Historical Events, Birthdays and Deaths in 1879

1878 1880

What Happened This Year 1879

All Events 36 Births 181 Deaths 56

People Who Died in 1879

Muthu Coomaraswamy

Sri Lankan lawyer and politician

Born

January 23rd, 1833 192 years ago

Died

1879 146 years ago — 46 years old

Born in 1833, a prominent figure in Sri Lanka's legal and political landscape. Served as the first Ceylonese to be appointed as a judge in the Supreme Court of Ceylon. Played a key role in advocating for social reforms and the rights of the local population during colonial rule. Contributed significantly to the legal profession and public service in the country, influencing future legislation and governance.

Saint Innocent of Alaska

Orthodox missionary and first bishop in America

Born

August 26th, 1797 227 years ago

Died

1879 146 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1797, served as a Russian Orthodox missionary priest in Alaska. Became the first Orthodox bishop and archbishop in the Americas, contributing to the spread of Orthodoxy in North America. Ultimately appointed as the Metropolitan of Moscow and all Russia, overseeing significant religious affairs. His missionary work included publishing literature in native languages and establishing churches and schools.