What Happened This Year 1868

People Who Died in 1868

Julius von Szymanowski

Surgeon and medical innovator
Born
February 10th, 1829 196 years ago
Died
1868 158 years ago — 39 years old

Born in 1829, this individual was a prominent surgeon of Polish-German descent. Following medical education and training, contributions to surgical techniques and practices were significant. The establishment of new methods in surgery advanced the field, particularly in the areas of trauma and wound care. Influential writings on surgical procedures and the management of surgical patients were published, enriching medical literature. The career was marked by dedication to improving surgical outcomes and training future surgeons in modern methodologies.

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Alexander Thomson of Banchory

Scottish jurist and religious activist
Born
June 21st, 1798 227 years ago
Died
1868 158 years ago — 70 years old

Born in Scotland in 1798, this individual contributed significantly to agricultural reforms and the legal field. As a jurist, played a role in shaping local laws that influenced agricultural practices. In addition, engaged in religious activism, advocating for reforms within the church and supporting various social justice causes throughout the region.

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Emanuel Leutze

German-American painter of historical scenes
Born
May 24th, 1816 209 years ago
Died
1868 158 years ago — 52 years old

Born in Germany and later moving to America, created significant works that depicted pivotal moments in American history. Best recognized for the painting 'Washington Crossing the Delaware', which captures George Washington leading his troops during the Revolutionary War. Leutze's work reflects a blend of European artistic traditions and American themes, contributing to the art of the 19th century.

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Mongkut

Thai king and religious reformer
Born
October 18th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
1868 158 years ago — 64 years old

Ruled as king of Thailand from 1851 until 1868. Implemented significant reforms in education and administration. Promoted modernization in Thailand through the establishment of diplomatic relations with Western nations. Advocated for changes in the Buddhist monastic system and reinforced the importance of science and technology in governance. His reign marked the beginning of the Chakri Dynasty's modernization efforts.

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George Bliss

American politician and legislator
Born
January 1st, 1813 213 years ago
Died
1868 158 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1813, a prominent American politician served in various capacities throughout his career. Held the position of the first United States Assistant Postmaster General from 1861 to 1865, overseeing significant postal system changes during the Civil War. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing New York from 1853 to 1855. Active in local politics as a member of the New York State Assembly and served as the 12th Mayor of Buffalo, New York. Engaged in public service with a focus on infrastructure development and postal reforms.

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Alexander Mitchell

Engineer and inventor of screw-pile lighthouse
Born
April 13th, 1780 245 years ago
Died
1868 158 years ago — 88 years old

An Irish engineer specialized in marine engineering and innovation in lighthouse design. Developed the screw-pile foundation method for constructing lighthouses in unstable marine environments. Designed the first screw-pile lighthouse, the Maplin Sands Lighthouse, successfully using this technique. Made significant contributions to lighthouse technology, enabling safer navigation along hazardous coastlines. Impacted coastal engineering practices through innovative designs.

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Harriet Sutherland-Leveson-Gower

Duchess of Sutherland, social reformer
Born
May 21st, 1806 219 years ago
Died
1868 158 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1806, the Duchess of Sutherland played a prominent role in social reform in 19th-century England. As a member of the aristocracy, she advocated for various causes, including education and poverty alleviation. The duchess became involved in significant public initiatives, particularly in the field of education, supporting the establishment of schools and libraries. She was a key figure in the philanthropic movement, contributing to the welfare of the poor and endorsing women's rights. Her influence extended into the political landscape as she utilized her position to champion reforms aimed at improving societal conditions.

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