What Happened This Year 1897
People Who Died in 1897
Jacob Bunn
A prominent businessman in the 19th century, significant contributions made in the fields of banking and railroads. Played a key role in the establishment of the Illinois Central Railroad and served as a director for several railroad companies. Engaged in various business ventures that included real estate and agriculture. Actively involved in local community development and supported various civic initiatives.
Continue ReadingÉmile Levassor
An influential figure in the early automotive industry, contributed significantly to the development of the automobile. Designed the first successful automobile in France, which utilized the internal combustion engine. Established the manufacturing and marketing techniques that became standard in the automotive sector. Played a vital role in the promotion of automobile racing as a means to demonstrate automotive technology and performance.
Continue ReadingPrincess Mary Adelaide of Cambridge
Born in 1833, Princess Mary Adelaide served as a member of the British royal family. She was the daughter of George III's cousin, Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge. Her life was marked by a commitment to charitable work, particularly in relation to the welfare of the poor and sick. She took part in various philanthropic initiatives, including founding institutions focused on health and education. Her closeness with her family, especially with her cousin Queen Victoria, facilitated her engagements in royal duties while also fostering her dedication to social causes.
Continue ReadingIsaac Pitman
Born in England, this individual was a prominent linguist and educator who developed a system of shorthand writing that became widely adopted in the English-speaking world. The system, known as Pitman Shorthand, allowed for the rapid transcription of spoken words, making it invaluable for journalists, secretaries, and anyone else requiring efficient note-taking. In addition to the creation of the shorthand system, this individual published numerous works on phonetics and founded a series of educational institutions that taught these methods. The emphasis on phonetics and accessibility in education marked a significant contribution to language instruction during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingHeinrich von Stephan
A prominent figure in the international postal system, a German postman played a crucial role in founding the Universal Postal Union in 1874. This organization standardized international mail services, improving communication across borders. His tenure as the Director of the German Postal Service was marked by significant reforms, leading to the modernization of postal operations in Germany. Emphasizing the importance of efficient postal services, he advocated for international cooperation among nations to enhance mail delivery systems globally.
Continue ReadingHenry Vandyke Carter
An English anatomist and surgeon contributed significantly to medical education and anatomical illustration. Best recognized for illustrations in the renowned medical textbook, 'Gray's Anatomy', which remains a standard reference in the field of anatomy. Active as a surgeon and lecturer in anatomy, he was instrumental in advancing the understanding of human anatomy through detailed and accurate diagrams. His work has inspired countless medical professionals.
Continue ReadingCharles Boycott
Originated from England, worked as an estate manager for the Anglo-Irish landowner Lord Erne in Ireland. Faced hostility from local tenants due to high rents and harsh eviction practices. In 1880, after failing to secure a reduction in rent, the tenants engaged in a campaign of social ostracism against him. This event led to the coining of the term 'boycott', which became synonymous with nonviolent protest and economic coercion. Eventually, Boycott left Ireland following the sustained pressure from the local community. His experiences highlighted the deep tensions within Irish land ownership and tenant rights during that period.
Continue ReadingJules Bernard Luys
Contributed significantly to the field of neurology, focusing on brain anatomy and pathology. Authored multiple works on neurological conditions and their treatment. Introduced the term 'brainstem' and emphasized the importance of studying the brain's various structures. Conducted detailed research on Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders, influencing future studies in the field.
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