What Happened This Year 1870

People Who Died in 1870

Ma Xinyi

Chinese general and politician
Born
1821 204 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1870 154 years ago — 49 years old

A Chinese general and politician served as Viceroy of Liangjiang. Positioned in a crucial administrative role during the late Qing Dynasty, played significant part in military campaigns against Taiping forces. Managed the administration of the Liangjiang province, focusing on regional governance and military oversight. His strategies contributed to maintaining stability in the region during a tumultuous period in Chinese history.

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Eleanora Atherton

English philanthropist and social reformer
Born
February 14th, 1782 243 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1870 154 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1782, a notable philanthropist focused on improving the lives of the poor and advocating for social reform. Involved in various charitable endeavors, she established several institutions aimed at providing education and support to those in need. Committed to women's rights, she worked alongside contemporaries to promote access to education for girls. Her efforts contributed significantly to the development of social welfare programs in England during the early 19th century.

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Fitz Hugh Ludlow

American journalist and author, The Hasheesh Eater
Born
September 11th, 1836 188 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1870 154 years ago — 34 years old

A journalist, author, and explorer, created a significant narrative on the experiences of drug use in 19th-century America. Wrote the book 'The Hasheesh Eater', which detailed the exploration of hashish and its effects. Contributed articles to prominent publications, including the New York Tribune and Harper's Weekly. Engaged in various explorations, often focusing on the American West and its cultures.

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Prosper Mérimée

French historian and author of Carmen
Born
September 28th, 1803 221 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1870 154 years ago — 66 years old

An archaeologist and historian, this individual contributed significantly to the fields of archaeology and literature. Active during the 19th century, they served as the inspector-general of historical monuments in France. The work 'Carmen' served as a basis for Bizet's famous opera of the same name. Contributions to French literature also included several short stories and historical works, which reflected interest in the cultural and historical dimensions of society.

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Robert E. Lee

Confederate general during Civil War
Born
January 19th, 1807 218 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1870 154 years ago — 63 years old

A military leader served as a general in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. Graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point, displayed strategic military prowess during several key battles. Commanded the Army of Northern Virginia, achieving notable victories at the Second Battle of Bull Run and the Battle of Chancellorsville. After the war, focused on rebuilding the South and served as president of Washington College, now known as Washington and Lee University.

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Michael William Balfe

Irish composer of opera 'The Bohemian Girl'
Born
May 15th, 1808 216 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1870 154 years ago — 62 years old

An Irish composer and conductor contributed significantly to the world of opera during the 19th century. Established a successful career in London, where numerous works premiered. Most notable composition is 'The Bohemian Girl', first performed in 1843 at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. Also composed other operas, including 'The Daughter of the Regiment' and 'The Crusaders'. Served as the conductor at various theaters and was deeply involved in the musical scene of his time. His works were characterized by melodic complexity and lyrical richness, earning popularity among audiences.

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Karel Jaromír Erben

Czech historian and poet
Born
1811 214 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1870 154 years ago — 59 years old

Contributed significantly to Czech literature and history through poetry and folklore collection. Authored the famous collection of ballads titled 'Kytice' (Bouquet), which remains a cornerstone of Czech literary heritage. Worked as a historian, focusing on Czech cultural history, and served as a librarian at the National Museum in Prague. Engaged in the preservation of Czech folklore.

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Comte de Lautréamont

Uruguayan-French poet and educator
Born
April 4th, 1846 178 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1870 154 years ago — 24 years old

Born in Uruguay and later settling in France, a prominent figure in the literary movement known as Symbolism emerged in the late 19th century. This poet is primarily recognized for a notable work, 'Les Chants de Maldoror', published in the 1860s, which gained critical acclaim for its avant-garde style and themes. An educator by training, the contributions to literature also underscored the use of vivid imagery and personal expression. The work has influenced various literary movements, including Surrealism. Despite limited recognition during his lifetime, the writing underwent significant reinterpretation and garnered attention in the 20th century.

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Frédéric Bazille

French painter and Impressionist artist
Born
December 6th, 1841 183 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1870 154 years ago — 28 years old

A French painter associated with the Impressionist movement, recognized for an influential approach to light and color in landscapes and group scenes. Studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and befriended other prominent artists like Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. Followed his passion for painting alongside military service during the Franco-Prussian War. His works feature a unique blend of realism and impressionism. Died at a young age during the war, leaving behind a legacy that influenced future generations of artists.

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