What Happened This Year 1866

Born in 1866

Charles Nicolle

French biologist, Nobel Prize winner
Born
September 21st, 1866 158 years ago
Died
February 28th, 1936 89 years ago — 69 years old

A French biologist and academic contributed significantly to the understanding of disease transmission. In 1928, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for discoveries related to typhus fever and the role of lice as vectors of disease. His research laid the groundwork for advances in public health and preventive medicine. Beyond the Nobel Prize, served as a director of the Pasteur Institute in Tunis, where important work on infectious diseases was conducted. Published over 200 papers and continued to influence the field of microbiology until death in 1936.

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H. G. Wells

Science Fiction Writer, The Time Machine
Born
September 21st, 1866 158 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1946 78 years ago — 79 years old

An English novelist, historian, and critic contributed significantly to the science fiction genre. Published the seminal works 'The Time Machine' and 'The War of the Worlds', which explored themes of technology, future societies, and alien invasions. Engaged with social and political issues through literature, reflecting on the implications of scientific advancements. Additionally wrote historical works and essays commenting on societal trends and philosophies.

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Thomas Hunt Morgan

American geneticist and Nobel laureate
Born
September 25th, 1866 158 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1945 79 years ago — 79 years old

A geneticist and biologist, he contributed significantly to the understanding of inheritance and gene linkage through work with the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. Morgan's experiments established the chromosomal theory of inheritance, demonstrating that genes are located on chromosomes. For these contributions, he received the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1933. His research laid the foundation for modern genetics, influencing future studies in heredity and gene mapping. He also taught at several institutions, including Columbia University, where he furthered the study of genetics.

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Eurosia Fabris

Italian saint and spiritual leader
Born
September 27th, 1866 158 years ago
Died
1932 93 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1866, dedicated life to teaching and spiritual guidance, emphasizing prayer and community service. Established a congregation focused on education and care for the needy. Fabris cultivated a deep sense of faith among her followers, inspiring many through her devout lifestyle. Canonized as a saint in 2009, recognized for unwavering commitment to her religious mission.

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Mykhailo Hrushevskyi

Ukrainian historian and politician
Born
September 29th, 1866 158 years ago
Died
1934 91 years ago — 68 years old

A significant figure in Ukraine's history, focused on Ukrainian nationalism and the development of Ukrainian historiography. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Ukrainian National Republic in the early 20th century. Contributed extensively to the understanding of Ukrainian culture and identity through various writings and lectures. Respected as a prominent intellectual in the Ukrainian national movement, advocating for political and social reforms.

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Swami Abhedananda

Indian mystic and philosopher
Born
October 2nd, 1866 158 years ago
Died
1939 86 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in the Indian renaissance, this mystic and philosopher played a significant role in promoting Vedanta philosophy. He was a disciple of the famous guru Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. He founded the Abhedananda Ashram in the United States and engaged in extensive lecturing about spirituality and self-realization. He incorporated teachings from various religious texts, focusing on the practical aspects of spirituality, and sought to bridge the wisdom of Eastern thought with Western understanding.

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Josephine Sabel

American singer and comedian
Born
October 3rd, 1866 158 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1945 79 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1866, this individual became a significant figure in American entertainment. Achieving popularity as a singer and comedian, performances blended humor with musical talent. This person frequently appeared on stage during the vaudeville era, captivating audiences with engaging acts and memorable songs. Known for vibrant performances, this individual played a key role in shaping early American entertainment culture.

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Ramsay MacDonald

Scottish Prime Minister, Labour Party Leader
Born
October 12th, 1866 158 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1937 87 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent political figure, served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom in two distinct terms, the first from 1924 and the second from 1929 to 1935. MacDonald was a founding member and leader of the Labour Party. He played a pivotal role in the formation of the first Labour government in 1924, advocating for social reforms and labor rights. He faced challenges during the Great Depression, navigating economic difficulties and political unrest. His leadership style often led to tensions within his party. MacDonald’s political journey began as a journalist and he became a Member of Parliament, representing various constituencies over his career. His tenure as Prime Minister was marked by significant events in British history, including economic dislocation and the rise of new political movements.

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Georg Schumann

German composer and conductor
Born
October 25th, 1866 158 years ago
Died
1952 73 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1866, a significant figure in the music scene, particularly in Berlin. Schumann engaged in composing a variety of works, including orchestral, chamber, and vocal music. He was deeply connected to the music education community, serving as a teacher and contributing to music organizations. During his career, he championed the works of contemporary composers and played a role in the promotion of new music.

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