What Happened This Year 1893

People Who Died in 1893

Ford Madox Brown

Painter and Pre-Raphaelite artist
Born
April 16th, 1821 204 years ago
Died
1893 133 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1821, a significant figure in the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, noted for contributions to Victorian art. A prominent painter, focused on narrative works that depicted social themes and historical subjects. Key paintings include 'Work', which showcases the plight of the working class, and 'The Last of England', reflecting emigration. Served as a tutor to future artists and contributed to the establishment of the Pre-Raphaelite movement, alongside contemporaries like Dante Gabriel Rossetti and John Everett Millais.

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Harriette Newell Woods Baker

Children's book writer and editor
Born
August 19th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
1893 133 years ago — 78 years old

An American editor and children's book writer contributed significantly to children's literature in the 19th century. She edited various publications, including the 'Youth's Companion,' which was instrumental in promoting educational content for young readers. Her own writings focused on moral and educational themes, with the goal of fostering a love for reading among children. Through these efforts, she played a role in shaping the content and direction of literature aimed at young audiences during her time.

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John Obadiah Westwood

Entomologist and archaeologist
Born
December 22nd, 1805 220 years ago
Died
1893 133 years ago — 88 years old

Contributed significantly to entomology, particularly in the classification of beetles. Published various works, including 'Introduction to the Study of the Coleoptera', which provided a foundational understanding of beetle taxonomy. In archaeology, worked on excavations and studies of ancient artifacts, contributing to the understanding of historical contexts. Held the position of the first Keeper of Entomology at the Ashmolean Museum, influencing the study of insects in the UK.

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Heinrich Göbel

German-American mechanic and engineer
Born
April 20th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
1893 133 years ago — 75 years old

Born in Germany, a mechanic and engineer emigrated to the United States in the mid-19th century. Contributed to the development of light bulbs. Patented a carbon filament light bulb in the 1850s, predating Thomas Edison's more famous version. Engaged in various mechanical projects and inventions during his career in America.

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John Rae

Scottish physician and Arctic explorer
Born
September 30th, 1813 212 years ago
Died
1893 133 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1813, a Scottish physician explored the Canadian Arctic extensively. Exploration efforts included the first overland journey from the Hudson Bay to the Arctic Ocean. His expeditions provided significant insights into the geography and cultures of the region. Rae made important contributions to the search for the lost Franklin expedition, gathering crucial information about the conditions and fates of the crew members. Targeted exploration of the Boothia Peninsula and neighboring areas further expanded understanding of the Arctic territories. Later, Rae's findings influenced subsequent Arctic exploration and mapped new territories.

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Louise von François

German author of historical novels
Born
June 27th, 1817 208 years ago
Died
1893 133 years ago — 76 years old

Born in Germany, a prolific author contributed significantly to literature in the 19th century. The works often explored themes of social issues and historical events. Associated with the literary movement of realism, produced a range of novels that reflect the societal norms and struggles of the time. One of the standout works included 'Sophie', which delves into the life of a woman facing personal and societal challenges. The writings received recognition for their depth and commentaries on contemporary society, earning a place in German literary history.

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Benjamin Butler

American general and politician
Born
November 5th, 1818 207 years ago
Died
1893 133 years ago — 75 years old

A significant figure in the American Civil War and Reconstruction era. Served as a Union general and achieved the rank of Major General. Elected as the 33rd Governor of Massachusetts, held office from 1883 to 1884. Advocated for civil rights and was involved in various political controversies. Practiced law after his military career and was active in politics for several decades.

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William H. Illingworth

Photographer known for landscapes
Born
September 20th, 1844 181 years ago
Died
1893 133 years ago — 49 years old

Born in England, a photographer became prominent in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Specializing in landscape photography, his works captured the natural beauty of America, particularly the western regions. Illingworth contributed to the photographic documentation of national parks and wilderness areas. His techniques and compositions influenced the field of outdoor photography and helped establish standards in the genre. He also published a number of his photographs, many of which featured the dramatic landscapes of California and the Sierra Nevada. His images were characterized by keen attention to light and shadow, showcasing the grandeur of the American wilderness.

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Alexander Kaufmann

German poet and educator
Born
May 14th, 1817 208 years ago
Died
1893 133 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1817, this figure contributed significantly to German literature and education. Kaufmann's works encompassed various genres, highlighting his prowess as a poet. His educational endeavors focused on reforming teaching methodologies and promoting a deeper understanding of literature among students. Throughout his career, he published several poetry collections that reflected the cultural and philosophical currents of his time. Kaufmann's influence extended beyond the literary sphere, impacting generations of learners and educators.

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