What Happened This Year 1896

People Who Died in 1896

Louis-Jules Trochu

French military leader and politician
Born
March 12th, 1815 211 years ago
Died
1896 130 years ago — 81 years old

Served as a military leader during the Franco-Prussian War and was the head of the Government of National Defense in 1870. Commanded forces during the Siege of Paris and played a significant role in military planning and organization. After the war, held various political positions but faced challenges during the political instability of the time.

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William Quan Judge

Occultist and theosophist, co-founder of Theosophy
Born
April 13th, 1851 174 years ago
Died
1896 130 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.

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Arsène Houssaye

French author and poet
Born
March 28th, 1815 210 years ago
Died
1896 130 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.

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Mary Abigail Dodge

Writer and essayist, author of 'St. Elmo'
Born
March 31st, 1833 192 years ago
Died
1896 130 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.

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João de Deus

Portuguese poet and educator
Born
March 8th, 1830 196 years ago
Died
1896 130 years ago — 66 years old

A 19th-century poet and educator, contributed significantly to Portuguese literature. Established a reputation as a prominent figure in the romantic movement. Authored notable works that reflect the themes of nature, love, and human experience. Served as a teacher, influencing many students and promoting education.

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George D. Robinson

Governor of Massachusetts
Born
January 20th, 1834 192 years ago
Died
1896 130 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the 34th Governor of Massachusetts from 1884 to 1885. Practiced law in Massachusetts and began a political career in the late 19th century. Elected to the Massachusetts Senate and later served as a State Representative. Contributed to various legal reforms during tenure as governor.

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Daniel Pollen

Prime Minister of New Zealand
Born
June 2nd, 1813 212 years ago
Died
1896 130 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.

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Carl Humann

German archaeologist and architect
Born
January 4th, 1839 187 years ago
Died
1896 130 years ago — 57 years old

An accomplished archaeologist and architect, worked primarily in the 19th century. Employed engineering skills in major archaeological sites, notably in the excavation and reconstruction of the Pergamon Altar in Berlin. Contributed significantly to the field of archaeology through meticulous documentation and publication of findings. Engaged in the exploration of ancient Greek and Roman remains, influencing future archaeological methods and scholarship.

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Ernst Curtius

German archaeologist and historian
Born
September 2nd, 1814 211 years ago
Died
1896 130 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1814, contributions to archaeology included extensive work in Greece, especially in the study of ancient sites. Served as a professor at the University of Berlin, where emphasis on classical studies flourished. Conducted significant excavations at Olympia and wrote on the history of art, contributing to the understanding of ancient Greek culture and history. His scholarly publications became essential texts in the field, enhancing knowledge of classical antiquity.

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