What Happened This Year 1866

People Who Died in 1866

Gustavus Vaughan Brooke

Irish actor with acclaimed performances
Born
1818 207 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1866 159 years ago — 48 years old

An Irish actor, notable for significant contributions to the theatre. Achieved acclaim for performances in roles such as Hamlet and Othello. His career in the mid-19th century included appearances in various prestigious venues across England and Ireland. Gained recognition for his powerful portrayals and dramatic presence on stage, influencing theatrical norms of the period.

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Massimo d'Azeglio

Italian statesman, novelist, and painter
Born
October 24th, 1798 226 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1866 159 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent figure in Italian history, this individual served as the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Sardinia. Influential in the Italian unification process, held key political positions during the mid-19th century. Also authored several novels that depicted life and politics in Italy, gaining recognition as a novelist. Additionally, ventured into painting, contributing to the cultural landscape of the time.

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Thomas Love Peacock

English author and poet, 'Nightmare Abbey'
Born
October 18th, 1785 239 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1866 159 years ago — 80 years old

An English author and poet, contributions to literature included novels and poetry with a focus on satire and social commentary. Works often depicted philosophical themes intertwined with a humorous critique of contemporary society. Notable writings include 'Nightmare Abbey', which satirized the Gothic novel genre, exploring themes of love, despair, and the nature of artistic creativity. Peacock's writing style featured sharp wit and engaging narratives that provided insight into the Romantic era.

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François-Xavier Garneau

Canadian poet and historian
Born
June 15th, 1809 215 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1866 159 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent poet and historian, contributions included a historical narrative of Canada and numerous poems. Wrote 'L'Histoire du Canada', covering Canadian history from the earliest times to 1760. Influenced the development of Canadian literature through poetry and historical writing. Engaged in political and cultural discussions surrounding Canadian identity during the 19th century.

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Alexander Campbell

Minister and theologian, Restoration Movement
Born
1788 237 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1866 159 years ago — 78 years old

An influential Irish-American minister and theologian, contributed significantly to Christian thought and practice through the Restoration Movement. Emphasized the importance of returning to the New Testament as the standard for faith and practice. Established various congregations and promoted unity among Christians regardless of denominational lines. Authored numerous works that advocated for a return to primitive Christianity and emphasized baptism as essential for salvation.

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William Whewell

English historian and philosopher of science
Born
May 24th, 1794 230 years ago
Died
March 6th, 1866 159 years ago — 71 years old

Contributed significantly to the philosophy of science, particularly in terms of the development of scientific terminology and history. Served as a priest and held the position of Master of Trinity College, Cambridge. Developed the concepts of scientific method and the philosophy of classification in the development of scientific disciplines. Authored several influential works including 'The Philosophy of the Inductive Sciences' and 'History of the Inductive Sciences'.

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Maria Amalia of Naples and Sicily

Queen of France
Born
April 26th, 1782 242 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1866 158 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1782, the individual served as Queen consort of France through marriage to King Louis-Philippe I. The reign lasted from 1830 to 1848 amid significant political changes in France. The queen upheld the arts and participated in various charitable initiatives. After the abdication of her husband, she lived in exile, returning to France on occasion before her death in 1866.

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John Keble

English priest and poet known for poetry
Born
1792 233 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1866 158 years ago — 74 years old

An English priest and poet, associated with the Oxford Movement, produced significant theological and devotional poetry. His work, specifically 'The Christian Year', published in 1827, offered a collection of verse for the entire Christian calendar and gained considerable recognition. Keble's influence extended to his role in the development of Anglo-Catholicism within the Church of England. He served as a parish priest for many years, focusing on pastoral care and theological education. His writings emphasized the importance of religious experience and devotion, shaping the spiritual landscape of his time.

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Thomas Hodgkin

British physician and disease researcher
Born
1798 227 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1866 158 years ago — 68 years old

Significant contributions to medicine were made, particularly in the study of blood diseases. Developed the concept of Hodgkin's lymphoma, a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. Also wrote several influential papers on various medical conditions and was involved in the establishment of medical education standards.

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