What Happened This Year 1878
People Who Died in 1878
Henry Wells
A businessman co-founded Wells Fargo and American Express in the mid-19th century. Focused on providing banking services and expanding financial systems, helped transform the landscape of American finance. Was instrumental in developing express mail services, allowing for faster communication and commercial transactions across the growing nation.
Continue ReadingLuigi Amat di San Filippo e Sorso
Born in 1796, served in various diplomatic roles within the Papal States. Elected as a cardinal in 1843, took part in the Second Vatican Council. Contributed to the direction of the Catholic Church during a period of significant political and social change in Italy. Held important positions in the Roman Curia and engaged in numerous ecclesiastical duties.
Continue ReadingRobert Stirling
A Scottish clergyman and inventor contributed significantly to engineering with the invention of the Stirling engine in 1816. This engine proposed a new method of converting heat into mechanical energy, using a fixed amount of gas that transferred heat in and out via external sources. The design allowed for high efficiency and low emissions, making it notable in the field of thermodynamics. Stirling also published papers and engaged in various mechanical experiments. His invention found applications in many areas, including refrigeration and power generation, paving the way for future innovations in engineering.
Continue ReadingErnst Heinrich Weber
A prominent physician and psychologist, contributions primarily involved sensory perception and psychophysics. Developed Weber's Law, which formulated the relationship between the magnitude of a stimulus and the smallest detectable difference, known as just noticeable difference (JND). This law laid the groundwork for the field of psychophysics and advanced understanding of sensory thresholds. Held a professorship at the University of Leipzig, contributing to academic discourse and research in psychology. Involved in experimental psychology, emphasizing the empirical measurement of psychological phenomena.
Continue ReadingGeorge Foster Shepley
Served as a general in the United States Army during the American Civil War. Held important commands in various campaigns, particularly in the Department of the Gulf. Participated in the capture of New Orleans in 1862. After the war, became a prominent political and civic leader in Louisiana.
Continue ReadingAngelo Secchi
An astronomer and academic contributed significantly to the field of astrophysics in the 19th century. Pioneered the study of stellar spectra, establishing a classification system for stars based on their light emissions. Served as a professor of astronomy at the College of Roman College, where extensive research on planetary atmospheres and celestial phenomena was conducted. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Vatican Observatory, enhancing the role of the Catholic Church in scientific inquiry.
Continue ReadingCharles Hodge
A prominent theologian contributed to the development of Reformed theology in America. Played a critical role at Princeton Theological Seminary, serving as a professor for over forty years. Authored significant works including systematic theology textbooks which provided comprehensive insights into Christian doctrine and biblical interpretation. Edited the Princeton Review, influencing theological discourse during the 19th century. Engaged in debates on theology and modernism, defending traditional beliefs while addressing contemporary issues.
Continue ReadingVasily Sleptsov
Born in 1836, a prominent Russian author and activist focused on social issues and literature. Contributed to the Russian literary scene with works that highlighted the struggles of the common people. Engaged in various reforms aimed at improving social conditions and fought against injustices in society. Writings reflected the political and social climate of the time, advocating for change and raising awareness about pressing issues.
Continue ReadingClaude Bernard
A prominent figure in physiology, contributions include the introduction of the concept of the milieu intérieur, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a stable internal environment within organisms. Conducted pioneering experiments that laid the foundation for modern experimental medicine. Established the method of rigorous experimentation in science and introduced the concept of the 'experiment' as a fundamental aspect of scientific inquiry. Published important works, including 'Introduction à l'étude de la médecine expérimentale' which outlined principles of experimental research.
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