What Happened This Year 1870

People Who Died in 1870

Alexander Herzen

Russian philosopher and author of 'My Past and Thoughts'
Born
April 6th, 1812 212 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1870 155 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent Russian philosopher and author, contributed significantly to the intellectual discourse of the 19th century. Advocated for social reforms during a time of political repression in Russia. Authored 'My Past and Thoughts', a seminal work reflecting on personal experiences and political ideas. Emigrated to France and became involved with Russian revolutionary movements, gaining a reputation as a leading voice for reform and modernization in Russia. Established the publishing house 'Kolokol' (The Bell), which circulated revolutionary ideas among Russians.

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Leopold II

Grand Duke of Tuscany
Born
October 3rd, 1797 227 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1870 155 years ago — 72 years old

Held the title of Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1824 until 1859. Oversaw significant economic and agricultural developments in the region. Engaged in various cultural and infrastructural initiatives. His reign included efforts towards modernization and addressing social issues of the time.

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Cilibi Moise

Journalist and Author from Moldova
Born
1812 213 years ago
Died
January 31st, 1870 155 years ago — 58 years old

Contributed significantly to Moldavian and Romanian journalism during the 19th century. Engaged in writing articles that addressed social and political issues of the time, promoting literary and cultural advancements. Authored works that explored themes of nationalism, identity, and societal reform. Played a role in the development of modern Romanian literature through innovative storytelling and critical thinking.

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St. John Richardson Liddell

American general in the Civil War
Born
September 6th, 1815 209 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1870 155 years ago — 54 years old

Served as a Confederate general during the American Civil War. Participated in significant battles including the Battle of Shiloh and the Siege of Vicksburg. Took command of a brigade and later a division, showcasing leadership in various military engagements. Post-war, engaged in a career as a planter in Louisiana.

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Henrik Hertz

Danish poet and playwright
Born
1797 228 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1870 155 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in Danish literature, contributed greatly to the poetic and theatrical landscape of the 19th century. Authored numerous plays and poems, many of which were inspired by legendary figures and folklore. Worked to enhance the Danish language and culture through literary contributions. Most recognized for the drama 'Kong Renés Datter' (King René's Daughter), which reflects themes of love and conflict. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of national romanticism in Denmark.

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Moshoeshoe I

King of Lesotho and founder of the nation
Born
1786 239 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1870 155 years ago — 84 years old

Founded the Basotho nation in the early 19th century by uniting various groups in present-day Lesotho. Established a centralized kingdom and sought to protect his people from colonial expansion. Developed strong diplomatic relations with neighboring territories and European powers. Played a crucial role in the cultural and political identity of the Basotho.

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George Henry Thomas

Union General in the American Civil War
Born
July 31st, 1816 208 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1870 154 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent Union general during the American Civil War, played a crucial role in several significant battles. Graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1840 and initially served in the Mexican-American War. Commanded Union forces at the Battle of Chickamauga and the Battle of Nashville, where decisive victories were achieved against Confederate troops. Earned the nickname 'Rock of Chickamauga' for steadfastness during the Battle of Chickamauga. After the war, served in various military roles, including overseeing the Department of the Cumberland.

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Heinrich Gustav Magnus

German chemist and physicist
Born
May 2nd, 1802 222 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1870 154 years ago — 67 years old

An influential chemist and physicist in the 19th century, contributions spanned various scientific fields, particularly thermodynamics and gas behavior. Developed Magnus' effect, which describes the phenomenon of pressure differences due to a rotating body in a fluid. His research provided foundational insights into the thermodynamic properties of gases and liquids, contributing to advancements in physical chemistry. Held a professorship at the University of Berlin, influencing a generation of scientists through teaching and research. Authored significant papers and textbooks that deepened the understanding of physical sciences during his era.

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Charles Auguste de Bériot

Violinist and composer of concertos
Born
February 20th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1870 154 years ago — 68 years old

A Belgian violinist and composer, this individual significantly contributed to the development of violin playing techniques in the 19th century. Focused primarily on the violin, composed numerous concertos and works for violin and orchestra. Established a renowned teaching career, influencing many violinists through his pedagogy. The individual played a crucial role in the romantic era of music, being one of the first to emphasize the expressive capabilities of the violin.

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