What Happened This Year 1878
Historical Events from This Year 1878 (View all 27)
Sofia Liberated from Ottoman Control
On April 1, 1878, the city of Sofia was liberated from Ottoman rule by Russian troops during the Russo-Turkish War. This marked a significant turning point in the Balkan region's struggle for independence from Ottoman domination. The Russian campaign aimed to assist Slavic nations in gaining freedom, as the Ottomans had ruled Sofia and much of Bulgaria for centuries. As Russian soldiers entered the city, they were welcomed with jubilation by the Bulgarian population, signifying both a liberation from oppression and a new chapter for Bulgarian national identity.
Continue ReadingUmberto I Ascends to Italy's Throne
On this significant occasion, Umberto I became the King of Italy following the assassination of his predecessor, King Victor Emmanuel II. Born as Umberto, Prince of Savoy, he took on the royal responsibilities amidst a period of transformation in Italy. The event marked the start of his reign in the Palace of Quirinal in Rome, where he formally accepted the crown, promising to uphold and protect the newly united nation.
Continue ReadingCaptain Aleksandr Burago Liberates Plovdiv
Captain Aleksandr Burago led a squadron of Russian Imperial army dragoons to liberate the city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria, from Ottoman rule during the Russo-Turkish War. This maneuver was part of a larger campaign to support Bulgarian national liberation. The operation reflected the strategic importance of Plovdiv in establishing control over southeastern Europe.
Continue ReadingYale Daily News launches as first independent college paper
The Yale Daily News was established as the first independent daily college newspaper in the United States, marking a pivotal moment in student journalism. Founded by a group of Yale University students, the publication aimed to provide an unfiltered voice for student opinions and campus events. The newspaper's commitment to independence from the university administration allowed it to cover stories with a critical lens, significantly shaping how college news was reported. This initiative reflected the growing trend of student activism and the demand for transparency within academic institutions.
Continue ReadingMurder of John Tunstall Ignites Lincoln County War
John Tunstall was murdered by outlaw Jesse Evans in Lincoln County, New Mexico, on February 18, 1878. This act of violence was a pivotal moment that ignited the Lincoln County War, a conflict between rival factions in the county over business interests. Tunstall was a prominent cattleman and merchant, and his murder marked the escalation of tensions between his supporters and those aligned with Evans. As a consequence, a series of violent confrontations ensued, drawing in local lawmen and forming the backdrop for the notorious skirmishes that characterized the war.
Continue ReadingThomas Edison patents the phonograph
Thomas Edison received a patent for the phonograph, a groundbreaking invention that allowed for the recording and playback of sound. This innovation marked a significant advancement in audio technology, transforming how music and spoken word could be shared. Edison's phonograph utilized a tinfoil cylinder to record sound vibrations, which could then be played back. The patent was granted by the U.S. Patent Office in Washington, D.C., leading to a series of developments that would revolutionize the music industry and personal audio experiences.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1878 (View all 192)
Agner Krarup Erlang
Contributed to the field of probability theory and queuing theory, establishing foundations for telecommunications and traffic engineering. Developed mathematical tools to analyze traffic flow and system congestion. Formulated Erlang's formula, which became a crucial element in telecommunications for determining the number of lines needed for a given number of calls. Worked at the Telephone Company in Copenhagen, providing insights that greatly improved telephone service efficiency.
Continue ReadingMannathu Padmanabha Pillai
Founded the Nair Service Society in 1914, aiming to uplift the Nair community. Worked towards social reform and education, advocating for the rights and welfare of the Nair people in Kerala. Contributed to the movements for socio-political reform in the region, promoting unity among various social classes. Instrumental in addressing issues of caste discrimination and worked closely with other reformists to enhance the social standing of marginalized communities.
Continue ReadingJaakko Mäki
Born in 1878, this individual became a significant figure in Finnish politics during the early 20th century. Participated actively in the Finnish Parliament, representing the interests of the working class. Contributed to the development of social policies and labor rights during a transformative period in Finnish history. Engaged in various political reforms aimed at improving the quality of life for citizens. Held a prominent role in shaping the social democratic movement in Finland.
