What Happened This Year 1871

People Who Died in 1871

Robert Anderson

Union general during the Civil War
Born
1805 220 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1871 153 years ago — 66 years old

Served as a Union general during the American Civil War. Commanded Union forces at Fort Sumter, where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. His decision to surrender the fort triggered the conflict between the North and South. After the battle, served in various commands throughout the war and played a role in the defense of several key positions. After the Civil War, served in various military capacities until retirement.

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Andrea Debono

Maltese trader and explorer
Born
November 7th, 1821 203 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1871 153 years ago — 49 years old

Born in 1821, a Maltese trader and explorer embarked on significant trading expeditions in the Mediterranean and beyond. Engaged in various trading ventures, established trade routes that connected Malta to various ports. Active in exploratory missions that contributed to knowledge about different cultures and economies. Debono's efforts in navigation and trade expanded Malta's economic presence during the 19th century.

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Oscar James Dunn

Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana
Born
1826 199 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1871 153 years ago — 45 years old

Served as the Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana from 1868 until 1871, becoming one of the first African Americans to hold statewide office in the U.S. Engaged in efforts to promote civil rights and improve the lives of African Americans in the post-Civil War South. Oversaw various initiatives aimed at education and public health during his tenure. His political career occurred during a transformative period in American history, marked by significant social and political changes.

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Anselme Payen

French chemist and academic
Born
January 6th, 1795 230 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1878 147 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed to the field of chemistry by discovering the enzyme diastase, an important catalyst in the breakdown of starch into sugars. Served as a professor at the Collège de France and published numerous scientific articles. Participated in the establishment of the Société Chimique de France, promoting chemical research in France.

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Willibald Alexis

German author and poet known for prose
Born
June 29th, 1798 227 years ago
Died
1871 154 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1798, this individual was a prominent German author and poet during the 19th century. He contributed significantly to German literature, producing an array of novels and poems. His works often explored themes of historical significance and German identity. He was part of the literary movement that emphasized romanticism and the importance of folklore in writing. His writings captivated audiences with their rich narrative style and historical depth.

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Philippe-Joseph Aubert de Gaspé

Canadian author and military captain
Born
October 30th, 1786 238 years ago
Died
1871 154 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1786, this individual served as a military captain and became a significant figure in Canadian literature. His most notable work, 'Les Anciens Canadiens', published in 1863, provides a vivid depiction of Canadian life in the 17th and 18th centuries, highlighting the experiences of French Canadians during a time of transformation. This work played a crucial role in the preservation of French Canadian culture and history. Throughout life, he balanced military responsibilities with his literary pursuits, contributing to the cultural landscape of Canada during his era.

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Charlotte Elliott

English hymn writer and poet
Born
March 18th, 1789 236 years ago
Died
1871 154 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1789, an English poet and hymn writer contributed significantly to Christian literature. Elliott authored the well-known hymn 'Just as I Am,' which remains popular in worship services. In addition to hymn writing, served as an editor for various collections of hymns, enhancing the accessibility and reach of religious music. Her work often reflected personal experiences and theological insights, resonating with many across generations. Elliott also engaged in editing and publishing to promote other writers and hymnodists.

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Louise of the Netherlands

Queen of the Netherlands, regent role
Born
August 5th, 1828 196 years ago
Died
1871 154 years ago — 43 years old

Born in 1828, a significant figure in Dutch royal history, served as queen consort of the Netherlands. After the death of King William II in 1849, assumed the role of regent for her son, the future King William III. Managed affairs of state during a tumultuous period, contributing to the stability of the monarchy. Actively engaged in social issues, including education and welfare initiatives, which shaped the welfare state in the Netherlands. Her leadership during her husband's reign solidified the monarchy's position in Dutch society.

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Alexander Afanasyev

Russian ethnographer and author of folklore
Born
July 11th, 1826 199 years ago
Died
1871 154 years ago — 45 years old

An ethnographer and author, contributed significantly to the study and preservation of Russian folklore. Collected and published a series of fairy tales, which included 'Russian Fairy Tales' and 'Panish Tales,' helping to document traditional stories and cultural heritage. Focused on the oral traditions of the Russian people and aimed to preserve their tales in written form. Influenced the study of folklore and inspired future generations of folklorists and writers.

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