What Happened This Year 1903

People Who Died in 1903

Emma Booth-Tucker

English author and activist
Born
January 8th, 1860 165 years ago
Died
1903 122 years ago — 43 years old

An English author and evangelist, contributed significantly to the Salvation Army’s mission. Played a key role in establishing the Salvation Army in the United States and wrote extensively on spirituality and faith. Authored several books, which included insights on social issues of the time. Her works emphasized the importance of service and compassion, reflecting the ethos of the Salvation Army's efforts in communities.

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Alson Sherman

American politician, 8th Mayor of Chicago
Born
April 21st, 1811 213 years ago
Died
1903 122 years ago — 92 years old

Served as the 8th Mayor of Chicago from 1855 to 1856. Worked as a merchant before entering politics. Contributed to the early development of the city during its formative years. Oversaw municipal affairs amidst the growing population and infrastructure demands of the mid-19th century.

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James Abbott McNeill Whistler

Painter known for 'Whistler's Mother'
Born
July 11th, 1834 190 years ago
Died
1903 122 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1834, this American-English painter and illustrator played a significant role in the art world during the late 19th century. His work often emphasized color and composition over realistic representation. His most iconic piece, 'Arrangement in Grey and Black No. 1', commonly referred to as 'Whistler's Mother', gained acclaim and is recognized as a classic. Although he faced criticism throughout his career, he contributed to the development of the aesthetic movement in art and influenced modern artists through his innovative techniques and approaches to painting.

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Henry Demarest Lloyd

American journalist and political activist
Born
May 1st, 1847 177 years ago
Died
1903 122 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent journalist and political activist, this individual contributed significantly to progressive thought in America during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The focus lay on issues such as economic reform, social justice, and anti-monopolism. The work 'Wealth Against Commonwealth' highlighted the excesses of capitalism and the struggles of the working class against corporate power. Active in the Progressive Movement, this figure also engaged with various political causes, advocating for labor rights and criticizing economic inequalities.

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Malwida von Meysenbug

Writer associated with German literature
Born
October 28th, 1816 208 years ago
Died
1903 122 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1816, a prominent German writer contributed significantly to literature, focusing on themes of feminism and social criticism. Active in the 19th century, wrote essays and novels that addressed women's rights and societal issues. Friends with notable figures such as Heinrich Heine and contributed to the intellectual discourse of the era. Her major work included 'Das Geheimnis der Frauen' which explored the challenges faced by women in society. Engaged in cultural and literary circles, her writings influenced contemporaries and later generations.

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Charles Ammi Cutter

American librarian and cataloger
Born
March 14th, 1837 188 years ago
Died
1903 122 years ago — 66 years old

Significant contributions were made to the field of library science, particularly in cataloging and classification. Developed the Cutter Expansive Classification system, which provided a systematic approach to organizing library materials. Served as the librarian for the Boston Athenaeum and played a vital role in shaping modern cataloging standards. Advocated for library education and professionalism, influencing future generations of librarians.

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Pope Leo XIII

Pope and author of Rerum Novarum
Born
March 2nd, 1810 215 years ago
Died
1903 122 years ago — 93 years old

Served as the head of the Catholic Church from 1878 to 1903. Notable for significant engagement with contemporary social issues, he authored the encyclical Rerum Novarum in 1891, which addressed the rights of workers and capitalism's effects on society. Focused on the relationship between the church and modern society, and promoted the principles of social justice. Advocated for education, particularly for the clergy, to effectively address issues of the time.

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William Ernest Henley

English poet and literary critic
Born
August 23rd, 1849 175 years ago
Died
1903 122 years ago — 54 years old

Born in England, a poet and critic emerged as a significant figure in the literary landscape of the late 19th century. Renowned for the poem 'Invictus,' which expressed themes of resilience and personal strength, the work gained widespread recognition. Henley also contributed significantly to literary criticism and was involved in the promotion of several prominent authors. His friendship with Robert Louis Stevenson influenced Stevenson's writings, and he played a crucial role in the publication of the first edition of 'The New Review.' His literary contributions spanned poetry, criticism, and editorial work, leaving a lasting legacy in English literature.

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August Labitzky

Czech composer and conductor
Born
October 22nd, 1832 192 years ago
Died
1903 122 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1832, he contributed significantly to the classical music scene in the 19th century. His compositions included orchestral works, chamber music, and operas. Labitzky studied at the Prague Conservatory and later became a prominent conductor, leading various orchestras. His leadership helped elevate the performances of many ensembles, showcasing his ability to blend composition with conducting.

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