What Happened This Year 1865

People Who Died in 1865

Silas Soule

American soldier, Sand Creek Massacre whistleblower
Born
July 26th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
1865 160 years ago — 27 years old

Served as a Union soldier during the Civil War. Witnessed the Sand Creek Massacre in 1864 and became a vocal critic of the actions taken by the Colorado militia. Reported the events to higher authorities, emphasizing the brutal treatment of Native Americans. His testimony played a significant role in the investigation of the massacre. Later, Soule's stance against such atrocities led to conflicts within military hierarchies and shaped perceptions of the treatment of Indigenous people in the United States. Soule's actions demonstrated a commitment to truth and accountability amidst widespread violence.

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Isabella Beeton

English author of household management book
Born
March 14th, 1836 189 years ago
Died
1865 160 years ago — 29 years old

An English author and journalist, contributed significantly to domestic literature through the publication of a comprehensive guide on household management. The work became a crucial reference for Victorian households, addressing cooking, budgeting, and domestic efficiency. Began her career in journalism and gained recognition for her domestic advice columns. Despite a short life, her influential book continued to serve as a standard for household management for generations.

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Fredrika Bremer

Writer and feminist author
Born
August 17th, 1801 224 years ago
Died
1865 160 years ago — 64 years old

Contributed significantly to feminist literature in the 19th century. Published novels that addressed women's rights and social issues. Influenced Swedish society with prominent works, while also advocating for suffrage and equality. Bremer traveled throughout Europe, engaging with various reform movements and ideas. Established a legacy as a notable figure in early feminism, paving the way for future generations.

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Samuel Francis Du Pont

American admiral and naval leader
Born
September 27th, 1803 221 years ago
Died
1865 160 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1803, served as an admiral in the United States Navy. Played a crucial role in the Union's naval strategy during the Civil War, particularly in the capture of Port Royal, South Carolina, which was an early and significant success for Union forces. Oversaw the development of naval operations and engineering during the war, contributing to advancements in naval tactics and ship design. Commanded a series of expeditions against Confederate ports and forts, demonstrating strategic military leadership.

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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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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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Benjamin Gompertz

Mathematician and statistician, Gompertz law
Born
March 5th, 1779 246 years ago
Died
1865 160 years ago — 86 years old

A mathematician and statistician contributed significantly to mathematical modeling and statistics. Developed the Gompertz function, a mathematical model that describes human mortality and growth processes. This model is widely used in actuarial science, demography, and biology. Contributed to the study of the relationship between population growth and aging. Worked on various topics within statistics and provided foundational work that influenced future research.

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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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