What Happened This Year 1898

People Who Died in 1898

Theodor Fontane

German author and poet of novels
Born
December 30th, 1819 205 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1898 126 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1819, a prominent German author and poet emerged as a significant literary figure in the 19th century. Active in various literary circles, this writer focused on novel writing, creating a specific genre of literature that combined realism and psychological insight. The most notable works include 'Effi Briest' and 'Der Stechlin', which reflect social issues and human emotions in the context of German society. Through detailed character studies and immersive storytelling, a substantial contribution to German literature was made, influencing future generations of writers.

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Thomas Joseph Byrnes

Politician, 12th Premier of Queensland
Born
November 11th, 1860 164 years ago
Died
September 27th, 1898 126 years ago — 37 years old

Significant figure within Queensland politics, served as the 12th Premier of Queensland from 1898 to 1904. Played a vital role in advancing policies during the early 20th century. Led the Labor Party in Queensland, influencing various legislative changes. Contributed to social reforms aimed at improving labor rights and conditions for workers.

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Thomas F. Bayard

American politician and diplomat
Born
1828 197 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1898 126 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a lawyer, politician, and diplomat in the United States. Represented Delaware in the U.S. Senate from 1869 to 1885. Held the position of Secretary of State under President Grover Cleveland from 1885 to 1889. Contributed to major diplomatic efforts during a time of significant political change.

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Calvin Fairbank

American minister and abolitionist
Born
November 3rd, 1816 208 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1898 126 years ago — 81 years old

Contributed significantly to the abolitionist movement in the United States. Worked actively to assist escaping slaves via the Underground Railroad. Founded a church in Ohio focused on anti-slavery teachings. Imprisoned multiple times for his activism against slavery in the 19th century.

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Pierre Puvis de Chavannes

French painter and muralist
Born
December 14th, 1824 200 years ago
Died
October 24th, 1898 126 years ago — 73 years old

A significant figure in 19th-century French art, this individual primarily focused on monumental paintings. Often associated with symbolism, contributed to the decoration of prominent buildings, including the Panthéon and the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Lyon. Worked extensively on allegorical themes, creating harmonious compositions that emphasize a serene and timeless quality. His technique influenced many artists of the time and later movements.

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George Goyder

Surveyor and cartographer in Australia
Born
June 24th, 1826 198 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1898 126 years ago — 72 years old

Born in England in 1826, a prominent surveyor and cartographer in Australia contributed significantly to land surveying and mapping in the 19th century. Conducted extensive surveys in South Australia, particularly noted for the Goyder Line, a boundary indicating viable agricultural land based on rainfall patterns. Played a key role in urban planning and helped establish towns through accurate mapping. Served as the Surveyor-General of South Australia, influencing land use policies and practices.

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Sir John Fowler

English engineer and civil engineer
Born
July 15th, 1817 207 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1898 126 years ago — 81 years old

An English engineer and civil engineer contributed significantly to railway construction and engineering projects in the 19th century. Instrumental in the introduction of the deep-level underground railway system in London, which became a model for cities globally. Played a major role in the design and construction of the Metropolitan Railway, the world's first underground railway, which began operations in 1863. Also involved in the design works for numerous railway lines in Great Britain and contributed to the marketing of progressive engineering techniques.

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Pavel Tretyakov

Russian art collector and gallery founder
Born
1832 193 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1898 126 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent businessman and art collector in Russia, Tretyakov established a significant private collection of Russian art, which later became the basis for the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow. His dedication to collecting and promoting Russian artworks supported numerous artists and fostered appreciation for the country's artistic heritage. Tretyakov's collection included works from various periods, reflecting the evolution of Russian art. Upon his death, the gallery was donated to the city of Moscow, ensuring public access to the collection.

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Charbel Makhluf

Lebanese monk and recognized saint
Born
May 8th, 1828 196 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1898 126 years ago — 70 years old

Born in a small village in Lebanon, a monk dedicated life to spirituality after joining the Lebanese Maronite Order. Spent years in solitude and prayer, notably at the Monastery of St. Maroun in Annaya. Engaged in practices of asceticism, healing, and devotion, contributing to the Christian tradition in Lebanon. Passed away in 1898, with a reputation for performing miracles attributed to his intercession. Canonized as a saint in 1977 by the Catholic Church, he has become a significant figure in Maronite spirituality.

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