What Happened This Year 1873

People Who Died in 1873

Francis Garnier

French captain and explorer of Asia
Born
July 25th, 1839 185 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1873 151 years ago — 34 years old

Born in 1839, a French captain and explorer, undertook significant exploratory missions in Southeast Asia. Led expeditions along the Mekong River, documenting geography and indigenous cultures. Participated in military actions in the Second French Empire's colonial campaigns. Contributed to cartography and geographic knowledge of the region, providing valuable insights during a period of colonial expansion. Met his end in 1873 during a military engagement in Tonkin, leaving a legacy as a prominent figure in French exploration.

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Johns Hopkins

Philanthropist, Founder of Johns Hopkins University
Born
May 19th, 1795 229 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1873 151 years ago — 78 years old

A businessman and philanthropist established a university and hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. After amassing significant wealth through the wholesale mercantile business, dedicated a substantial portion of the fortune to charitable causes. The university, founded in 1876, became the first in the United States to implement a graduate school. Also contributed to the establishment of the Johns Hopkins Hospital, recognized as a pioneer in medical education and research.

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Edward Blyth

English zoologist and naturalist
Born
December 23rd, 1810 214 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 63 years old

Specialized in zoology and contributed to the field through research and writings. Worked at the Zoological Society of London and made significant contributions to the understanding of species in the Indian subcontinent. Published extensively on various topics, particularly in relation to ornithology and entomology. Advocated for the theory of natural selection, influencing later developments in biological sciences.

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Wolfgang Menzel

German poet and literary critic
Born
June 26th, 1798 226 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1798, this figure contributed to the German literary scene as a poet and critic. Menzel played a significant role in the literary movements of his time, engaging with the works of contemporary authors and fostering discussions on literature. His criticism often focused on German Romanticism, as he sought to promote national literature. Menzel worked on various publications, nurturing the appreciation of literature within German-speaking communities. He also wrote essays and critiques, helping to shape literary tastes and preferences during the 19th century.

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Alexander Keith

Brewer and Mayor of Halifax
Born
October 5th, 1795 229 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 78 years old

A Scottish-Canadian brewer and politician served as the 13th Mayor of Halifax. Established a successful brewery that became widely recognized in the region. Advocated for the growth of the local economy and the development of Halifax as a key urban center. His contributions extended beyond brewing, engaging actively in civic matters that shaped the community.

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Georg Amadeus Carl Friedrich Naumann

Mineralogist and geologist; studied minerals
Born
May 30th, 1797 227 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 76 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of mineralogy and geology. Developed comprehensive classifications of minerals based on crystal systems and physical properties. Published works on geological surveys in various regions of Germany, providing foundational insights into the geology of Saxony. Engaged in numerous expeditions to study rock formations and mineral deposits, thereby enhancing understanding of geological structures.

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Sarah Moore Grimké

American author and abolitionist
Born
November 26th, 1792 232 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 81 years old

An American author and abolitionist, played a significant role in the early women’s rights movement and the abolitionist cause. Contributed to anti-slavery literature through writings and speeches, advocating for the emancipation of enslaved people. Collaborated with her sister, Angelina Grimké, in efforts to promote social justice and equality. Published works include 'Letters on the Equality of the Sexes and the Condition of Woman', which argued for women's rights and education.

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William Holmes McGuffey

American author of McGuffey Readers
Born
September 23rd, 1800 224 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 73 years old

An American author and academic, McGuffey played a significant role in the education sector during the 19th century. He developed the McGuffey Readers, a series of educational textbooks, which became widely adopted in schools across the United States. These readers were instrumental in teaching literacy and moral values to generations of American children. As a professor and later president of a college, McGuffey contributed to higher education as well. His works reflected the educational philosophies of his time and helped standardize reading materials.

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Fyodor Tyutchev

Russian poet and diplomat
Born
December 5th, 1803 221 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent Russian poet and diplomat, contributed significantly to 19th-century literature. Tyutchev served in various diplomatic roles, including positions in Germany and Italy, while also writing poetry that explored themes of nature, existence, and Russian identity. His works reflect the philosophical and political currents of his time. Often associated with the Russian literary elite, Tyutchev's poetry was characterized by its emotional depth and complex imagery, resonating with the introspective essence of the Romantic movement. His influence extended beyond poetry, linking literary expression with national consciousness in Russia.

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