What Happened This Year 1896

People Who Died in 1896

Frederic T. Greenhalge

Governor of Massachusetts
Born
July 19th, 1842 182 years ago
Died
1896 129 years ago — 54 years old

Served as the 38th Governor of Massachusetts from 1884 to 1885. Engaged in legal practice after training as a lawyer. Contributed to various legislative measures during tenure as governor, focusing on governance and public service within the state. Active in local politics and served in multiple capacities before assuming the gubernatorial role, including being a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives. His leadership led to the advancement of infrastructure and social policies in Massachusetts during a transformative period.

Continue Reading

Vicente Riva Palacio

Mexican liberal intellectual and novelist
Born
October 16th, 1832 192 years ago
Died
1896 129 years ago — 64 years old

Contributed significantly to Mexican literature and politics during the 19th century. Published novels that explored themes of liberalism and the Mexican identity. Actively participated in liberal political movements and served in various government positions. His works reflected the socio-political landscape of Mexico post-independence and addressed issues such as governance and cultural identity.

Continue Reading

Daniel Pollen

Prime Minister of New Zealand
Born
June 2nd, 1813 211 years ago
Died
1896 129 years ago — 83 years old

An Irish-New Zealand politician served as the 9th Prime Minister of New Zealand from 1865 to 1866. Pollen's tenure was noted for addressing issues arising from the New Zealand Wars and dealing with financial challenges facing the government. Pollen played a role in expanding the infrastructure of the rapidly developing nation during his time in office, which included supporting land development and facilitating immigration. His leadership came at a time of significant change and conflict in New Zealand, navigating the complexities of colonial governance.

Continue Reading

Paul-Armand Challemel-Lacour

French politician and foreign minister
Born
May 19th, 1827 197 years ago
Died
1896 129 years ago — 69 years old

Served as a French politician and academic with significant contributions to diplomacy. Held the position of Minister of Foreign Affairs during a period of political change in France. Engaged in various legislative efforts and played a role in shaping foreign policy. Participated in the development of educational reforms and contributed to academic discussions on governance and international relations.

Continue Reading

Thomas W. Knox

American journalist and author
Born
June 26th, 1835 189 years ago
Died
1896 129 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1835, this individual became a significant figure in American journalism and literature. He undertook various assignments in the United States and abroad, producing numerous articles and books. His work during the Civil War, particularly in reporting on battlefield conditions and engagements, garnered attention. He authored several notable works, including 'The Boy Travellers in the Far East', which was well-received for its detailed account of travels and exploration. His contributions to journalism were marked by an emphasis on clarity and thoroughness, informing the public about national and international issues.

Continue Reading

William Hayden English

American politician, U.S. Representative
Born
August 27th, 1822 202 years ago
Died
1896 129 years ago — 74 years old

Served as a U.S. Representative from Indiana from 1853 to 1859. Elected to the Democratic National Committee in 1860. Nominated as the Democratic vice-presidential candidate in 1880, running alongside General Winfield Scott Hancock. Had a significant role in local politics and maintained a position as a prominent figure within the Democratic Party during the 19th century.

Continue Reading

Mary Abigail Dodge

Writer and essayist, author of 'St. Elmo'
Born
March 31st, 1833 191 years ago
Died
1896 129 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1833, this American writer and essayist published under the pseudonym Gail Hamilton. A prominent literary figure of the 19th century, authored essays and books that examined social issues and conventions of the time. 'St. Elmo', published in 1866, became a widely read novel, exploring themes of love and personal growth. The work was notable for its realistic portrayal of characters and emotional depth. Contributed to various periodicals and was engaged in literary discussions that shaped public opinion on women's roles in society.

Continue Reading

Arsène Houssaye

French author and poet
Born
March 28th, 1815 209 years ago
Died
1896 129 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1815, a significant figure in French literature, produced works that combined poetic depth with literary criticism. Established a reputation through contributions to periodicals and his own publications, exploring themes of love and existence. His writing reflected the philosophical currents of the time, engaging with contemporaries and influencing future generations. Authored multiple volumes of poetry and essays that navigated the complexities of the human experience, leaving a lasting mark on the literary landscape.

Continue Reading

William Quan Judge

Occultist and theosophist, co-founder of Theosophy
Born
April 13th, 1851 173 years ago
Died
1896 129 years ago — 45 years old

An Irish occultist and theosophist, focused on the esoteric and spiritual teachings of Theosophy. Played a key role in establishing the Theosophical Society in America. Developed a significant body of writings on esoteric philosophy, including works that explored the mystical aspects of Theosophy. Emphasized the importance of spiritual evolution and the interconnectedness of all life.

Continue Reading