What Happened This Year 1884

Historical Events from This Year 1884 (View all 17)

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Foundation of the Fabian Society in London

January 4th, 1884 141 years ago

The Fabian Society, a socialist organization, was founded in London by a group of intellectuals and activists including George Bernard Shaw and Sidney Webb. The society aimed to promote socialist ideals through gradual reform rather than revolutionary means, advocating for social justice, economic equality, and political reform in British society. It became a significant player in the formation of the Labour Party and the development of British socialism.

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Education & Academia

Publication of Oxford English Dictionary Volume A-Ant

February 1st, 1884 141 years ago

The first volume of the Oxford English Dictionary, covering words from A to Ant, was published in Oxford, England. This monumental work was initiated under the editorship of James Murray in 1879 as a response to the need for a comprehensive and systematic reference for the English language. The publication marked the beginning of a significant achievement in lexicography, aiming to document the evolution of English words, their definitions, and usage. The dictionary would go on to become a crucial resource for scholars and authors worldwide, showcasing the diversity and richness of the English lexicon. The launch highlighted the collaboration of numerous contributors who provided insights into the language's historical development.

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Natural Disasters

Large Tornado Outbreak Strikes Southern U.S.

February 19th, 1884 141 years ago

Over sixty tornadoes struck several states in the Southern United States, greatly impacting regions like Mississippi and Alabama. The storm system was traced to a powerful cold front colliding with warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico, creating an ideal environment for tornado formation. The widespread devastation included destroyed homes, uprooted trees, and severe casualties. Eyewitnesses reported multiple tornadoes occurring simultaneously, a remarkable and horrifying event that underlined the severity of the outbreak.

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Military & Warfare

Siege of Khartoum Commences Under General Gordon

March 13th, 1884 141 years ago

The Siege of Khartoum began as Mahdist forces, commanded by Muhammad Ahmad (the Mahdi), surrounded the city to challenge British control. General Charles Gordon, sent to evacuate the besieged British citizens and soldiers, found his position increasingly precarious. The siege would last for nearly a year, concluding with a violent breach of the city's defenses. This confrontation showcased the complexities of British imperialism in Sudan and the strength of local resistance movements.

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Crime & Law

Cincinnati Courthouse Riot Following Verdict

March 27th, 1884 140 years ago

After a jury returned a manslaughter verdict perceived as unjust, a mob in Cincinnati attacked its members, leading to widespread riots. The violence escalated over the following days, resulting in the burning of the courthouse amidst public outrage over what many saw as a miscarriage of justice. The event exemplified the tensions surrounding the legal system's handling of serious crimes and community reactions.

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Religion & Philosophy

Pope Leo XIII Condemns Freemasonry

April 20th, 1884 140 years ago

Pope Leo XIII published the encyclical Humanum genus, which firmly condemned Freemasonry for its perceived opposition to the Catholic Church and its teachings. This document argued that the principles of Freemasonry were incompatible with the doctrines of the Church, particularly in terms of its moral and philosophical foundations. The Pope called for the faithful to oppose Masonic principles and asserted the importance of maintaining a distinct Catholic identity in society.

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Born in 1884 (View all 215)

Chikuhei Nakajima

Japanese engineer and politician
Born
January 1st, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1949 76 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1884, a lieutenant and engineer, established Nakajima Aircraft Company, which became a significant player in aircraft manufacturing during World War II. Contributed to aircraft design and production, serving as a leader in the aviation industry during a crucial period in Japanese history. Transitioned into politics post-war, influencing Japan's early aviation policy and industry redevelopment.

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Ben-Zion Dinur

Israeli historian and Minister of Education
Born
January 2nd, 1884 141 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1973 51 years ago — 89 years old

Born in Russia, this individual contributed significantly to Israeli education and historical scholarship. As the fourth Minister of Education in Israel, efforts included enhancing the educational curriculum and promoting Jewish history studies. In addition to political duties, served as a historian focusing on Jewish history, contributing to various publications and academic discussions about Jewish identity and education.

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Raoul Koczalski

Polish pianist and composer, composer of works
Born
January 3rd, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1948 77 years ago — 64 years old

Born in Poland, a prominent pianist and composer emerged in the early 20th century. Trained in piano and composition, gained recognition for original compositions and virtuosic performances. Established a career as a concert pianist, performing across Europe and collaborating with orchestras. Became influential in the music scene, contributing to both performance and composition realms. Taught music, passing on knowledge to future generations of musicians, thereby shaping the development of piano music. Later life included presentations and compositions, maintaining a presence in music circles until passing.

