What Happened This Year 1885

People Who Died in 1885

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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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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Queen Emma of Hawaii

Monarch of Hawaii, founded Queen's Hospital
Born
January 2nd, 1836 189 years ago
Died
1885 140 years ago — 49 years old

Born in 1836, a Hawaiian queen and the wife of King Kamehameha IV, played a significant role in the social and political landscape of Hawaii. Actively involved in efforts to improve healthcare, established the Queen's Hospital in 1859 to provide medical care to the people of Hawaii. Also supported education initiatives, focusing on access to quality education for Native Hawaiians. Engaged in various cultural and political activities to promote Hawaiian interests during a time of significant change.

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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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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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Benjamin Russell

American painter and educator
Born
October 16th, 1804 221 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 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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