What Happened This Year 1900

People Who Died in 1900

Wilhelm Liebknecht

German politician and journalist
Born
March 29th, 1826 198 years ago
Died
August 7th, 1900 124 years ago — 74 years old

Became a leading figure in German socialism and played a crucial role in the formation of the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD). A prominent journalist, contributed to socialist publications and advocated for workers' rights. Engaged in politics during the 19th century, emphasizing the importance of social reform and socialism. His political career included serving in the Reichstag, where he represented socialist ideals and interests. Writings influenced socialist movements and ideas in Germany and beyond.

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Wilhelm Steinitz

Chess Player and Theoretician, World Champion
Born
1836 189 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1900 124 years ago — 64 years old

An Austrian chess player and theoretician, contributed significantly to chess theory and strategy. Dominated the chess scene in the 19th century, winning the first official World Chess Championship in 1886 against Johannes Zukertort. Established foundational principles of positional play, emphasizing the importance of pawn structure and piece activity. Authored several books on chess strategy, furthering the understanding of the game.

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Collis Potter Huntington

American railroad magnate and entrepreneur
Born
October 22nd, 1821 203 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1900 124 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent American businessman and railroad magnate, played a significant role in the development of the western United States during the 19th century. Founded the Central Pacific Railroad, which was instrumental in the construction of the First Transcontinental Railroad, connecting California with the eastern United States. Expanded business ventures into mining and shipping industries, establishing a strong economic presence in the region. During the late 1800s, worked on several other railroad projects that contributed to the expansion of the American railway system.

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José Maria de Eça de Queirós

Journalist and author of "Os Maias"
Born
November 25th, 1845 179 years ago
Died
August 16th, 1900 124 years ago — 54 years old

An influential journalist and novelist, this individual contributed significantly to Portuguese literature during the 19th century. A graduate of law, began a career in journalism, serving as an editor for various publications. The literary work "Os Maias" depicts the decline of a bourgeois family and is widely regarded as a masterpiece of Portuguese realism. Also engaged in diplomatic missions, representing Portugal in various foreign postings. The author utilized satire and social critique to explore themes of Portuguese society and culture, leaving a lasting legacy in literature.

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Kuroda Kiyotaka

Japanese general and 2nd Prime Minister
Born
October 16th, 1840 184 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1900 124 years ago — 59 years old

Kuroda Kiyotaka served as a general in the Imperial Japanese Army and held the position of the second Prime Minister of Japan. Elected to office in 1888, he led the government during a period of significant modernization and reform in Japan. He was instrumental in shaping the early political landscape following the Meiji Restoration, advocating for military expansion and administrative reform. Kuroda's tenure as Prime Minister lasted until 1889, during which he focused on developing the nation’s military infrastructure and securing Japan's status on the international stage. His leadership role contributed to the establishment of the modern Japanese state.

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Friedrich Nietzsche

Philosopher and author of Zarathustra
Born
October 15th, 1844 180 years ago
Died
August 25th, 1900 124 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent philosopher and cultural critic, contributed significantly to existentialism and nihilism. Wrote several influential works, including 'Thus Spoke Zarathustra,' 'Beyond Good and Evil,' and 'The Birth of Tragedy.' Explored concepts such as the Übermensch and the will to power. His ideas challenged traditional morality and religion, paving the way for new philosophical movements. Suffered a mental breakdown in 1889 and spent the remaining years in a state of health decline until death in 1900.

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Henry Sidgwick

Economist and philosopher
Born
May 31st, 1838 186 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1900 124 years ago — 62 years old

Contributed to utilitarian ethics and the philosophy of education. Published 'The Methods of Ethics' in 1874, which explored ethical theory and rationality. Founded the first women's college in Cambridge, contributing to the advancement of women's education. Served as a prominent figure in discussions on morality and economics.

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William Marsh Rice

Businessman and founder of Rice University
Born
1816 209 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1900 124 years ago — 84 years old

A businessman established Rice University in Houston, Texas, through a significant endowment. This institution began as a private university and has grown to become a leading research university in the United States. Contributions included funding for various educational initiatives, shaping the academic landscape in the region. The will created in 1891 directed funds for the institution after the individual's death.

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Samuel Fenton Cary

American lawyer and politician
Born
February 18th, 1814 211 years ago
Died
September 29th, 1900 124 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1814, a prominent lawyer and politician engaged in the anti-slavery movement. Served in the U.S. House of Representatives from Ohio during the 37th Congress. Advocated for civil rights and was involved in various reform movements. Played a significant role in the establishment of the Southern District of Ohio's court system. Elected as a judge of the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas. Contributed to the development of legal frameworks supportive of American democracy and individual rights.

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