What Happened This Year 1877

People Who Died in 1877

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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Antoine Augustin Cournot

French mathematician and philosopher
Born
August 28th, 1801 223 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1877 147 years ago — 75 years old

This mathematician and philosopher contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and economics. Cournot formulated the Cournot model of oligopoly, which examines how firms in an industry compete on quantity. He published the book 'Researches into the Mathematical Principles of the Theory of Wealth' in 1838, establishing important foundations for the field of mathematical economics. His work also explored probability and statistics, positioning him as a key figure in early economic theory and its mathematical applications.

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Bernardino António Gomes

Portuguese physician and naturalist
Born
September 22nd, 1806 218 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1877 147 years ago — 70 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of natural history and medicine in Portugal. Conducted extensive research and observations on various flora and fauna. Published works that added to the understanding of Portuguese biodiversity. Engaged in education and the promotion of scientific knowledge during the 19th century.

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James P. Kirkwood

Engineer; designed timber structures
Born
1807 218 years ago
Died
April 22nd, 1877 147 years ago — 70 years old

A significant figure in engineering, this individual specialized in the design and construction of timber structures. Contributed to the development of various important infrastructure projects, particularly in the context of civil engineering during the 19th century. Emphasized innovative techniques in timber frame construction, which influenced building practices of the era.

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