What Happened This Year 1869

People Who Died in 1869

Juan Almonte

Mexican soldier and diplomat in Empire
Born
May 15th, 1803 221 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1869 155 years ago — 65 years old

Son of José María Morelos, served as a regent in the Second Mexican Empire from 1863 to 1864. Actively participated in military operations and diplomatic efforts during his career. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Mexico during the 19th century. Contributed to various diplomatic missions and worked to promote the interests of the Empire both domestically and internationally.

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Antoine-Henri Jomini

Military theorist and Napoleonic general
Born
March 6th, 1779 246 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1869 155 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1779 in Switzerland, a military officer and theorist contributed significantly to the development of military strategy during the Napoleonic Wars. He served in the French army and was a key figure in the writing of military doctrine. Jomini emphasized the principles of war, notably lines of operations and the role of decisive battles, and his works became foundational texts in military education. After the fall of Napoleon, Jomini held various military roles in the Russian Army and continued to publish influential writings on military strategy until his death in 1869.

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Edward Bates

American politician and lawyer
Born
1793 232 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1869 155 years ago — 76 years old

Served as the Attorney General of the United States under President Abraham Lincoln from 1861 to 1864. Actively participated in the Whig Party before its dissolution and became a prominent figure in the early Republican Party. Represented Missouri in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1841 to 1843 and was appointed a judge in St. Louis. Involved in local legal and political matters throughout his life, with a commitment to public service during one of the most pivotal eras in American history.

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James Harper

American publisher and politician
Born
1795 230 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1869 155 years ago — 74 years old

A publisher and politician served as the 65th Mayor of New York City. Harper was instrumental in founding Harper & Brothers, a major publishing house that became significant in American literature. Under Harper's leadership, the company published works of many well-known authors, including Mark Twain and Emily Dickinson. His tenure as mayor began in 1844 and continued until 1845, focusing on city infrastructure and governance during a period of rapid urban growth. The publishing company he co-founded contributed to advancements in both literature and mass communication in the United States.

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Charles Sturt

Botanist and explorer of Australia
Born
1795 230 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1869 155 years ago — 74 years old

An Indian-English botanist and explorer, contributed significantly to the exploration of Australia. Undertook several expeditions to map the interior, aiming to discover a route to the continent's interior. Notable for the exploration of the Murray and Darling Rivers and the search for an inland sea. Published detailed accounts of travels, enhancing knowledge of Australian geography and flora.

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Hijikata Toshizō

Japanese military commander and rebel leader
Born
May 31st, 1835 189 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1869 155 years ago — 34 years old

Born in 1835, he served as the vice commander of the Shinsengumi during the late Edo period. The Shinsengumi was a special police force formed to protect the Tokugawa shogunate. He played a crucial role in various battles during the Boshin War, which was a civil war between imperial and shogunate forces. Hijikata's leadership helped shape the resistance against the Meiji Restoration, aiming to preserve the samurai way of life. He died in 1869 at the Battle of Hakodate, marking the end of the Shinsengumi.

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John A. Roebling

Civil engineer, designer of Brooklyn Bridge
Born
June 12th, 1806 218 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1869 155 years ago — 63 years old

Born in Germany, pursued engineering and immigrated to the United States. Developed innovative suspension bridge designs that led to significant contributions in civil engineering. Designed the Brooklyn Bridge, which became an iconic symbol of New York City. Oversaw construction until his death in 1869, after which his son completed the project.

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Jan Evangelista Purkyně

Czech anatomist and physiologist
Born
1787 238 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1869 155 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of anatomy and physiology. Developed important cell theory concepts and discovered Purkinje cells in the cerebellum. Conducted pioneering research in the physiology of vision and the anatomy of the nervous system. Published influential works that advanced understanding of muscle structure and function, and contributed to early studies in embryology.

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Richard Dry

Politician, 7th Premier of Tasmania
Born
September 20th, 1815 209 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1869 155 years ago — 53 years old

Served as the 7th Premier of Tasmania from 1866 to 1868. His tenure included significant contributions to the legislative framework of the state. Involved in various policy initiatives during a transformative period in Tasmanian politics. Played a role in the development of infrastructure and education systems within Tasmania. Engaged in many political discussions that shaped the future of the region.

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