What Happened This Year 1885

People Who Died in 1885

John Light Atlee

Physician and surgeon, founder of surgery
Born
November 2nd, 1799 225 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1885 139 years ago — 85 years old

A prominent physician and surgeon, contributed significantly to surgical practices in the 19th century. Resided in the United States, where the establishment of various surgical techniques took place. Instrumental in advancing the field of medicine through innovative procedures and teaching methods. Published numerous works that helped in educating future practitioners.

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Thomas C. Durant

Railroad tycoon and financier
Born
February 6th, 1820 205 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1885 139 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent figure in American railroad expansion during the 19th century. Played a crucial role in the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad, specifically the Union Pacific Railroad. Involved in various railroad ventures and financial enterprises, contributing significantly to the growth of the rail industry in the United States. Faced substantial controversies due to financial practices and conflicts related to railroad construction and operations. Contributed to the development of the infrastructure that helped shape the American economy.

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Louis Riel

Canadian Métis politician and leader
Born
October 22nd, 1844 180 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1885 139 years ago — 41 years old

A central figure in the history of Canada, this individual played a significant role in the political landscape of the Métis people. Riel's leadership was crucial during the Red River and North-West Rebellions, advocating for the rights and land claims of the Métis. After leading the Red River Rebellion in 1869-1870, he helped establish the province of Manitoba. His actions positioned him as a political leader of the Métis. After exile, he returned in 1884 to lead the North-West Rebellion, which sought to address grievances against the Canadian government. Riel faced trial and was ultimately executed in 1885, becoming a controversial figure in Canadian history.

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Nicolás Avellaneda

Argentinian President and journalist
Born
October 3rd, 1837 187 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1885 139 years ago — 48 years old

Served as the 8th President of Argentina from 1874 to 1880. Improved education and infrastructure during presidential term. Contributed to national policy and economic growth through various reforms. Promoted immigration to bolster Argentina's population and workforce. Advocated for the expansion of railroads and telegraph lines.

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Alfonso XII of Spain

King of Spain, leader during Restoration
Born
November 28th, 1857 167 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1885 139 years ago — 27 years old

Ruled as the King of Spain from 1874 until 1885, overseeing a period known as the Restoration, which aimed to restore the Bourbon monarchy and maintain political stability. His reign witnessed the establishment of a constitutional monarchy, the consolidation of his authority, and efforts to modernize the country. Initiated significant infrastructure projects and improved education. The monarchy under his reign restored political order following a period of upheaval and instability. His early death led to a power vacuum that influenced Spanish politics.

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Thomas A. Hendricks

21st Vice President of the United States
Born
September 7th, 1819 205 years ago
Died
November 25th, 1885 139 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the 21st Vice President of the United States under President Grover Cleveland. Held office from March 4, 1885, until his death on November 25, 1885. Was a prominent lawyer and politician in Indiana and actively participated in state politics. Served as a U.S. Congressman from 1851 to 1855 and as the Governor of Indiana from 1861 to 1862. Played a key role in the development of the Democratic Party in Indiana.

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Thomas Andrews

Chemist and physicist, Refrigeration Pioneer
Born
December 9th, 1813 211 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1885 139 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent chemist and physicist, contributions included significant advancements in the field of thermodynamics and the development of refrigeration technology. Served as a professor of chemistry at Queen's College, Belfast. Developed the concept of the critical point and published influential research on gas behaviors. Played a crucial role in studying the properties of matter and contributed to the formulation of the kinetic theory of gases. Passed away in 1885, leaving a legacy in scientific education and research.

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Allen Wright

Principal Chief of the Choctaw Nation
Born
1826 199 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1885 139 years ago — 59 years old

Served as the Principal Chief of the Choctaw Nation from 1866 to 1870. Proposed the name 'Oklahoma,' derived from the Choctaw words 'okra' and 'umma,' which translates to 'Territory of the Red People.' During the leadership, advocated for improvements in education and infrastructure within the Nation. His leadership coincided with a period of change and adjustment following the Civil War.

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William Henry Vanderbilt

Businessman and philanthropist, railroad magnate
Born
May 8th, 1821 203 years ago
Died
December 8th, 1885 139 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1821, Vanderbilt significantly expanded the family business primarily in railroads. As president of the New York Central Railroad, he oversaw the growth and modernization of rail transport in the United States. Following the death of his father, he managed the largest railroad network in the country. Vanderbilt was instrumental in integrating various railroad lines and was a pioneer in establishing more efficient operations. His philanthropic efforts included funding the construction of various public institutions and improvements in transportation infrastructure.

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