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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Dinah Craik

English author and poet with 'John Halifax, Gentleman'
Born
April 20th, 1826 198 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 61 years old

An English author and poet, created a significant body of work during the 19th century. 'John Halifax, Gentleman' emerged as the most celebrated novel, becoming a classic of Victorian literature. Other literary works included novels and poems that explored themes of social justice and the human experience. Also contributed to literary magazines and engaged in social discourse of the time. Her writing style combined sentimentality with keen observation, marking a distinctive voice in the literary landscape of the era.

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Ferdinand Didrichsen

Danish botanist and physicist
Born
July 3rd, 1814 210 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed to the fields of botany and physics in Denmark. Conducted significant research in plant physiology and made advancements in the understanding of plant functions. Published numerous papers that detailed findings in various botanical studies. Engaged in the exploration of the interaction between light and plant growth, which provided valuable insights into the mechanics of photosynthesis.

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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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William Babcock Hazen

American General during Civil War
Born
September 27th, 1830 194 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 57 years old

Graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1855. Fought in the American Civil War, serving as a Union general. Played a key role in the Battle of Stones River, contributing to the Union victory. After the Civil War, held various commands including overseeing the Department of the Missouri and the Department of Texas. Advocated for the reorganization of the U.S. Army's signal corps and promoted the use of telegraph in military operations. Served as a commander of the 2nd Brigade, 1st Division, IV Corps at the Battle of Chickamauga.

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