What Happened This Year 1885

People Who Died in 1885

Martha Darley Mutrie

British painter with notable landscapes
Born
August 26th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
December 30th, 1885 139 years ago — 61 years old

A British painter, recognized for contributions to landscape painting during the 19th century. Specialized in oil paintings, watercolors, and the depiction of rural and English countryside scenes. Exhibited works at the Royal Academy and was a member of the Society of British Artists. Emphasized the beauty of natural settings and presented a unique perspective in her artwork.

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André Gill

French caricaturist and illustrator
Born
October 17th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent caricaturist and illustrator, contributions spanned multiple forms of media, capturing the political and social climates of the time. Worked extensively for publications like 'Le Charivari' and his illustrations featured a satirical lens on contemporary events and personalities. Achieved recognition for his unique style that combined humor and critique, influencing later generations of artists engaged in satire.

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Carl Spitzweg

German painter and poet of 19th century
Born
February 5th, 1808 217 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 77 years old

Spitzweg gained recognition as a prominent painter and poet in the 19th century. His works often depicted themes of romanticism, capturing everyday life and landscapes in a unique style. Notable paintings include 'The Bookworm', showcasing a scholar immersed in literature, and 'The Poor Poet', illustrating the life of an artist struggling for recognition. These works exemplify the combination of humor and sentiment that characterizes much of his output. In addition to painting, Spitzweg wrote poetry that reflected his artistic vision.

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Ernst Laas

German philosopher and academic
Born
June 16th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 48 years old

Born in Germany, contributed significantly to the fields of philosophy and academia in the 19th century. Focused on the philosophy of knowledge and was involved in various philosophical discussions during this period. Played a role in shaping contemporary philosophical thought and engaged with prominent philosophers of the time. His academic career included teaching and influencing students and scholars.

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Ursula Frayne

Irish-Australian nun and missionary
Born
October 5th, 1816 209 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 69 years old

Born in Ireland, a nun and missionary dedicated life to education and social services in Australia. Arrived in Sydney in 1840, established the first Catholic school for girls in the country. Played a crucial role in founding the Sisters of the Good Samaritan, which focused on providing education and assistance to poor communities. Contributed to the expansion of Catholic institutions in Australia throughout the 19th century.

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George B. McClellan

American General and Governor of New Jersey
Born
December 3rd, 1826 199 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 59 years old

A military engineer and politician, served as a Union general during the American Civil War. Commanded the Army of the Potomac and led major operations, including the Peninsular Campaign. Resigned from the Army in 1862 and was elected the 24th Governor of New Jersey, serving from 1878 to 1881. After leaving office, held various positions in railroads and was involved in military affairs until his passing.

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John Rudolph Niernsee

American architect of the U.S. Capitol
Born
May 27th, 1814 211 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 71 years old

Born in Vienna in 1814, one of the prominent architects of the 19th century in America. Niernsee played a significant role in the design and construction of various government buildings. He served as the supervising architect of the U.S. Capitol's extension and contributed to the design of notable structures in Washington, D.C. His architectural style reflects elements of the Classical and Renaissance traditions, which were prevalent during his career. Niernsee's work has had a lasting influence on the architectural landscape of American civic buildings.

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Julius Benedict

Conductor and composer of operas
Born
November 27th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 81 years old

Born in Germany and later settled in England, contributed significantly to the music scene during the 19th century. Composed several operas, choral works, and orchestral pieces. Served as the conductor of the local orchestras and various musical societies. His works were performed in major venues, gaining attention in both Britain and Germany. Benedict also held the position of conductor at significant events, including performances at the 'Royal Italian Opera'.

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Ferdinand Hiller

German composer and conductor
Born
October 24th, 1811 214 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1811, a prominent German composer and conductor emerged as a significant figure in the Romantic music scene. Hiller studied under notable composers and contributed to the development of symphonic and choral music. Serving as the conductor for orchestras in Germany, he helped bring classical music to wider audiences. His works include symphonies, operas, and piano concertos, reflecting the stylistic transitions of 19th-century music.

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