What Happened This Year 1877

Historical Events from This Year 1877 (View all 29)

Politics & Government

Queen Victoria Proclaimed Empress of India

January 1st, 1877 148 years ago

In a grand ceremony held in Delhi, Queen Victoria was proclaimed Empress of India, reflecting British sovereignty over the vast subcontinent. The proclamation was part of the largest reorganisation of British India following the 1857 uprising, consolidating power in the British crown. It aimed to establish a symbolic link between the monarchy and the Indian territories, emphasizing the British Empire's commitment to governance and development in India.

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Military & Warfare

Crazy Horse's Last Stand at Wolf Mountain

January 8th, 1877 148 years ago

The last battle of Crazy Horse and his warriors occurred at Wolf Mountain against the United States Cavalry. This confrontation, characterized by its fierce intensity, marked a climax in the conflicts between Native American tribes and U.S. forces. Crazy Horse, a prominent leader of the Lakota Sioux, sought to protect his people's way of life amid increasing encroachment by settlers and the U.S. government. Despite their valiant efforts, the warriors faced overwhelming odds, showcasing the determination and bravery of Native defenders in their struggle for survival.

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Politics & Government

Agreement for Political Reforms in the Balkans

January 20th, 1877 148 years ago

Following extensive discussions, representatives of the Great Powers reached an agreement on political reforms in the Balkans, primarily focusing on the Ottoman Empire's territories. The conference sought to address the growing nationalist movements and local governance demands. These negotiations aimed to stabilize the region amid escalating tensions as various ethnic groups clamored for respect and representation. The final accords which emerged emphasized autonomy and delineated responsibilities within the provinces.

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Arts & Culture

Swan Lake Premieres at the Bolshoi Theatre

February 20th, 1877 148 years ago

Tchaikovsky's ballet 'Swan Lake' premiered at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow in a night marked by its enchanting music and themes of love and tragedy. Although initially met with a lukewarm reception, the ballet's choreography, which depicted the story of Odette, a princess transformed into a swan, captivated audiences. Despite its challenges, 'Swan Lake' would later come to be considered one of Tchaikovsky's most significant works in the ballet repertoire.

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Politics & Government

Congress Declares Rutherford B. Hayes Winner

March 2nd, 1877 148 years ago

Rutherford B. Hayes was declared the winner of the 1876 U.S. presidential election by Congress, amid a controversial electoral process. Although Samuel J. Tilden secured the popular vote, disputes over electoral votes led to a complicated resolution. The election was marred by allegations of fraud and voter suppression, primarily in Southern states. Ultimately, a bipartisan commission was formed, and after intense negotiations, Hayes was awarded the presidency two days before inauguration.

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Sports & Recreation

First Official Cricket Test Match Played

March 15th, 1877 148 years ago

The inaugural official Test match occurred between Australia and England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, showcasing the sport's competitive spirit. The match lasted for five days, drawing significant public interest and marked a pivotal moment in cricket history. Australia emerged victorious, defeating England in a closely contested match, laying the foundation for the Test cricket format recognized worldwide.

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Born in 1877 (View all 159)

Alexander von Staël-Holstein

German sinologist and orientalist expert
Born
January 1st, 1877 148 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1937 87 years ago — 60 years old

Specialized in the study of Chinese culture and language, contributing significantly to the field of sinology. Held academic positions that allowed for extensive research and publications. Conducted numerous translations of Chinese texts, fostering a deeper understanding of Chinese literature and philosophy in the West.

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Josephine Hull

American actress in 'Harvey'
Born
January 3rd, 1877 148 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1957 68 years ago — 80 years old

An accomplished actress, her career spanned several decades, primarily on stage and in film. Hull gained recognition for her performances in theatrical productions before transitioning into cinema. The role in the classic film 'Harvey' earned significant acclaim, leading to an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She also appeared in various other films and plays, contributing to her reputation in the entertainment industry.

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Marsden Hartley

American painter and poet with modernist works
Born
January 4th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1943 81 years ago — 66 years old

An influential painter and poet, this individual played a significant role in the American modernist movement. Early training included studies at the New York School of Fine Arts. Travel to Europe brought exposure to avant-garde art, particularly from Germany and France. A notable connection was made with the German Expressionists, which influenced much of the individual's work. Post-World War I, created a series of paintings reflecting the aftermath and personal experiences. Later work encapsulated themes of identity, landscape, and emotional depth, showcasing a unique blend of abstraction and representation. Poetry was another medium employed, with some writings emphasizing personal and visual experiences.

