What Happened This Year 1898

People Who Died in 1898

Jean-Baptiste Salpointe

French-American archbishop of Santa Fe
Born
February 22nd, 1825 200 years ago
Died
July 15th, 1898 126 years ago — 73 years old

Born in France, moved to the United States and became a prominent archbishop in the Catholic Church. Played a vital role in the establishment of Catholic education in the southwestern United States. Oversaw the construction of several churches and schools in Arizona and New Mexico. Participated in the founding of the Diocese of Tucson and served as its first bishop, fostering religious and social development in the region.

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Otto von Bismarck

German politician and first Chancellor
Born
April 1st, 1815 209 years ago
Died
July 30th, 1898 126 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent statesman, played a crucial role in the unification of Germany in the 19th century. Served as the first Chancellor of the German Empire from 1871 to 1890. Launched comprehensive diplomatic strategies that led to the establishment of a German Empire through wars with Denmark, Austria, and France. The implementation of the Kulturkampf aimed to reduce the influence of the Catholic Church in political affairs. Developed a system of alliances that stabilized Europe during the late 19th century. Resigned in 1890 after a conflict with Emperor Wilhelm II, marking the end of his political career.

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Eugène Boudin

French landscape painter of seaside scenes
Born
July 12th, 1824 200 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1898 126 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent 19th-century French painter, recognized for contributions to landscape painting and seascapes. Boudin primarily painted coastal scenes, often depicting the beaches of Normandy. He was an early supporter of plein air painting, capturing natural light and atmosphere in his works. Boudin influenced the Impressionist movement, guiding younger artists in their exploration of outdoor scenes. His technique and style laid groundwork for painters such as Claude Monet. Boudin exhibited widely and received acclaim for his depictions of light and water.

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Wilford Woodruff

Religious leader, 4th President of LDS Church
Born
March 1st, 1807 218 years ago
Died
September 2nd, 1898 126 years ago — 91 years old

Served as the fourth president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1889 until death in 1898. Played a crucial role in leading the church during a period of significant change and challenge, including the transition away from polygamy. Oversaw the establishment of the church's first temple in Salt Lake City and promoted the gathering of Latter-day Saints in Utah. Compiled and published many church records, including the often-used Standard Works, which provided guidance and structure to the church's teachings.

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Sarah Emma Edmonds

Nurse and soldier during the Civil War
Born
1841 184 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1898 126 years ago — 57 years old

Born in Canada, served as a nurse and soldier during the American Civil War. Disguised as a man under the name Franklin Thompson, enlisted in the 2nd Michigan Infantry Regiment. Fought in several battles and undertook reconnaissance missions as a spy. After the war, transitioned to a career as a nurse, advocating for veterans' rights and benevolent organizations. Her contributions were recognized posthumously, and she became an important figure in discussions of women's roles in the military.

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Stéphane Mallarmé

French Symbolist poet and critic
Born
March 18th, 1842 182 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1898 126 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1842, a prominent figure in the Symbolist movement, produced poetry characterized by aspiration and abstraction. Worked as a literary critic and contributed significantly to French literature. Most recognized for the poem 'The Afternoon of a Faun', which has influenced both literature and music, particularly the ballet by Claude Debussy that was inspired by the poem. Engaged in the promotion of modern poetry, Mallarmé organized the first performance of 'The Theatre of Mr. Mallarmé', showcasing his belief in the importance of visual poetry and the performance aspect of literature.

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Empress Elisabeth of Austria

Austrian empress and reform advocate
Born
December 24th, 1837 187 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1898 126 years ago — 60 years old

Born into a Bavarian duchy, this figure married Emperor Franz Joseph I at a young age. The marriage faced numerous challenges, including political pressures and personal struggles. Known for her beauty and fashion, the empress withdrew from official duties and often traveled to escape the confines of court life. She became a patron of the arts and supported various health and educational initiatives. Her tragic assassination in 1898 by an Italian anarchist in Geneva marked the end of her life.

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William Seward Burroughs I

American businessman and inventor of adding machine
Born
January 28th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1898 126 years ago — 43 years old

An American businessman, founded the Burroughs Corporation, which became a major manufacturer of adding machines and other business equipment. Burroughs developed an early form of the adding machine and patented many innovations related to mechanical calculations. His invention contributed significantly to the automation of financial calculations in business settings. The Burroughs Corporation grew to become a large company in the field of office equipment, eventually merging with Sperry Corporation in 1986 to form Unisys.

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Ramón Emeterio Betances

Ophthalmologist and political leader
Born
April 8th, 1827 197 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1898 126 years ago — 71 years old

An ophthalmologist, journalist, and politician, contributed significantly to the healthcare and political landscape of Puerto Rico. Attended medical school in France and became an influential figure in the push for Puerto Rican autonomy. Engaged in multiple revolutionary efforts against Spanish colonial rule, advocating for the independence of Puerto Rico. Also involved in various health initiatives, focusing on public health reforms. His writings reflected the social and political concerns of the time, shaping public discourse and policy.

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