What Happened This Year 1865

People Who Died in 1865

Edward Everett

Politician, 15th Governor of Massachusetts
Born
April 11th, 1794 232 years ago
Died
1865 161 years ago — 71 years old

An educator and politician, served as the 15th Governor of Massachusetts from 1853 to 1854. Played a significant role in the establishment of Harvard University, where he was a professor. Contributed to the public discourse on various issues including education and oratory. Delivered a notable speech at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery at Gettysburg, which preceded Abraham Lincoln's famous address. Served as a U.S. Representative and U.S. Senator, and was appointed the U.S. Minister to the United Kingdom, influencing transatlantic relations.

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Christian Jürgensen Thomsen

Danish antiquarian and archaeologist
Born
December 29th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
1865 161 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent Danish antiquarian and archaeologist, contributions included establishing the three-age system of prehistoric culture, which categorized stone, bronze, and iron ages. Served as curator at the National Museum of Denmark, where efforts focused on the collection and classification of archaeological finds. Published significant works that laid the foundation for modern archaeology, influencing subsequent studies and methodologies in the field. Played a crucial role in advancing understanding of prehistoric societies through systematic excavation and analysis of artifacts.

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Clementina Maude

Portrait photographer, Viscountess Hawarden
Born
June 1st, 1822 203 years ago
Died
1865 161 years ago — 43 years old

Born in 1822, a prominent English portrait photographer. Focused on portraits, capturing the likenesses of family, friends, and domestic life. Worked primarily with collodion wet plates, gaining recognition for the quality and emotional depth of the images. Contributed significantly to the early development of photography as an art form in the Victorian era. Exhibited widely and became an influential figure in the photographic community, particularly known for intimate and softly lit images showcasing her subjects.

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Joseph Paxton

Gardener and architect, designed The Crystal Palace
Born
August 3rd, 1803 222 years ago
Died
1865 161 years ago — 62 years old

An English gardener and architect, best known for designing The Crystal Palace, a massive glass and iron structure built for the 1851 Great Exhibition in London. This innovative design showcased the potential of industrial materials and construction techniques. Paxton's background as a gardener informed his approach to integrating natural elements within architectural spaces. His work on The Crystal Palace set a precedent for future architectural projects and influenced the design of similar structures worldwide. Beyond The Crystal Palace, also served as a Member of Parliament, demonstrating a commitment to public service and civic engagement. His contributions have had lasting significance within the fields of architecture and horticulture.

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Silas Soule

American soldier, Sand Creek Massacre whistleblower
Born
July 26th, 1838 187 years ago
Died
1865 161 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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