What Happened This Year 1898

People Who Died in 1898

Samuel Plimsoll

English merchant and politician advocating shipping safety
Born
February 10th, 1824 201 years ago
Died
1898 127 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1824, this English merchant and politician made significant contributions to maritime safety. Plimsoll advocated for safer shipping practices, culminating in the Plimsoll Line, a crucial safety marker on ships that indicates the maximum safe loading depth. His efforts followed numerous maritime disasters resulting from overloaded vessels and shaped legislative reforms in maritime law. Plimsoll became a Member of Parliament, using political influence to promote his commitments to both shipping safety and worker rights. His work led to the passing of the Merchant Shipping Act of 1876, establishing important safety regulations in the industry.

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Henry Liddell

English priest and academic author
Born
February 6th, 1811 214 years ago
Died
1898 127 years ago — 87 years old

Served as a priest in the Church of England and held the position of Dean of Christ Church, Oxford. Contributed significantly to academia as an author and compiler of various texts, including a celebrated English lexicon. The work provided essential resources for students and scholars in the fields of language and literature. Established a reputation for scholarship during a period of academic reform at Oxford.

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Lawrence Sullivan Ross

Texas Governor and Confederate General
Born
September 27th, 1838 186 years ago
Died
1898 127 years ago — 60 years old

Served as a general during the American Civil War, participating in several key battles. Later became the 19th Governor of Texas, where leadership included significant reforms in education and land policies. Ross also held various political positions, including serving as the president of Texas A&M University. His tenure was marked by efforts to improve the state's infrastructure and the economy following the war.

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Johann Jakob Balmer

Mathematician known for Balmer series
Born
May 1st, 1825 199 years ago
Died
1898 127 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed to the field of mathematics and physics. Formulated the Balmer series, which describes the spectral lines of hydrogen, establishing significant groundwork for quantum mechanics. This series provided insights into atomic structure, further impacting the study of atomic spectra and later developments in quantum theory.

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Félicien Rops

Belgian painter and illustrator of Eroticism
Born
July 7th, 1833 191 years ago
Died
1898 127 years ago — 65 years old

Born in Belgium in 1833, a prominent painter and illustrator specialized in erotic art. Early in his career, became associated with the symbolist movement, depicting themes of death and eroticism through his artwork. Created illustrations for works by notable authors, including Baudelaire's 'Les Fleurs du mal'. His paintings often featured dark, fantastical elements that pushed societal boundaries. Rops' work has been celebrated for its distinct style and ability to provoke thought regarding sexuality and morality.

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Lysander Button

American engineer and inventor
Born
September 2nd, 1810 214 years ago
Died
1898 127 years ago — 88 years old

An American engineer and inventor contributed significantly to mechanical engineering. Developed innovative designs and solutions in pumping systems. Authored several important technical papers addressing engineering challenges of the era. His contributions laid groundwork for future developments in mechanical systems and technology.

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George Bruce Malleson

Colonel and author of Indian history
Born
May 8th, 1825 199 years ago
Died
1898 127 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1825, one served as a colonel in the British Indian Army and became an influential military historian and author. One's writings contributed to the understanding of the British colonial experience in India. Major works include 'The History of the French in India' and 'The Decisive Battles of India'. Malleson's accounts often focused on the military strategies and campaigns during the British Raj, aiming to document the intricacies of colonial military conflicts.

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George Frederick Bristow

Composer and violinist
Born
December 19th, 1825 199 years ago
Died
1898 127 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1825, a prominent American violinist and composer contributed significantly to the 19th-century music scene. Bristow studied under notable figures and became known for his orchestral works, chamber music, and operas. He had a strong connection with the New York music community and held various musical roles, including directing and conducting. Bristow's compositions often reflected American themes and included influences from European styles. His opera 'Rip Van Winkle' garnered attention for its incorporation of American folklore and musical elements, while his symphonic works added to the romantic repertoire.

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George Grey

Soldier and 11th Prime Minister of New Zealand
Born
April 14th, 1812 212 years ago
Died
1898 127 years ago — 86 years old

Born in Portugal, a significant figure in the history of New Zealand, served as a soldier, explorer, and politician. Provided leadership during pivotal moments in New Zealand's early governance. Played a crucial role in the establishment of government structures and policies. His tenure as Prime Minister included negotiations with Māori chiefs and shaping colonial administration.

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