What Happened This Year 1870

People Who Died in 1870

Alexandre Dumas

French novelist, wrote The Three Musketeers
Born
July 24th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1870 155 years ago — 68 years old

A prolific French writer, contributed significantly to literature during the 19th century. Best remembered for works such as 'The Count of Monte Cristo' and 'The Three Musketeers', which explored themes of justice, adventure, and friendship. Dumas's novels have become classics, widely translated and adapted into various films, television series, and stage plays. His writing style captivated readers and helped popularize the historical novel genre. Dumas faced challenges related to race due to his mixed heritage but continued to produce influential literature that has endured through generations.

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Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer

Spanish poet and playwright of Rima.
Born
February 17th, 1836 189 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1870 155 years ago — 34 years old

A significant figure in Spanish literature, this individual contributed extensively to poetry and drama during the 19th century. Renowned works include the collection 'Rimas', which explores themes of love, nature, and existential reflection. The playwright also penned 'La venta de los gatos', highlighting social issues of the time. His literary style influenced subsequent generations of writers, marking a shift towards modernism in Spanish literature.

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Owen Wynne Jones

Welsh poet and clergyman
Born
March 4th, 1828 197 years ago
Died
1870 155 years ago — 42 years old

Born in Wales, this individual served as a clergyman and contributed significantly to poetry during the Victorian era. His work often reflected themes of nature, spirituality, and Welsh identity. In addition to his clerical duties, he was involved in various literary circles, engaging with contemporary poets and writers. He published several volumes of poetry that resonate with the Welsh landscape and culture, providing insight into the spiritual and emotional landscape of his time.

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John P. Kennedy

American novelist and Whig politician
Born
October 25th, 1795 230 years ago
Died
1870 155 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent figure in the 19th century, this individual served as a Whig politician and was influential in the political scene of the time. He held various political offices including a term in the U.S. House of Representatives. As an author, he penned several novels, with his notable work being 'Swallow Barn', which presented a vivid depiction of rural Virginia life and offered insights into Southern society. The works contributed to the American literary landscape of the era.

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Anthony Mary Claret

Spanish Roman Catholic archbishop and missionary
Born
December 23rd, 1807 218 years ago
Died
1870 155 years ago — 63 years old

Served as a prominent Roman Catholic archbishop and missionary in the 19th century, focusing on evangelization and education. Founded the Claretian Missionaries, a religious congregation dedicated to missionary work. Worked extensively in Cuba and later in Spain, promoting various reforms within the church.

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Robert Cooper Grier

American lawyer and Supreme Court justice
Born
March 5th, 1794 231 years ago
Died
1870 155 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1794, a Supreme Court justice served from 1846 to 1870. Contributed to significant legal decisions during a tumultuous period in U.S. history, including matters related to the abolition of slavery and states' rights. Prior to judicial service, held roles in both state and federal courts, shaping early American jurisprudence. Played a key role in the development of legal precedents that influenced American law well into the future.

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Patrick Gass

Sergeant and author of expedition journal
Born
June 12th, 1771 254 years ago
Died
1870 155 years ago — 99 years old

Served as a sergeant during the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1804 to 1806. Documented the journey through daily journals, providing insight into the exploration of the American West. His writings detailed the encounters with various Native American tribes and the geological and botanical discoveries made along the way. Returned to the East after the expedition and authored a book based on his experiences, contributing to the historical record of westward expansion.

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Imre Frivaldszky

Hungarian botanist and entomologist
Born
February 6th, 1799 226 years ago
Died
1870 155 years ago — 71 years old

A respected figure in the fields of botany and entomology, significant contributions included research on various plant species and insect classifications. Led explorations into Hungary's flora and fauna, enriching scientific understanding of the region's biodiversity. Published several influential studies during the 19th century, establishing groundwork for future researchers in both botanical and entomological disciplines.

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Ignaz Moscheles

Czech pianist and composer
Born
May 23rd, 1794 231 years ago
Died
1870 155 years ago — 76 years old

Born in Prague, a prominent pianist and composer emerged, significantly contributing to the Romantic music era. Studied under notable mentors and became associated with composers such as Beethoven and Mendelssohn. Conducted a successful career in both performance and instruction, fostering the appreciation of piano music and composition.

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