What Happened This Year 1865

People Who Died in 1865

Heinrich Barth

German explorer and African studies scholar
Born
February 16th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1865 159 years ago — 44 years old

Conducted extensive explorations in North and West Africa during the 19th century. Barth embarked on a journey from Tripoli to Timbuktu, which lasted from 1850 to 1855. Through this expedition, valuable geographical, ethnographic, and linguistic knowledge was gathered, significantly contributing to the understanding of African cultures and geography. Barth published several works detailing his travels, including 'Travels and Discoveries in North and Central Africa'. His research greatly influenced European perspectives of Africa during that era.

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Abraham Emanuel Fröhlich

Swiss minister and poet
Born
February 1st, 1796 229 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1865 159 years ago — 69 years old

A Swiss minister, poet, and educator contributed significantly to literature and religious education in the 19th century. Active in various educational reforms, emphasized the importance of teaching and the integration of moral values into education. Wrote numerous poems reflecting themes of nature and spirituality, often embraced in Swiss literary circles. Served as a minister, engaging in community service and religious activities while promoting education as a transformative force in society.

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Leopold I of Belgium

Belgian King and constitutional monarch
Born
December 16th, 1790 234 years ago
Died
December 10th, 1865 159 years ago — 74 years old

Reigned as the first King of the Belgians from 1831 until death in 1865. Ascended the throne following Belgium's independence from the Netherlands. Established a constitutional monarchy, providing stability to the nation during its formative years. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to gain international recognition for Belgium's sovereignty and worked to modernize the country. Oversaw the establishment of various institutions and infrastructures, promoting trade and industry.

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Johan Georg Forchhammer

Danish mineralogist and geologist
Born
July 24th, 1794 230 years ago
Died
December 14th, 1865 159 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1794, a primary figure in mineralogy and geology. Conducted extensive research on minerals and their compositions, providing foundational contributions to the field. Served as a professor at the University of Copenhagen, influencing future generations of geologists. Authored several key publications, including work on mineral classification and geological surveys of Denmark.

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Charles Lock Eastlake

English painter and art historian
Born
November 17th, 1793 231 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1865 159 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent figure in Victorian art, he specialized in landscape and historical painting. He served as the Director of the National Gallery in London from 1855 to 1865. Eastlake was also an influential art critic and wrote extensively on art and painting techniques. His writings contributed to the understanding and appreciation of various artists and movements during the 19th century. Notably, he made significant contributions to the critique of Old Masters and the promotion of contemporary British art. His approach to art history combined both academic rigor and accessible writing, impacting art education and appreciation.

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Lewis Powell

American soldier and attempted assassin
Born
April 22nd, 1844 181 years ago
Died
1865 160 years ago — 21 years old

Born in 1844, a soldier and member of the Confederate Army. Participated in the plot to assassinate prominent officials during the American Civil War. Attempted to kill Secretary of State William H. Seward on April 14, 1865, the same night as the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. Captured and tried for murder, later executed by hanging.

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Princess Sophie of Sweden

Swedish princess and socialite
Born
May 21st, 1801 224 years ago
Died
1865 160 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1801, she was a prominent member of the Swedish royal family. Raised in a noble environment, she married Prince Oscar of Sweden, who later became King Oscar I. Her role as a princess included participation in various social functions and charitable activities. She established various cultural and educational programs in Sweden. Additionally, she was closely involved in the arts, supporting artists and musicians. Throughout her life, she engaged with prominent figures in Swedish society, fostering connections between the monarchy and the public.

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Preston King

American lawyer and politician
Born
October 14th, 1806 218 years ago
Died
1865 160 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1806, a lawyer and politician actively participated in shaping legal and political landscapes. Served as a U.S. Congressman from New York from 1853 to 1855. Engaged in both the Democratic and Republican parties throughout his career, advocating for various civil rights and legal reforms. Held the position of New York State Secretary of State from 1856 to 1857. Contributed to discussions on key legislative matters during a significant period of American history.

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William Nicholson

English-Australian politician, Premier
Born
February 27th, 1816 209 years ago
Died
1865 160 years ago — 49 years old

Born in England, an influential politician in Australia, served as the 3rd Premier of Victoria from 1883 to 1886. His administration focused on land reform, reflecting significant shifts in governmental policy during that period. Involved in the formation of the Victorian Labor Party and contributed to the establishment of various institutions and infrastructure in the region. His leadership spanned critical economic developments, impacting the colony's growth.

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