What Happened This Year 1887

People Who Died in 1887

Emma Lazarus

Poet and educator, wrote 'The New Colossus'
Born
July 22nd, 1849 175 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1887 137 years ago — 38 years old

A poet and educator, contributed significantly to American literature and Jewish identity in the United States during the late 19th century. Best remembered for the poem 'The New Colossus', which is inscribed on a plaque at the Statue of Liberty, celebrating immigration and freedom. Lazarus was an advocate for Jewish causes, particularly in response to antisemitism and the plight of Jews in Eastern Europe. In addition to poetry, worked to promote the arts and education within the Jewish community.

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Eliza R. Snow

American poet and songwriter.
Born
1804 221 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1887 137 years ago — 83 years old

Eliza R. Snow composed numerous hymns and poems that became integral to the Latter-day Saint movement. A prominent figure in early Utah settlement, she played a critical role in establishing women's organizations within the community. Snow served as the first president of the Relief Society, fostering a spirit of charity and service among its members. Her literary works, including the hymn "O My Father," contributed significantly to the corpus of Latter-day Saint music and culture. Besides her contributions to poetry and song, she engaged in various social and educational initiatives that influenced the burgeoning community.

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Dorothea Dix

American nurse and mental health advocate
Born
April 4th, 1802 222 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1802, an American nurse dedicated efforts to improve the treatment of the mentally ill. Conducted extensive investigations into the conditions of mental asylums across the United States during the 1840s. Her findings led to significant reforms in mental health care and the establishment of several hospitals dedicated to the care of the mentally ill. Instrumental in raising awareness about mental health issues and advocating for humane treatment.

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Horace Abbott

American businessman and banker
Born
July 29th, 1806 218 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 81 years old

Established a successful career in finance during the 19th century. Played a significant role in banking and investment, contributing to the economic development of the period. Involved in various business enterprises, including the founding of banks that served the growing needs of commerce and industry. Influenced the banking sector through strategic investments and management practices.

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Friedrich Theodor Vischer

German author and playwright of 'Aesthetics'
Born
June 30th, 1807 217 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 80 years old

An author, poet, and playwright, contributed significantly to German literature in the 19th century. Early in life, Vischer studied philosophy and aesthetics, which influenced his writing style. Vischer's most notable work, 'Aesthetik', addressed various aspects of art and beauty, reflecting a deep intellectual engagement with the subject. Throughout his career, he wrote numerous plays, essays, and literary critiques that showcased his literary prowess. He was also involved in academia, serving as a professor and engaging in philosophical discussions. His works are characterized by a blend of philosophical inquiry and aesthetic exploration.

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Johann Georg Baiter

Swiss philologist and scholar
Born
May 31st, 1801 223 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 86 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of philology. Published works on historical linguistics and French grammar. Engaged in critical studies of ancient texts, enhancing understanding of classical languages. Fostered academic discourse through participation in scholarly societies. Influenced the development of modern linguistic analysis.

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Justin Holland

Guitarist and music educator
Born
July 26th, 1819 205 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 68 years old

A significant figure in American music, contributed extensively to guitar pedagogy and performance. Holland published several instructional materials for guitarists, which were influential in the development of guitar education. He was the first African American to be recognized as a noteworthy guitarist in the United States. Holland also performed and composed works that showcased the guitar's versatility and importance in American music.

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James Buchanan Eads

Engineer and designer of Eads Bridge
Born
May 23rd, 1820 204 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 67 years old

An American engineer, significant contributions included the design and construction of the Eads Bridge, completed in 1874, which spanned the Mississippi River at St. Louis. Eads also played a crucial role in developing steam-powered ironclad warships during the Civil War and worked on various other engineering projects, focusing on river navigation and flood control. His innovations in engineering set new standards in the field.

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William B. Washburn

American politician, 28th Governor of Massachusetts
Born
January 31st, 1820 205 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the 28th Governor of Massachusetts from 1880 to 1881. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives as a Republican, serving from 1873 to 1875. Had a background in business and banking prior to entering politics, which influenced fiscal policies during his governorship. Took part in various political reforms and supported education initiatives.

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