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Guy Pène du Bois

American painter and art critic
Born
January 4th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
1958 67 years ago — 74 years old

An American painter, critic, and educator, contributed to the development of American art in the early 20th century. Worked as a significant figure in the Ashcan School, which focused on depicting urban life and its challenges. Developed a unique style characterized by a blend of realism and expressionism. Served as a prominent art critic for various publications, assessing contemporary works and influencing public opinion on art. Additionally, educated future artists through teaching positions at several institutions.

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Texas Guinan

Entertainer and bootlegger
Born
January 12th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
November 5th, 1933 91 years ago — 49 years old

An American entertainer and speakeasy owner during the Prohibition era. Gained prominence in New York City and became a fixture in the nightlife scene. Established a reputation as a vibrant personality with a distinctive style. Operated the popular nightclub 'Guinan's' where entertainers performed and patrons enjoyed extravagant parties. Became a symbol of the Roaring Twenties, known for her catchphrase 'Hello, Sucker!' which embraced the spirit of the era. Contributed to the cultural landscape of the time through performances and gatherings.

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Auguste Piccard

Swiss physicist and balloon explorer
Born
January 28th, 1884 141 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1962 62 years ago — 78 years old

A physicist and explorer made significant contributions to high-altitude ballooning and research on cosmic rays. Originating from Switzerland, focused on the design and construction of scientific instruments for his expeditions. Conducted pioneering ascents in a stratospheric balloon, reaching altitudes beyond 15 kilometers. Became a prominent figure in the field of atmospheric physics and his work contributed to the understanding of radiation and its effects at high altitudes.

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People Who Died in 1884 (View all 48)

Leonidas Polk

General and Episcopal bishop
Born
April 10th, 1806 218 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1864 160 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1806, a prominent figure in both military and religious spheres. Served as a Confederate general during the American Civil War and held the position of a bishop in the Episcopal Church. Graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point. After his military career, focused on his role within the church, significantly contributing to its development in the South.

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Gregor Mendel

Czech geneticist and botanist
Born
July 20th, 1822 202 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1884 141 years ago — 61 years old

A geneticist and botanist, significant contributions to the understanding of heredity began with experimentation on pea plants. Established the foundational principles of inheritance, which later became known as Mendelian genetics. Work remained unrecognized until decades after it was published, influencing future genetic research.

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Hermann Schlegel

Ornithologist and herpetologist
Born
June 10th, 1804 220 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1884 141 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed to the fields of ornithology and herpetology in the 19th century. Mainly focused on the study of birds and reptiles, and published significant works on their classification and biology. Served as a curator at the Natural History Museum in Berlin, where substantial collections were researched and documented. Notable for contributions to the understanding of avian and reptilian species which influenced future studies in these areas.

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Périclès Pantazis

Greek-Belgian painter with notable landscapes
Born
1849 176 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1884 141 years ago — 35 years old

A prominent painter of the late 19th century, this individual focused on landscape and still-life compositions. Regular exhibitions in Brussels showcased works that reflected a strong influence of the Impressionist movement. The artist's creative pursuits were marked by a passion for capturing natural light and color, contributing to the evolution of modern art in Belgium. In later years, the artist returned to Greece, further exploring the themes of Greek nature in the body of work. Various pieces in collections such as the Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent highlight the talent and artistic journey.

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Lydia Hamilton Smith

African-American businesswoman
Born
February 14th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1884 141 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1813, a prominent African-American businesswoman engaged in various entrepreneurial endeavors. Operated a successful boarding house that catered to Black travelers and significant figures during the Civil War, providing accommodations to soldiers and officers. Became a key figure in local business circles and contributed to the economic stability of the community. Actively supported efforts related to the abolition of slavery and the empowerment of African-Americans during her lifetime.

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Isaac Todhunter

Mathematician and academic author
Born
November 23rd, 1820 204 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1884 141 years ago — 63 years old

An English mathematician and academic contributed significantly to mathematical education and literature. Authored numerous textbooks on geometry and calculus, influencing teaching methods in the field. Served as the editor for the 'Oxford University Series of Textbooks' and published works that were widely used in universities. Played a crucial role in advancing mathematical comprehension through clear and thorough explanations of complex concepts.

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