What Happened This Year 1900

People Who Died in 1900

Marthinus Nikolaas Ras

Farmer and gun-maker in South Africa
Born
January 18th, 1843 182 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1843, contributed to agriculture and firearm manufacturing in South Africa. Served as a soldier during the Boer Wars, engaging in military strategies and campaigns vital to the Boer cause. Established a reputation as a skilled gun-maker, creating arms used by various factions during conflicts. Involved in the Boer Rebellion, demonstrating military leadership and tactical knowledge throughout engagements.

Continue Reading

Charles Piazzi Smyth

Astronomer and academic, surveyed pyramids
Born
January 3rd, 1819 206 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 81 years old

An Italian-Scottish astronomer and academic, contributed significantly to the field of astronomy during the 19th century. Served as the Astronomer Royal for Scotland from 1846 to 1888. Conducted a survey of the Great Pyramid of Giza, which included a detailed analysis of its dimensions and alignment. Published numerous works, including 'Life and Work at the Great Pyramid,' promoting the study of ancient Egyptian architecture and astronomy.

Continue Reading

Ivan Aivazovsky

Armenian-Russian marine painter
Born
July 29th, 1817 208 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1817, a prominent Armenian-Russian painter specializing in marine art. Aivazovsky studied at the Saint Petersburg Academy of Arts and traveled extensively, which influenced his style. His night seascapes, featuring dramatic lighting and tumultuous waves, became a hallmark of his work. The artist produced a prolific number of paintings, with over 6,000 works attributed to him, many capturing the beauty and power of the sea. Aivazovsky's contributions to the art world earned recognition through several awards and exhibitions across Europe. His legacy remains significant in the realm of seascape painting.

Continue Reading

Alexander Cameron Sim

Pharmacist and founder of Kobe Regatta Club
Born
August 28th, 1840 185 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1840, this individual established a notable pharmacy career in Japan. As a businessman, played a pivotal role in the development of athletic activities in the Kobe region. Founded the Kobe Regatta & Athletic Club, which became a significant institution for sports and community engagement during the Meiji era, promoting sailing and other recreational activities. The club served as a gathering place for expatriates and locals, contributing to cultural exchange and sporting events in the area.

Continue Reading

Peter Waage

Norwegian chemist; Waage's law of mass action
Born
June 29th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent chemist and academic, significant contributions were made to the field of chemistry, particularly in developing the law of mass action alongside Cato Guldberg. This law articulated the relationship between the concentrations of reactants and products in a chemical reaction at equilibrium. Active in academia, held the position of professor at the University of Oslo, influencing generations of students and researchers. Published numerous papers that furthered the understanding of chemical reactions and kinetics, laying foundational work for future developments in the chemical sciences.

Continue Reading

Sims Reeves

English tenor and actor with operatic acclaim
Born
October 21st, 1821 204 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent English tenor celebrated for operatic performances, particularly in the works of Gounod and Verdi. Gained significant recognition in the Victorian era for contributions to the opera scene. Performed at notable venues including the Royal Opera House and the Coliseum. Played leading roles in productions such as 'Faust' and 'Otello'. Also had a successful career in concert performances, demonstrating a versatile vocal range and artistry.

Continue Reading

Vladimir Solovyov

Russian philosopher and poet
Born
January 28th, 1853 172 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 47 years old

A prominent figure in Russian philosophy and literature during the late 19th century. Contributed significantly to the development of spiritual and metaphysical thought. Focused on the relationship between God, humanity, and the world, promoting the idea of universal unity through love. Engaged with various philosophical traditions, integrating ideas from German idealism and Russian Orthodoxy. Wrote critical works on ethics, aesthetics, and social philosophy, often emphasizing moral and spiritual development. His poetry explored themes of faith and the human condition.

Continue Reading

Sigbjørn Obstfelder

Norwegian poet and author
Born
November 21st, 1866 159 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 34 years old

Born in Norway in 1866, this individual contributed to the literary scene with a distinct style that combined modernist elements with themes of existentialism and nature. Releasing a debut collection of poems, the work received critical acclaim and established a new voice in Norwegian literature. The poet's innovative use of imagery and form has influenced subsequent generations of writers. Later works continued to explore the complexities of human experience and emotions, solidifying a legacy as a significant figure in the literary movement of the 19th century.

Continue Reading

Joseph Louis François Bertrand

French mathematician and economist
Born
March 11th, 1822 203 years ago
Died
1900 125 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1822, this individual contributed significantly to mathematics and economics. He served as a professor of mathematics at the University of Paris and was a member of the French Academy of Sciences. Bertrand proposed several important theorems, including the Bertrand's paradox in probability theory. His work extended to contributions in economic theory and mathematical analysis, influencing future generations of mathematicians and economists. He was also active in academic circles, publishing extensively and engaging in debates on mathematical methods and economic policies.

Continue Reading