What Happened This Year 1871

People Who Died in 1871

Robert Anderson

Union general during the Civil War
Born
1805 221 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1871 154 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.

Continue Reading

Andrea Debono

Maltese trader and explorer
Born
November 7th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
October 29th, 1871 154 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.

Continue Reading

Oscar James Dunn

Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana
Born
1826 200 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1871 154 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.

Continue Reading

Anselme Payen

French chemist and academic
Born
January 6th, 1795 231 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.

Continue Reading

Samuel Joseph May

American abolitionist and reformer
Born
September 12th, 1797 228 years ago
Died
1871 155 years ago — 74 years old

This individual was a prominent abolitionist and reformer in the 19th century, advocating for abolition and women's rights. A member of the American Anti-Slavery Society, contributed extensively to the cause through lectures and writings. Worked alongside notable figures in the abolitionist movement and played a significant role in the Underground Railroad, assisting enslaved people seeking freedom. In addition to antislavery efforts, supported women's suffrage and education, emphasizing equality and civil rights.

Continue Reading

Étienne Constantin de Gerlache

Belgian politician and Prime Minister
Born
December 26th, 1785 240 years ago
Died
1871 155 years ago — 86 years old

Served as the first Prime Minister of Belgium after the country's independence in 1830. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the new government and the functioning of state institutions. Contributed to the development of the constitutional monarchy in Belgium and was involved in the political landscape during a formative period for the nation. Engaged in legal practices prior to entering politics, demonstrating a commitment to the rule of law and governance.

Continue Reading

Willibald Alexis

German author and poet known for prose
Born
June 29th, 1798 227 years ago
Died
1871 155 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.

Continue Reading

Moritz von Schwind

Austrian painter and illustrator
Born
January 21st, 1804 222 years ago
Died
1871 155 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Austria, this painter excelled in the Romantic style, creating numerous works that captured the imagination. Studies in Vienna and further travels influenced his artistic development. Notably, produced illustrations for the German edition of 'The Fairy Tales of the Brothers Grimm.' Additionally, he contributed to the artistic decoration of several significant buildings, including the Vienna Burgtheater. Engagement with historical and mythical themes defined much of the work.

Continue Reading

Philippe-Joseph Aubert de Gaspé

Canadian author and military captain
Born
October 30th, 1786 239 years ago
Died
1871 155 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.

Continue Reading