What Happened This Year 1899

People Who Died in 1899

Ernest Chausson

French composer of classical music
Born
January 20th, 1855 170 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1899 125 years ago — 44 years old

Chausson studied at the Paris Conservatory under prominent teachers, including Jules Massenet. His compositions, characterized by rich harmonies and lyrical melodies, contributed significantly to French music in the late 19th century. Major works include the opera 'Le Roi Arthus' and the orchestral piece 'Poème'. His style reflects a blend of impressionistic and late Romantic influences, often incorporating poetic themes. Chausson's life was cut short by a tragic accident at the age of 44, but his music continues to be performed and celebrated.

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Horatio Alger

American novelist of rags-to-riches tales
Born
January 13th, 1832 193 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1899 125 years ago — 67 years old

A 19th-century novelist and journalist, Alger wrote extensively about the theme of self-made success, primarily through stories featuring young boys overcoming adversity. Alger's work reflected the values of American society during the Gilded Age, emphasizing hard work, honesty, and perseverance. He published more than 100 novels that depicted the rise of impoverished youths to middle-class status. Many of these stories were serialized and published in magazines before being released as books. Alger's narratives were instrumental in shaping the American dream concept, where determination and morality lead to success.

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Robert G. Ingersoll

American soldier and politician
Born
August 11th, 1833 191 years ago
Died
July 21st, 1899 125 years ago — 65 years old

Born on August 11, 1833, one served as a Union Army officer during the American Civil War. Later transitioned into a legal career, establishing a reputation as a prominent lawyer. Engaged in politics, one was elected to the Illinois legislature as a Republican. Advocated for secularism and free thought, earning recognition for speeches supporting civil liberties and religious freedom. Involved in the development of the modern agnostic movement, one emphasized reason and skepticism in public discourse.

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Ulises Heureaux

President of the Dominican Republic
Born
1845 180 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1899 125 years ago — 54 years old

Served as the 22nd, 26th, and 27th President of the Dominican Republic, holding office during the late 19th century. His administration witnessed significant political and military turmoil. Initially, he gained power through a coup, later securing re-election and implementing various reforms. His governance was marked by a focus on modernization, though faced opposition and unrest. His later years in office were characterized by economic challenges and increased political opposition, leading to a tumultuous end to his presidency.

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Jacob Maris

Dutch painter known for landscapes
Born
1837 188 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1899 125 years ago — 62 years old

Prominent Dutch painter associated with the Hague School, focusing on landscape painting. Active in the late 19th century, contributed to the realism movement. Noted for innovative interpretations of natural light and atmosphere within his works. Served as a professor at the Royal Academy of Art in The Hague, fostering the development of younger artists. Created works that often featured the Dutch countryside, with a particular emphasis on the sea and coastal scenes.

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Robert Bunsen

Chemist and inventor of the Bunsen burner
Born
March 30th, 1811 213 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1899 125 years ago — 88 years old

Contributions to chemistry included the development of the Bunsen burner, which became essential in laboratories worldwide. Conducted extensive research in the area of spectroscopy and discovered several new chemical elements. Served as a professor at the University of Heidelberg and significantly influenced the field of analytical chemistry through various publications and experiments.

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Charles Alfred Pillsbury

Businessman and founder of Pillsbury Company
Born
December 3rd, 1842 182 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1899 125 years ago — 56 years old

Founded the Pillsbury Company, specializing in flour milling and food products. Expanded the company significantly, introducing innovative marketing and packaging strategies. Played a key role in the development of the national brand and the distribution of flour products across the United States. Contributed to the establishment of the flour industry in Minnesota.

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Giovanni Segantini

Italian painter, creator of 'The Seasons'
Born
January 15th, 1858 167 years ago
Died
September 28th, 1899 125 years ago — 41 years old

An Italian painter, recognized for contributions to the Symbolist movement and known for the use of vibrant color and emotive subject matter. Spent significant time in the Alps, which influenced the landscapes portrayed in works. Emphasized themes of nature and the human experience, integrating symbolism and expressiveness. Some of the major paintings included 'The Seasons', which illustrates the cyclical nature of life, and 'Il Memoriale', reflecting on themes of death and spirituality. Segantini's unique approach to light and color established a noteworthy style within the late 19th-century art scene.

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William H. Webb

Shipbuilder and philanthropist
Born
June 19th, 1816 208 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1899 125 years ago — 83 years old

Became a prominent shipbuilder in the United States during the 19th century. Founded the Webb Line, which operated a fleet of passenger and cargo ships. Played a significant role in the development of shipbuilding technology and techniques. Engaged in philanthropy, contributing to various educational and charitable institutions. Was involved in the construction of notable vessels, including the clipper ship 'Wild Ranger'.

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