What Happened This Year 1880

People Who Died in 1880

Texas Jack Omohundro

American soldier and hunter
Born
1846 179 years ago
Died
June 28th, 1880 144 years ago — 34 years old

A soldier and scout in the American West, played significant roles during the Indian Wars. Participated in cattle drives and became a trailblazer of the frontier. Gained notoriety for hunting during travels across the West and showcased skills as a skilled horseman and tracker. Later involved in performing and entertaining, contributing to the popular Wild West shows.

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Paul Broca

Anatomist known for Broca's area
Born
June 28th, 1824 200 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1880 144 years ago — 56 years old

A French physician and anatomist, contributed significantly to the field of anthropology and neurology. Established the concept of localized brain functions through research on patients with language disorders. Discovered Broca's area, a region in the frontal lobe associated with speech production. Conducted studies that laid the groundwork for understanding the brain's role in language, which influenced modern neuroscience.

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Ferdinand Ritter von Hebra

Austrian dermatologist, introduced histology
Born
1816 209 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1880 144 years ago — 64 years old

Austrian physician and dermatologist specialized in skin diseases. Pioneered the use of microscopy in dermatology, greatly advancing the understanding of skin pathology. Served as a professor at the University of Vienna, where contributed to education and practice in dermatology. Published significant works and established numerous teaching resources that influenced future generations of dermatologists. Helped establish the Vienna School of Dermatology, which played a crucial role in shaping the field.

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Manuel Montt

Chilean politician, 6th President of Chile
Born
September 4th, 1809 215 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1880 144 years ago — 71 years old

A scholar and politician, served as the 6th President of Chile from 1851 to 1861. Focused on education reform and the modernization of the political system. Advocated for a strong central government and supported the creation of new institutions to promote progress. Played a significant role in the expansion of the Chilean railway network.

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Jacques Offenbach

Composer of operettas and songs
Born
June 20th, 1819 205 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1880 144 years ago — 61 years old

Born in Germany and later settled in France, a prominent cellist and composer flourished during the 19th century. Worked primarily in the operetta genre, contributing significantly to the development of the form. Best remembered for composing "Orphée aux Enfers," which features the famous "Can-Can" music. Offenbach's style combined wit and satirical commentary, leading to a resurgence of popularity in comic opera.

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Lydia Maria Child

American journalist and abolitionist
Born
February 11th, 1802 223 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1880 144 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent journalist, author, and activist, contributed significantly to social reform in the 19th century. Published a series of influential books, including 'Hobomok' in 1824, which was one of the first novels to depict Native American characters sympathetically. Actively campaigned against slavery and supported women's rights, writing extensively on both subjects. Served as editor for the influential magazine 'The National Anti-Slavery Standard' and was among the first to advocate for the rights of women and children. Her work laid the foundation for the abolitionist movement and she became a respected voice among reformers.

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Thrasyvoulos Zaimis

Greek Prime Minister and soldier
Born
1822 203 years ago
Died
October 27th, 1880 144 years ago — 58 years old

Held the office of Prime Minister of Greece, serving during a critical period in the nation's history. Zaimis participated in military actions and was involved in significant political events. His leadership contributed to the shaping of Greece during the late 19th century, a time marked by political unrest and social change. Engaged in diplomatic and domestic affairs, Zaimis worked toward the stabilization of the government. His tenure as Prime Minister saw efforts to address national issues and promote governance.

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Edwin Drake

Oil industry pioneer; drilled first oil well
Born
1819 206 years ago
Died
November 9th, 1880 144 years ago — 61 years old

An American businessman pioneered the oil industry by drilling the first successful oil well in Titusville, Pennsylvania in 1859. This event marked the beginning of the modern petroleum industry. His drilling technique, which utilized a steam engine, allowed for the extraction of oil from deep underground, transforming energy production and fueling the growth of various industries. The oil obtained from the well was initially used for lighting and lubricating purposes, but it eventually sparked a vast commercial enterprise that expanded into gasoline and other petroleum products. Drake's efforts laid the groundwork for the development of oil fields across the United States and the world, establishing a significant economic sector.

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Ned Kelly

Australian bushranger and outlaw
Born
1855 170 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1880 144 years ago — 25 years old

A prominent figure in Australian history, known for violent confrontations with law enforcement during the late 19th century. Operated as a bushranger in Victoria, leading his gang in a series of robberies and conflicts. Captured in 1880 after a final shootout at Glenrowan, the individual was tried and executed for murder. The legacy encompasses both infamy and a sense of folk hero status, deeply rooted in Australian culture.

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