What Happened This Year 1885

People Who Died in 1885

Martha Darley Mutrie

British painter with notable landscapes
Born
August 26th, 1824 200 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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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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Ursula Frayne

Irish-Australian nun and missionary
Born
October 5th, 1816 208 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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André Gill

French caricaturist and illustrator
Born
October 17th, 1840 184 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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Karl Schwarz

Theologian and German politician
Born
November 19th, 1812 212 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 73 years old

A theologian and politician, contributed significantly to the field of theology and engaged in political activities. Participated in shaping educational policies and reforms during a time of change in Germany. Was involved in various church activities and aimed to reconcile theological perspectives with contemporary issues. Worked within political frameworks to promote ideas aligned with his beliefs.

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Benjamin Russell

American painter and educator
Born
October 16th, 1804 220 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent American painter and educator, notable contributions include works that exemplified the style of American Romanticism. This artist gained recognition for teaching and influencing future generations through formal education. Engagement in various art exhibitions further established presence in the American art scene during the early 19th century.

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George B. McClellan

American General and Governor of New Jersey
Born
December 3rd, 1826 198 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 210 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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Ratmalane Sri Dharmaloka Thera

Buddhist monk and scholar, Vidyalankara founder
Born
May 28th, 1828 196 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1828, contributed significantly to the Buddhist education and revival in Sri Lanka. Established the Vidyalankara Pirivena in 1875, an important institution for monastic education that played a crucial role in the propagation of Theravada Buddhism. Advocated for the study of Pali and Buddhist philosophy, promoting intellectual engagement in monastic circles. Actively involved in social and religious reforms, influencing Buddhist practices and teachings in the region. His efforts helped shape the modern educational landscape within Sri Lankan Buddhism.

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