What Happened This Year 1885

People Who Died in 1885

Maria Weston Chapman

Abolitionist and women's rights advocate
Born
July 25th, 1806 218 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1806, an influential figure in the American abolitionist movement. Played a significant role in organizing anti-slavery societies and advocating for the rights of African Americans. Edited and published the abolitionist periodical, 'Abolitionist'. Active in promoting women's rights and suffrage, contributing to the intersection of these movements during her lifetime.

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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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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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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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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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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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John Langdon Sibley

Librarian and bibliographer
Born
December 29th, 1804 220 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 81 years old

Established a significant library system in the United States, contributing to the identification and categorization of various literary works. Served as a librarian at Harvard University for several decades, where the library flourished under his management. Compiled and published a comprehensive bibliography of the American state libraries, showcasing his dedication to the preservation and accessibility of literary resources. His efforts had a lasting influence on library science and management practices.

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Ferdinand Hiller

German composer and conductor
Born
October 24th, 1811 213 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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