What Happened This Year 1878
People Who Died in 1878
Claude 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.
Continue ReadingCatharine Beecher
An influential educator and author focused on women's education and domestic science. Founded the Hartford Female Seminary in Connecticut, promoting higher education for women. Advocated for women's roles in education and the importance of teaching in societal development. Contributed significantly to the establishment of education for women in the 19th century through writings and organizational efforts.
Continue ReadingAlfonso Ferrero La Marmora
Served as a general in the Royal Army and significantly contributed to military campaigns during the Second Italian War of Independence. Held the position of the 6th Prime Minister of Italy from 1864 to 1865, focusing on national unity and administrative reforms. Actively involved in the Risorgimento, leading troops during notable battles. La Marmora's political career included serving as a Minister of War, overseeing the military organization of the newly unified Italy.
Continue ReadingFrançois-Vincent Raspail
Born in 1794, this individual contributed significantly to the fields of chemistry and medicine. As a chemist, focused on mineral waters and their therapeutic uses. Developed a method for examining the composition of bodies, which had applications in both chemistry and forensic science. In medicine, the individual performed pioneering research in physiology, highlighting the importance of experimental method in medical science. Also engaged in politics and was a proponent of social reforms. His work extended to legal reforms, advocating for health and civil rights.
Continue ReadingJoseph Bonomi the Younger
A British Egyptologist and sculptor contributed extensively to the study of ancient Egyptian art and architecture. His work included travels to Egypt, where detailed sketches and sculptural designs were created based on archaeological sites. His artistic style combined classical influences with an accurate representation of ancient Egyptian motifs. Bonomi also engaged in a variety of projects, including work on restoring the tomb of Seti I. He took on teaching roles, influencing the next generation of artists and scholars in the field of Egyptology. Additionally, he authored and illustrated several publications, further enhancing the understanding of ancient Egyptian civilization.
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 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 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 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.
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