What Happened This Year 1874

Historical Events from This Year 1874 (View all 19)

Politics & Government

Pangkor Treaty Enacted Between British and Perak Sultan

January 20th, 1874 151 years ago

The Treaty of Pangkor was signed between British officials and Sultan Abdullah of Perak, establishing British authority in the region. This treaty emerged after conflicts in Perak and aimed at stabilizing British interests as well as providing a platform for governance. The treaty allowed British advisors to be placed in key positions within the Sultanate, marking the beginning of more structured colonial rule in Malaya. It was a significant step in British colonial expansion.

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Arts & Culture

Boris Godunov Premieres at Mariinsky Theatre

January 27th, 1874 151 years ago

Modest Mussorgsky's opera 'Boris Godunov' premiered at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, marking a significant moment in Russian opera. The work, which revolves around the complex political landscape of 16th-century Russia, was first performed on this date, showcasing Mussorgsky's innovative compositional style and rich use of Russian folk elements. The opera was based on Alexander Pushkin's play of the same name, and its premiere was attended by many notable figures in Russian culture. The success of 'Boris Godunov' established Mussorgsky as a leading figure in Russian music.

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Arts & Culture

Oakland Daily Tribune's First Edition Released

February 21st, 1874 151 years ago

The Oakland Daily Tribune began its publication in Oakland, California, marking its inaugural issue. Founded by the influential local figure, H. A. Houghton, the newspaper aimed to provide the community with regular news coverage and foster local discourse. The Tribune quickly sought to establish itself in the competitive media landscape of the time, focusing on a mix of local and national news stories. This debut was significant as it introduced a new voice in journalism to the bustling Northern California city.

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Politics & Government

Recognition of French Sovereignty in Cochinchina

March 15th, 1874 151 years ago

France and Vietnam signed the Second Treaty of Saigon, which solidified French control over Cochinchina. This treaty was a follow-up to the First Treaty of Saigon, which established earlier frameworks for French colonization. The agreement recognized France's full sovereignty in southern Vietnam, highlighting the geopolitical interests in Southeast Asia during that era. Negotiated amidst tensions, the treaty facilitated economic and political integration of Cochinchina into the French colonial empire.

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Politics & Government

Hawaiian Kingdom and U.S. Trade Treaty Signed

March 18th, 1874 151 years ago

The Kingdom of Hawaii signed a treaty with the United States, which granted exclusive trading rights to American merchants. This significant agreement was designed to boost Hawaii's economy and solidify U.S. presence in the region. The treaty was signed in Honolulu and reflected ongoing interests in expanding trade relationships while also securing favorable terms for Hawaii amidst increasing foreign influence in the Pacific.

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Natural Disasters

Catastrophic Mill River Flood in Massachusetts

May 16th, 1874 150 years ago

A significant flood occurred on the Mill River in Massachusetts, causing extensive damage to the villages of Williamsburg, Haydenville, Leeds, and western Northampton. The flood was triggered by the failure of the dam at the Williams River, which unleashed a torrent of water, destroying homes and essential infrastructure. The disaster resulted in the tragic loss of 139 lives and left many others injured or displaced. Rescue and recovery efforts were initiated immediately, with local citizens and outside help coming together to aid those affected by the devastation.

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Born in 1874 (View all 174)

Winston Churchill

British Prime Minister and Nobel laureate
Born
November 10th, 1871 153 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1965 60 years ago — 93 years old

A prominent English statesman and soldier, served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during critical periods, particularly during World War II. Played a vital role in the Allied victory against Axis powers, leading efforts to rally and mobilize British forces and citizens. Authored numerous works, including historical texts and memoirs, earning the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1953 for his overall writings. His speeches and radio broadcasts helped inspire resilience during wartime.

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Frank Knox

American politician and Secretary of the Navy
Born
January 1st, 1874 151 years ago
Died
April 28th, 1944 81 years ago — 70 years old

A publisher and politician, served as the 46th United States Secretary of the Navy from 1940 to 1944. Played a significant role in the expansion of the Navy during World War II, overseeing wartime production and logistics. Prior to this role, held a position as a prominent publisher and served as the Assistant Secretary of the Navy. Advocated for naval readiness and modernization, contributing to the strengthening of United States maritime forces.

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Gustave Whitehead

Pioneer aviator and aircraft engineer
Born
January 1st, 1874 151 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1927 97 years ago — 53 years old

Pioneered early aviation with innovative aircraft designs. Developed and demonstrated powered flight in 1901, ahead of the Wright brothers' first flight. Established the Whitehead Aircraft Company and contributed to the advancement of aeronautics through various experiments and designs. Advocated for the potential of aviation technology.

