What Happened This Year 1887

People Who Died in 1887

Elme Marie Caro

Philosopher and academic specializing in ethics
Born
March 4th, 1826 199 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 61 years old

Contributed significantly to philosophical discourse in the 19th century, focusing on ethics and aesthetics. Served as a professor at the Sorbonne, influencing the study of philosophy in France. Engaged with contemporary philosophical movements and addressed various social issues through an ethical lens. Wrote extensively on the relationship between morality and human behavior, and his works remain relevant in discussions of moral philosophy.

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Alvan Clark

Astronomer and optician who constructed telescopes
Born
March 8th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 83 years old

Contributions to astronomy included the construction of some of the largest telescopes of the 19th century. Worked extensively on improving refracting telescopes, especially the design of the objective lens. Partnered with his son to establish a successful telescope-making business. Involved in the discovery of the fourth moon of Mars in 1877.

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Ferdinand Johann Wiedemann

Linguist and botanist, published many works
Born
March 30th, 1805 219 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1805, a notable figure in linguistics and botany. Conducted extensive research on various languages, particularly focusing on the Sámi languages and the grammar of Finnish. Contributed significantly to botanical studies, earning recognition for his classification and description of numerous plant species. His studies included both theoretical linguistics and practical botany, which influenced future research in these fields. Published several works that provided foundational knowledge for subsequent scholars.

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Thomas Spencer Baynes

English philosopher and critic with influential works
Born
March 24th, 1823 201 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 64 years old

Contributed significantly to philosophy and literary criticism in the 19th century. Served as a professor of logic and metaphysics at the University of St Andrews. Edited the 9th edition of the Encyclopaedia Britannica, significantly shaping its contents. Wrote extensively on Hegel and German idealism, influencing contemporary thought and education.

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