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Gibson Gowland

English film actor known for 'Greed'
Born
January 4th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1951 74 years ago — 74 years old

An English film actor, gained recognition for performances in early silent films. Featured in 'Greed', directed by Erich von Stroheim, which is considered a landmark in American cinema. Worked in both the United Kingdom and the United States during the silent and early sound film eras. Contributed to the burgeoning film industry during its formative years and became associated with notable productions in the 1920s.

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William Clarence Matthews

Baseball player and lawyer, coached Red Sox
Born
January 7th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1928 97 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1877, this individual played Major League Baseball as a shortstop for the Boston Red Sox. Career spanned from 1901 to 1902. In addition to his athletic career, this person also pursued a profession in law. After leaving professional baseball, this individual contributed to the game as a coach. The combination of athletics and legal expertise marked a unique pathway during a time when few were able to blend sports and law.

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Frederick Gardner Cottrell

Physical chemist and inventor
Born
January 10th, 1877 148 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1877, a physical chemist and inventor contributed significantly to the understanding of electrochemistry and developed the Cottrell apparatus for measuring electrode reactions. Held a longstanding association with the University of California, Berkeley, serving as a professor and conducting extensive research in physical chemistry. Founded the Cottrell Research Corporation to commercialize inventions. Involved in philanthropy, supporting various educational and scientific causes throughout life. Actively engaged in science education, promoting advancements in physical chemistry and electrochemistry.

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People Who Died in 1877 (View all 44)

Cornelius Vanderbilt

Business magnate and philanthropist
Born
May 27th, 1794 230 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1877 148 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent American businessman, he made significant contributions to the shipping and railroad industries during the 19th century. Starting with a ferry service, amassed wealth through shipping by the time of the Civil War. Expanded into railroads, acquiring and consolidating lines, ultimately creating one of the largest railroad networks in the United States. Established the Vanderbilt University in Tennessee through philanthropy, leaving a lasting legacy in education.

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Johann Christian Poggendorff

German physicist and scientific journalist
Born
December 29th, 1796 228 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1877 148 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed significantly to physics, particularly in the fields of electricity and magnetism. Founded the journal Annalen der Physik und Chemie to disseminate scientific research and findings. Conducted extensive research on the electromotive force and made advancements in the understanding of galvanism. Educated at the University of Berlin, later became a prominent figure in scientific circles, promoting education and public interest in the sciences. Also contributed to the establishment of the Physical Society in Berlin.

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Costache Caragiale

Romanian actor and theater manager
Born
1815 210 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1877 148 years ago — 62 years old

An influential figure in Romanian theater, contributed significantly to the development of the dramatic arts in Romania during the 19th century. Managed the National Theatre in Bucharest, which became a central hub for theatrical performances. Also directed and performed in various productions, leaving a lasting legacy in Romanian culture.

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Rayko Zhinzifov

Bulgarian poet and translator
Born
February 15th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1877 148 years ago — 38 years old

Zhinzifov contributed significantly to Bulgarian literature as a poet and translator. A leading figure of the Bulgarian national revival, he actively participated in cultural and educational reforms. His poetic work often reflected national themes, while his translations introduced foreign literature to the Bulgarian audience, enriching the local literary scene. He was involved in publishing efforts and cultural associations aimed at promoting Bulgarian identity during a critical time in the country's history.

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Jung Bahadur Rana

Nepalese ruler and prime minister
Born
June 18th, 1816 208 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1877 148 years ago — 60 years old

Served as the prime minister of Nepal from 1846 until death in 1877. Established the hereditary Rana dynasty and centralized power in his position. Introduced significant reforms in governance, military, and education. Strengthened the authority of the prime minister's office and limited royal influence. Under leadership, Nepal underwent modernization efforts and the establishment of a modern administrative system.

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Juan Manuel de Rosas

Argentinian general and politician
Born
March 30th, 1793 231 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1877 148 years ago — 83 years old

Served as Governor of Buenos Aires Province multiple times during the 19th century. Played a significant role in Argentine politics and military conflicts. Led efforts to centralize power and control the federalist forces in Argentina. Was a prominent figure in the civil wars that shaped the nation’s early history.

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