Continue ReadingAugustus John
Born in 1878, a prominent painter and illustrator emerged in the early 20th century in Wales. This individual studied at the Royal Academy Schools and became known for portraiture and depictions of the Welsh countryside. The artist's style combined elements of impressionism and symbolism, leading to a distinctive personal aesthetic. Numerous exhibitions showcased this individual's work, including those at the Leicester Galleries in London. Engagements in the art community included associations with the New English Art Club and contributions to various art publications. This artist's contributions extended to illustrations for literature, with notable works for the poetry of W.B. Yeats and the novels of Thomas Hardy. The artist's influence persisted in the promotion of Welsh culture through art.
Continue ReadingA. E. Coppard
Coppard was an English poet and short story writer. His literary career included contributions to various periodicals and the production of several collections of poetry and short stories. Coppard's work often explored themes of nature and human experience with a unique style. He published notable works that gained attention during his lifetime, receiving critical acclaim for his contributions to literature. His narratives often conveyed rich imagery and vivid detail, showcasing his command of language. In 1930, he received the Hawthornden Prize for his poetry, highlighting recognition within literary circles.
Continue ReadingAdeline Genée
Born in Denmark, became a prominent ballerina in the early 20th century, performing extensively in the United Kingdom. Played a significant role in popularizing ballet in Britain. Served as the principal dancer for the Imperial Russian Ballet and the Royal Ballet. Contributed to ballet education as a teacher and choreographer, influencing future generations of dancers. Actively participated in various productions and was recognized for her performances both as a dancer and a choreographer.
Continue ReadingPeople Who Died in 1878 (View all 47)
Nikolay Nekrasov
Associated with the Russian literary movement in the 19th century, contributed significantly to poetry and literary criticism. Focused on themes of social issues and the plight of the peasantry. Worked on periodicals to promote literature and engage with the cultural landscape. His poetry often reflected the struggles and hardships of the Russian people while exploring philosophical themes.
Continue ReadingVictor Emmanuel II of Italy
Served as King of Sardinia from 1849 and became the first King of Italy in 1861. Played a pivotal role in the unification of Italy, overseeing significant military campaigns and political maneuvers that consolidated various states into a single nation. His reign witnessed the annexation of territories, including Lombardy and the Two Sicilies, ultimately leading to the establishment of Italy as a kingdom. Held the throne until death in 1878, leaving a legacy in the formation of modern Italy.
Continue ReadingEdward Shepherd Creasy
Creasy was an English historian and jurist. Education included studying at the University of Oxford. He served as a member of the bar and held a position as a judge in the British legal system. Creasy’s written works contributed to historical scholarship, particularly in the analysis of military history. The book 'Fifteen Decisive Battles of the World', published in 1851, gained significant attention for its examination of key battles and their impacts on history. This work remains a reference for military historians and students alike. Later in life, he became involved in politics and served as a member of the House of Commons. Creasy's contributions to history and law are recognized through his published works and judicial roles.
Continue ReadingAntoine César Becquerel
A physicist and academic contributed significantly to the study of radioactivity. Conducted pioneering experiments on the electromagnetic spectrum and discovered the phenomenon of phosphorescence in uranium salts. His work laid the foundational principles for future research in radioactivity and influenced scientists such as Marie Curie. Also served in various educational and research roles, promoting scientific inquiry.
Continue ReadingHenri Victor Regnault
Contributed significantly to the study of thermodynamics and the behavior of gases. Conducted extensive research on the specific heats of various substances. Developed methods for measuring thermal conductivity and demonstrated the laws governing the expansion of gases. Published influential works that laid foundations for modern physics and chemistry. Actively involved in promoting scientific education and aimed to establish systematic approaches in experimental science.
Continue ReadingPope Pius IX
Became pope in 1846 and served until death in 1878, leading the Catholic Church through significant events such as the First Vatican Council which defined papal infallibility. Oversaw the loss of the Papal States, leading to a decrease in temporal power. Advocated for the dogma of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, declared in 1854. His reign was marked by political turmoil in Italy and Europe, which shaped the Church's modern role.
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