What Happened This Year 1897

People Who Died in 1897

Jacob Burckhardt

Historian of Renaissance culture
Born
May 25th, 1818 206 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1897 127 years ago — 79 years old

An influential historian and academic specialized in cultural history, Burckhardt's work laid the foundation for modern historiography of the Renaissance. His seminal book, 'The Civilization of the Renaissance in Italy,' published in 1860, examined the social and cultural aspects of the era, emphasizing the importance of individualism and the role of art and culture in shaping society. Burckhardt's analyses extended beyond mere historical events, focusing on the psychological and cultural contexts of historical figures and movements. His methodologies and insights have left a lasting mark on the field of history and cultural studies.

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William Jervois

Governor of South Australia
Born
September 10th, 1821 203 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1897 127 years ago — 75 years old

Born in England, served as an engineer and politician. Held the position of the 10th Governor of South Australia from 1877 to 1883. Prior to governance, contributed to military engineering in various locations, including significant work on fortifications. Oversaw the development of infrastructure and governance frameworks during tenure in South Australia.

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Charles Lilley

Politician, 4th Premier of Queensland
Born
August 27th, 1827 197 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1897 127 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the 4th Premier of Queensland from 1868 to 1870. Contributed to the development of the colony through various reforms in land use and public education. Advocated for the establishment of the Queensland University. Played a significant role in the separation of Queensland from New South Wales.

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Thérèse of Lisieux

French nun and saint, author of 'Story of a Soul'
Born
January 2nd, 1873 152 years ago
Died
September 30th, 1897 127 years ago — 24 years old

Born in France, a significant figure in Catholicism, became a carmelite nun at a young age. Authored 'Story of a Soul', detailing a spiritual journey that emphasized simplicity and trust in God. Cannonized as a saint in 1925, recognized for contributions to spirituality and devotion in the Catholic faith. Her teachings continue to influence many in their spiritual practices.

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Alexei Savrasov

Russian painter known for landscapes
Born
May 24th, 1830 194 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1897 127 years ago — 67 years old

This individual was a prominent Russian landscape painter and a significant figure in the development of the Russian realistic school of painting. His formative years were marked by studies at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture. He gained recognition for his ability to capture the essence of the Russian countryside, reflecting its natural beauty and seasonal changes. One of the seminal works includes 'The Rooks Have Come Back', which represents the arrival of spring and has been celebrated for its atmospheric qualities and depth of emotion. Later in life, this individual served as a professor at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture, influencing a generation of artists.

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Jan Heemskerk

Dutch lawyer and Prime Minister
Born
July 30th, 1818 206 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1897 127 years ago — 79 years old

Served as the 16th and 19th Prime Minister of the Netherlands. Participated in significant political developments during the mid to late 19th century. Explored legal reforms and contributed to the establishment of municipal finances. Played a role in shaping the Dutch political landscape in the context of constitutional changes and the evolution of parliamentary democracy.

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Léon Boëllmann

French organist and composer of Suite Gothique
Born
September 25th, 1862 162 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1897 127 years ago — 35 years old

Contributed significantly to the repertoire for organ music. His work demonstrated a blend of French Romanticism with traditional liturgical styles. Composed notable pieces for organ, including the popular 'Suite Gothique', which consists of several movements inspired by the Gothic architecture of cathedrals. Served as an organist at various churches in France, balancing both performance and composition during his career.

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Alfred Kennerley

Politician, 10th Premier of Tasmania
Born
October 10th, 1810 214 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1897 127 years ago — 87 years old

An English-Australian politician served as the 10th Premier of Tasmania from 1887 to 1889. Originally from England, migrated to Australia where active involvement in politics began. Advocated for various local initiatives and reforms during tenure, shaping state policy. Contributed to the development of Tasmania's political landscape during the late 19th century, participating in numerous legislative sessions and decisions.

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George Hendric Houghton

American clergyman and theologian
Born
February 1st, 1820 205 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1897 127 years ago — 77 years old

Ordained as a clergyman, contributed significantly to theological education. Served as president of the American Baptist Missionary Union and played a crucial role in the founding of multiple colleges. Engaged in missionary work and emphasized the importance of education within the church.

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