Contributed to the establishment of organizations aimed at supporting wool producers and fostering innovation within the industry. Involved in community initiatives that aimed at enhancing the sustainability of wool production, and played a part in advocating for the interests of Australian wool stakeholders.

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Gabriel Narutowicz

Polish politician, 1st President of Poland
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1922 102 years ago — 57 years old

An engineer and politician, served as the first President of the Republic of Poland from December 11, 1922, until his assassination five days later. Emphasized national unity and diplomatic relations, particularly advocating for Polish independence. Contributed to the country's political landscape following World War I, participating in foundational government activities and reforms.

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Alice Woodby McKane

Pioneer Black female physician in Georgia
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1948 77 years ago — 83 years old

First Black woman to graduate from the Medical College of Georgia, contributing to the field of medicine in Savannah, Georgia. Established a medical practice dedicated to the community, providing much-needed healthcare services. Actively participated in civic engagements and health education initiatives to improve public health awareness among African Americans during a time of racial segregation.

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Dmitry Merezhkovsky

Russian author and philosopher
Born
1865 160 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1941 83 years ago — 76 years old

An influential Russian author, poet, and philosopher, contributed significantly to Russian literature in the early 20th century. Explored themes of spirituality, love, and the tension between materialism and idealism. Worked extensively in literary criticism and contributed to the Symbolist movement. Authored several notable works, including 'The Resurrection of the Gods' and 'Andrei Bely: A Study of his Works'. His writings reflected the complexity of pre-revolutionary Russian society and questioned the meaning of existence.

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