What Happened This Year 1898
People Who Died in 1898
Samuel Plimsoll
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.
Continue ReadingHenry Liddell
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.
Continue ReadingLawrence Sullivan Ross
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.
Continue ReadingJohann Jakob Balmer
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.
Continue ReadingFélicien Rops
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.
Continue ReadingLysander Button
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.
Continue ReadingGeorge Bruce Malleson
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.
Continue ReadingGeorge Frederick Bristow
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.
Continue ReadingGeorge Grey
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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