What Happened This Year 1888

People Who Died in 1888

Domingo Faustino Sarmiento

Argentinian politician and journalist
Born
February 15th, 1811 214 years ago
Died
September 11th, 1888 136 years ago — 77 years old

Sarmiento served as the 7th President of Argentina from 1868 to 1874. He was an influential educator and wrote extensively on education, promoting public schooling and modern teaching methods. His works, including 'Facundo: Civilization and Barbarism', critically examined the cultural and political landscape of Argentina. Sarmiento's tenure focused on national development, prioritizing education and infrastructure improvements.

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John Wentworth

American politician and journalist
Born
March 5th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1888 136 years ago — 73 years old

Served as the 19th Mayor of Chicago from 1857 to 1858. Worked as a journalist, contributing to the advancement of the Democratic Party and advocating for various social reforms. Engaged in political matters throughout his life, including support for the abolition of slavery. Was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives during the 1860s, where involvement in significant legislative actions contributed to the political landscape of the time.

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Nikolay Przhevalsky

Russian geographer and explorer
Born
April 12th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
November 1st, 1888 136 years ago — 49 years old

A prominent geographer and explorer, contributions to the field of geography include detailed accounts of Central Asia. Conducted multiple expeditions in the late 19th century, charting routes through regions such as the Tibetan Plateau and the Gobi Desert. Additionally, observed and documented various species of flora and fauna, contributing significantly to the understanding of the area's biodiversity. The Przewalski's horse is named in his honor, reflecting his research in zoological studies.

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Namık Kemal

Turkish journalist and playwright
Born
December 21st, 1840 184 years ago
Died
December 2nd, 1888 136 years ago — 47 years old

Born in 1840, a Turkish journalist, playwright, and activist contributed significantly to Turkish literature and nationalism. Focused on social reform through writing, emphasized freedom and justice in works. His play, 'Vatan yahut Silistre,' highlighted the importance of patriotism and played a key role in the cultural awakening in the Ottoman Empire. Engaged actively in the Young Turk movement, advocating for constitutional monarchy, and faced exile for opposition to the Sultan. Returned to Istanbul in 1908, continuing to influence political and literary spheres until his death in 1888.

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Carl Zeiss

Physicist and lens maker, created optical instruments
Born
September 11th, 1816 208 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 1888 136 years ago — 72 years old

A German physicist and lens maker developed innovative optical instruments that transformed microscopy and photography. Established a workshop in Jena, which grew into a renowned optical company. Contributed to the development of various lenses and optical devices, including the apochromatic lens and the Zeiss microscope. Collaborated with prominent scientists and furthered advancements in optical technology.

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Samson Raphael Hirsch

Rabbi and scholar of Jewish philosophy
Born
June 20th, 1808 216 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1888 136 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent rabbi and scholar in 19th-century Germany. Played a significant role in the development of Orthodox Judaism. Founded the Jewish community in Frankfurt and established a network of educational institutions. Authored numerous works on Jewish philosophy and law, advocating for a synthesis of tradition and modernity. His writings have had a lasting influence on Jewish thought and practice.

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Yakiv Holovatsky

Ukrainian historian and poet
Born
October 17th, 1814 210 years ago
Died
1888 137 years ago — 74 years old

A historian, scholar, and poet who contributed significantly to Ukrainian literature and historical narratives. Authored numerous works exploring the history and culture of Ukraine. Played a crucial role in the development of Ukrainian scholarly thought during the 19th century. Engaged in various literary and educational initiatives, promoting the Ukrainian language and heritage.

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Anna Haining Bates

Giant associated with the sideshow
Born
August 6th, 1846 178 years ago
Died
1888 137 years ago — 42 years old

Born in Canada, a giant known for extraordinary height and appearances in sideshows and circus attractions. Gained fame for participation in various exhibitions across North America and Europe. Paired with another giant, became a popular attraction in P.T. Barnum's circus. Fostered public curiosity about physical anomalies during the 19th century, showcasing the uniqueness of human variation. Established a life in the United States, embracing both public performance and private life.

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Charles Cros

French poet and author of 'La Pokérade'
Born
October 1st, 1842 182 years ago
Died
1888 137 years ago — 46 years old

A prominent figure in 19th-century French literature, this individual was a poet and author whose works often explored the interplay of art and technology. The creation of 'La Pokérade' showcased innovative literary techniques reflecting the era's fascination with communication and expression. Engaging in discussions on visual arts, the individual also contributed to the conceptual foundation of modern audio recording technologies. Many of the writings featured themes of surrealism and a unique understanding of the human experience during a time of significant societal change. This person's legacy includes a lasting influence on poetry and literature in France, as well as recognition in the fields of audio advancements.

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