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Josef Suk

Czech violinist and composer
Born
January 4th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1935 89 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1874, this violinist and composer studied under Antonín Dvořák and became associated with the Czech nationalist movement. His works include symphonic poems, chamber music, and several violin concertos. The Violin Concerto in A minor remains one of his most significant compositions. Additionally, he contributed to the Czech cultural landscape through both performance and composition, and served as a teacher, influencing future generations of musicians.

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Joseph Erlanger

American physiologist, Nobel laureate
Born
January 5th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1965 59 years ago — 91 years old

Born in 1874, a prominent physiologist contributed significantly to the understanding of nerve physiology. Collaborated with a colleague in groundbreaking research that unveiled the mechanisms of nerve conduction, leading to important advancements in the field of physiology. This work earned them the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1944, recognizing the importance of their scientific contributions to medical science. In addition to research, held academic positions and played a role in advancing education in physiology.

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Fred Niblo

Film director of 'The Mark of Zorro'
Born
January 6th, 1874 151 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 74 years old

An influential figure in early cinema, this individual started a professional career in theater before transitioning to directing silent films. The work 'The Mark of Zorro' in 1920 garnered significant attention and established a template for later swashbuckler films. In addition to directing, also produced and contributed to screenplays, shaping the narrative style of the time. Contributions to the film industry in the early 20th century laid groundwork for future filmmakers.

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People Who Died in 1874 (View all 39)

Pavel Kiselyov

Russian general and politician
Born
January 19th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1872 152 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1788, a prominent general and politician in Russia, contributed to military reforms and served in various key administrative roles. Played a significant part in the governance of several provinces and held influential positions in the military and government. A noted advocate for the establishment of local self-government in the Russian Empire, also participated in the Decembrist movement, which aimed to modernize the state structure. Cited for efforts in military policy and governance that aimed at strengthening state authority.

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Thomas Gregson

English-Australian politician and lawyer
Born
February 7th, 1796 229 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1874 151 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the second Premier of Tasmania. Played a significant role in the early administration of the colony. Contributed to the establishment of legislative frameworks and governance structures during a pivotal time in Tasmania's development. His leadership helped shape the political landscape and addressed various issues concerning the colony's growth and prosperity.

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Charles Étienne Brasseur de Bourbourg

Historian and archaeologist, Mayan studies
Born
September 8th, 1814 210 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1874 151 years ago — 59 years old

Contributed significantly to the study of Mayan civilization and culture. Conducted extensive research in Central America and published works that advanced the understanding of Indigenous history. Participated in archaeological excavations and collected artifacts that provided insights into Mayan society and rituals. His major publication, 'Histoire des Nations Civilisées du Mexique et de l'Amérique Centrale', focused on the history and culture of the region's ancient civilizations.

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Johann Philipp Reis

German physicist who invented the Reis telephone
Born
January 7th, 1834 191 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1874 151 years ago — 40 years old

Contributed to the field of telecommunications through the invention of an early version of the telephone. Developed the Reis telephone in 1860, which utilized electromagnetic acoustic principles to transmit sound over wires. Worked as a physicist and held academic positions, emphasizing the importance of electrical engineering and acoustics. Engaged in various experiments that paved the way for future advancements in communication technologies.

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August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben

German poet and scholar, created national anthem
Born
April 2nd, 1798 227 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1874 151 years ago — 75 years old

A poet and scholar from Germany, contributed significantly to the German literary landscape in the 19th century. Best recognized for the creation of the lyrics to the German national anthem, 'Das Lied der Deutschen'. Engaged in scholarly pursuits related to the German language and folk literature, Hoffmann von Fallersleben collected and published numerous folk songs. His works often explored themes of nationalism and cultural identity, reflecting the political atmosphere of his time. In addition to poetry, he wrote essays and critiques aimed at promoting the appreciation of German culture and heritage. His contributions remain a part of Germany's cultural history.

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Jules Michelet

Historian and philosopher of France
Born
August 21st, 1798 226 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1874 151 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent French historian and philosopher, contributed significantly to the field of history with a particular focus on the French Revolution. Held a professorship at the Collège de France and published a multi-volume work titled 'Histoire de France', which offered a narrative of France's past through a romantic lens. Engaged in various philosophical discussions regarding history and the human experience, advocating for the understanding of history as a vital narrative. His writings emphasized the importance of national identity and included passionate expressions of the evolving spirit of France.

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