What Happened This Year 1879

People Who Died in 1879

Begum Hazrat Mahal

Begum of Awadh, Indian independence leader
Born
1820 205 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1879 145 years ago — 59 years old

The Begum of Awadh was a significant figure during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. As the second wife of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, she became one of the leaders who opposed British rule. After the annexation of Awadh, she played a crucial role in rallying the people against British forces, eventually declaring her son as the ruler of Awadh. The Begum led troops during the conflict and was a key participant in the sieges of Delhi. Following the defeat of the rebellion, she went into exile and lived in Nepal until her death in 1879.

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Richard Taylor

General and historian, Civil War leader
Born
January 27th, 1826 199 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1879 145 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1826, a general in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War, held the position of a major general. Contributed to key battles, including the Battle of Mansfield and the Battle of Pleasant Hill in Louisiana. After the war, pursued a career in politics and served as a Louisiana State Senator and as a member of the House of Representatives. Authored works on military history, including reflections on the events of the Civil War. His historical analyses provided insights into military strategies and leadership during the conflict.

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Bernadette Soubirous

French nun and saint of Lourdes
Born
January 7th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1879 145 years ago — 35 years old

Born in 1844, this individual became a nun and gained attention after experiencing visions of the Virgin Mary in a grotto in Lourdes, France. These apparitions led to the site becoming a major place of pilgrimage. This individual spent most of life in a convent and devoted years serving in a religious capacity. Canonized as a saint in 1933, her life story and the events at Lourdes have inspired countless faithful and are central to Catholic devotion.

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Emma Smith

American religious leader and founder
Born
July 10th, 1804 220 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1879 145 years ago — 74 years old

An American religious leader, played a significant role in the early years of the Latter Day Saint movement. Co-founded the Relief Society in 1842, an organization focused on charity and social service within the church. Contributed to the publication of the church's first hymnbook. Advocated for women's roles within the church and church community. After the assassination of her husband, Joseph Smith, in 1844, faced challenges in leadership during a critical time in church history. Relocated to what is now Utah, continuing to be active in church affairs until death in 1877.

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Gottfried Semper

Architect, designed Semper Opera House
Born
November 29th, 1803 221 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1879 145 years ago — 75 years old

An architect and academic, played a significant role in the development of 19th-century architecture. Studied in Germany, and taught at various institutions. Designed the Semper Opera House in Dresden, which exemplified a harmonious integration of art and architecture, and is considered a landmark of his career. Contributed to architectural theory and the study of styles, focusing on the importance of materials and their historical context in design.

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Asa Packer

American businessman and university founder
Born
1805 220 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1879 145 years ago — 74 years old

A businessman from Pennsylvania, established a significant fortune in the railroad industry. Founded Lehigh University in 1865, contributing to higher education in the region. Involved in various philanthropic efforts aimed at supporting education and infrastructure development in Pennsylvania. His investments in railroads had a lasting influence on regional commerce.

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Arturo Prat

Chilean naval captain and lawyer
Born
April 3rd, 1848 176 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1879 145 years ago — 31 years old

This individual served as a captain in the Chilean Navy and was also a lawyer. His role in the War of the Pacific was significant, particularly during the Battle of Iquique. Adept in naval tactics, he led efforts against the Peruvian Navy while aboard the Esmeralda. His actions during this engagement symbolized patriotism, and his death marked him as a national hero. The legacy includes his enduring reputation in Chilean history and education regarding naval warfare.

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William Lloyd Garrison

Abolitionist journalist and activist
Born
December 10th, 1805 219 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1879 145 years ago — 73 years old

Owned and published the abolitionist newspaper, The Liberator, which advocated for the immediate emancipation of enslaved individuals. Co-founded the American Anti-Slavery Society to mobilize public opinion against slavery and promote civil rights. Worked tirelessly for women's rights, aligning with other reform movements of the time. Played a significant role in the abolitionist movement, influencing public discourse through powerful speeches and writings.

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Napoléon

Prince Imperial of France
Born
March 16th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1879 145 years ago — 23 years old

Born in 1856, he served as the Prince Imperial of the French Empire. The singular son of Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie, he was designated to continue the Bonaparte legacy. He moved to England following the fall of the Second Empire in France. During the Franco-Prussian War, he enlisted in the British Army and later joined the 1st Battalion of the 60th Rifles. He participated in the Zulu War in 1879, where he met his end during the Battle of Isandlwana.

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