What Happened This Year 1866

People Who Died in 1866

Jean Baptiste Charbonneau

Explorer of the American West and Louisiana
Born
February 11th, 1805 220 years ago
Died
1866 159 years ago — 61 years old

Born to a Shoshone mother and a French Canadian father, Charbonneau was brought up in the North American wilderness. He accompanied the Lewis and Clark Expedition as a guide and interpreter in 1804-1806, contributing valuable knowledge about the land and the indigenous peoples. After the expedition, he served as a fur trader and explored various parts of the West. Charbonneau later played a role in the Oregon Trail migration and helped settlers navigate to the Pacific Northwest.

Continue Reading

Menachem Mendel Schneersohn

Polish Rabbi and Chabad Rebbe
Born
September 9th, 1789 236 years ago
Died
1866 159 years ago — 77 years old

Born in Poland in 1789, a prominent rabbi and leader of the Chabad movement emerged as a significant figure in Jewish life. He expanded the teachings of Chabad Hasidism, emphasizing spiritual leadership and engagement with the secular community. His works include numerous writings on Jewish law and philosophy, which continue to influence followers. His leadership spanned a turbulent period, including the upheaval of the Napoleonic Wars and subsequent socio-political changes in Europe. He relocated to present-day Belarus, where he established a robust educational and religious framework that attracted many followers. His teachings focused on the inner dimensions of Judaism, making complex ideas accessible to a wider audience.

Continue Reading

Paul Gavarni

French illustrator and caricaturist
Born
January 13th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
1866 159 years ago — 62 years old

An influential French illustrator, Gavarni made significant contributions to the world of caricature and illustration during the 19th century. His works often depicted Parisian life and society, showcasing his keen eye for detail and understanding of human character. Gavarni's illustrations appeared in several magazines, and he became a prominent figure in the realm of graphic art. His ability to blend humor with social commentary set him apart from his contemporaries. Gavarni also produced a series of lithographs that captured the essence of various social classes in Paris, highlighting both the struggles and the charm of urban life at the time. His talent led to collaborations with various literary figures and magazines, securing his legacy in the fields of illustration and caricature.

Continue Reading

William Gamble

American Civil War General
Born
January 1st, 1818 207 years ago
Died
1866 159 years ago — 48 years old

Born in Ireland, Gamble migrated to the United States in the early 19th century. He attended West Point and graduated in 1840. Gamble served in the Mexican-American War and later held various positions in the U.S. Army. During the Civil War, he rose to prominence as a Union general, participating in several key battles, including the Battle of Gettysburg. Gamble commanded a brigade, demonstrating military leadership that contributed to Union efforts.

Continue Reading