What Happened This Year 1896

People Who Died in 1896

Jubal Early

American Confederate General
Born
November 3rd, 1816 208 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1896 129 years ago — 79 years old

A Confederate general during the American Civil War, Early commanded troops in several key battles and served as a corps commander under Robert E. Lee. Early participated in the invasion of the North and fought at the Battle of Gettysburg. After the war, Early became involved in the Lost Cause movement, advocating for Virginia's perspective on the Civil War's legacy. He also wrote memoirs detailing his experiences during the conflict, contributing to historical accounts of the war.

Continue Reading

Thomas Hughes

English lawyer and politician, author of Tom Brown's School Days
Born
October 20th, 1822 202 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1896 129 years ago — 73 years old

A lawyer and politician from England, played significant roles in various educational reforms and social issues in the 19th century. Gained recognition through the publication of the novel 'Tom Brown's School Days', which illustrated the experiences of boys in a boarding school and promoted ideals of character and morality. Served as a member of Parliament for the Oxford constituency, advocating for educational improvements and social justice. Contributed to the founding of the Working Men's College in London, aimed at providing education to working-class individuals.

Continue Reading

Charilaos Trikoupis

Greek politician, Prime Minister
Born
July 11th, 1832 192 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1896 129 years ago — 63 years old

Served as the 55th Prime Minister of Greece. Focused on modernizing the Greek state and infrastructure. Implemented significant reforms in public administration and finance. Advocated for the construction of the Corinth Canal, enhancing maritime navigation. Influenced Greek politics during the late 19th century through his leadership and vision for a modern nation.

Continue Reading

Theodore Robinson

American painter known for Impressionism
Born
June 3rd, 1852 172 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1896 129 years ago — 43 years old

An American painter and academic, Robinson played a significant role in the Impressionist movement in the United States. A student of the renowned painter Jean-Baptiste-Camille Corot, he traveled extensively in France, absorbing the techniques and aesthetics of European Impressionism. His works often depicted landscapes, gardens, and figures, characterized by vibrant color and light. Robinson was instrumental in introducing Impressionism to American art, influencing a generation of artists. He exhibited widely and was associated with groups such as the Society of American Artists.

Continue Reading

Henry Parkes

Politician and Premier of New South Wales
Born
May 27th, 1815 209 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1896 129 years ago — 80 years old

A businessman and politician, served as the 7th Premier of New South Wales, holding office multiple times during the late 19th century. Instrumental in the movement for the federation of Australia, contributing significantly to the establishment of the Commonwealth of Australia. Advocated for social reforms and the expansion of public education. Positioned as a key figure in Australian politics, particularly in New South Wales.

Continue Reading

Silas Adams

American colonel and politician
Born
February 9th, 1839 186 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1896 128 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1839, a colonel during the American Civil War, contributed significantly to military operations. After the war, transitioned into law and politics, serving as a member of the Michigan State Senate. Played a vital role in shaping local governance and policies while advocating for civic issues. Engaged in various community initiatives and maintained an active presence in post-war reconstruction efforts.

Continue Reading

H. H. Holmes

American serial killer and con artist
Born
1861 164 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1896 128 years ago — 35 years old

A figure in American criminal history, operated in the late 19th century. Established a hotel in Chicago, later referred to as the 'Murder Castle', where multiple murders occurred. Arrested in connection with numerous disappearances, leading to a sensational trial that captivated the public. Convicted of one murder in 1894, despite being suspected of many others. Executed by hanging in 1896.

Continue Reading

Clara Schumann

Pianist and composer with notable concertos
Born
September 13th, 1819 205 years ago
Died
May 20th, 1896 128 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent pianist and composer, she gained recognition during the 19th century for virtuosic piano performances and innovative compositions. As a child prodigy, she began performing publicly at the age of nine, showcasing exceptional talent. In addition to a successful career as a performer, she composed several works for piano, chamber music, and songs. Schumann was one of the first women to make a significant impact on the concert stage and often collaborated with leading musicians of her time. She was also instrumental in promoting the works of her husband, Robert Schumann, and Johannes Brahms. Throughout her life, she upheld a substantial presence in the music world, inspiring future generations of musicians.

Continue Reading

Aleksandr Stoletov

Russian physicist known for radiation work
Born
August 10th, 1839 185 years ago
Died
May 27th, 1896 128 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent physicist and academic specialized in the field of photoelectricity. Conducted pioneering research on discharges in gases and discovered the photoelectric effect, a phenomenon where electrons are emitted from a material upon exposure to light. Contributed to the development of the science of thermoelectricity and made advancements in studying magnetism. Successfully developed apparatus for observing electrical phenomena and cultivated a comprehensive understanding of optoelectronics. His work laid foundational principles in both physics and engineering.

Continue Reading