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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José Antonio Páez

Venezuelan general and president
Born
June 13th, 1790 234 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent figure in Venezuelan history, this individual served as a general during the Venezuelan War of Independence and later became the first President of Venezuela. His leadership in the military campaigns against Spanish rule positioned him as a key player in the establishment of the Venezuelan republic. After independence, served multiple terms as president from 1830 to 1835 and again from 1839 to 1843, overseeing significant political developments. His tenure was marked by efforts to stabilize the country post-independence amidst various political challenges.

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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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Francis Ronalds

Inventor of the electric telegraph
Born
February 21st, 1788 237 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1788, a British scientist and engineer developed the first working electric telegraph. This invention laid foundational groundwork for modern communication technologies. The electric telegraph utilized electrical signals to transmit messages over distances, revolutionizing how information was shared. In recognition of significant contributions to technology and communication, received a knighthood. Ronalds engaged in various electrical experiments throughout his career, emphasizing the importance of electricity in practical applications.

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Salmon P. Chase

Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court
Born
January 13th, 1808 217 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the 6th Chief Justice of the United States from 1864 to 1873. Pursued a career in law and became an influential political figure during the American Civil War. Held the position of U.S. Secretary of the Treasury under President Abraham Lincoln. Was a key architect of the National Banking System and introduced the first paper currency in the United States. Also played a vital role in political developments related to finance and civil rights during his tenure.

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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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Caroline Augusta of Bavaria

German princess and queen consort
Born
February 8th, 1792 233 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1792, this individual became queen consort of Bavaria after marrying King Ludwig I. She played a significant role in the cultural life of Bavaria, promoting the arts and architecture. Her influence extended into the realm of education, where she supported initiatives in schools. The queen was involved in various charitable endeavors, focusing on the welfare of the poor and sick. Her legacy includes contributions to the development of the Munich Residenz and other civic structures.

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Paweł Edmund Strzelecki

Polish geologist and explorer of Australia
Born
June 24th, 1797 227 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1797, a Polish geologist and explorer conducted significant geological surveys in Australia during the 1830s. Recognized for identifying the highest peak in Australia, which was later named Mount Kosciuszko in honor of a Polish hero. Strzelecki also contributed to the scientific understanding of Australian flora and fauna, taking extensive notes and collecting specimens during explorations. His work resulted in valuable geological maps and reports that advanced knowledge of Australia's natural resources. Returned to Europe, where continued scientific pursuits included further geological studies in places like Tasmania and New Zealand.

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