What Happened This Year 1904

People Who Died in 1904

Hermann de Pourtalès

Swiss sailor and Olympic champion
Born
March 31st, 1847 177 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1904 120 years ago — 57 years old

Born in Switzerland, participated in sailing events during his athletic career. Competed in the 1900 Paris Olympics, where sailing was included for the first time. Achieved significant success, winning a gold medal in the 1 to 2 ton sailing class. Dedicated to the sport, contributed to the growth of competitive sailing in Switzerland, particularly in yacht racing.

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David Bratton

American water polo player
Born
1869 156 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 1904 120 years ago — 35 years old

A water polo player represented the United States in international competitions during the early 20th century. Competed in the 1904 St. Louis Summer Olympics, where water polo was included as an official Olympic sport. The team achieved a gold medal in the event. Active in the sport's development, contributed to its popularity in the United States during a formative period.

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William Shiels

Politician and 16th Premier of Victoria
Born
December 3rd, 1848 176 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1904 120 years ago — 56 years old

Born in Ireland and emigrated to Australia, Shiels became a prominent politician in Victoria. He served as the 16th Premier of Victoria from 1892 to 1893. His time in office was marked by efforts to improve social services and infrastructure in the region. Throughout a long political career, Shiels held various positions in the Victorian government, contributing to legislative developments in the late 19th century.

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Frederick Sandys

English painter and illustrator
Born
May 1st, 1829 195 years ago
Died
1904 121 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1829, the painter and illustrator gained recognition for his detailed and imaginative artworks, often influenced by the Pre-Raphaelite movement. Sandys studied at the Royal Academy and received training in various artistic techniques. He became known for his portraits, illustrations, and narrative paintings. His works frequently featured themes of beauty, mythology, and literature. Sandys also contributed to the famous illustrated publication 'The Cornhill Magazine'. Later in his career, he taught at the Birmingham School of Art, influencing a new generation of artists.

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Franz von Lenbach

German painter and academic
Born
December 13th, 1836 188 years ago
Died
1904 121 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent German painter and academic, recognized for contributing significantly to portraiture. Studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Munich and influenced by the classical tradition and contemporary movements. His notable works include portraits of notable figures such as Otto von Bismarck, as well as his landscape paintings. Established a successful studio in Munich and became a member of the Bavarian Academy of Fine Arts. Prominent in the art circles of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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Laura Vicuña

Chilean nun and religious figure
Born
April 5th, 1891 133 years ago
Died
1904 121 years ago — 13 years old

Born in 1891, a Chilean nun dedicated her life to religion and education within the Salesian community. She showed exceptional devotion at a young age, offering her life for the spiritual well-being of others. This commitment led to her becoming a role model for many and her beatification in 1988 by the Catholic Church. In her short life, she worked towards the betterment of her peers and exemplified deep faith and charity.

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Eadweard Muybridge

Photographer, pioneer of motion pictures
Born
April 9th, 1830 194 years ago
Died
1904 121 years ago — 74 years old

Eadweard Muybridge was an English photographer and cinematographer who significantly contributed to the development of motion pictures. Born in 1830, he is known for creating a series of photographs that depicted motion in a groundbreaking way. His work with sequential time-lapse photography laid the foundation for the future of cinema. Muybridge's most notable project involved capturing the movement of a galloping horse, using a set of cameras triggered by tripwires. This work resulted in the creation of 'The Horse in Motion' series in 1878, which demonstrated how a horse's legs move at high speed. Additionally, Muybridge developed the zoopraxiscope, an early device for projecting motion pictures.

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Aparicio Saravia

Uruguayan general and politician
Born
August 16th, 1856 168 years ago
Died
1904 121 years ago — 48 years old

Born in 1856, a prominent Uruguayan general and politician played significant roles in the internal conflicts of Uruguay during the late 19th century. Best recognized for leading the Nationalist Party during the Civil War, he advocated for the rights of the rural population. Saravia participated in multiple uprisings and was a key figure in the Revolution of 1897. His military strategies during engagements against the government showcased his leadership in the battlefield. Despite facing numerous challenges, his commitment to his cause marked his political and military career.

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George Francis Train

Businessman and railway promoter
Born
March 24th, 1829 195 years ago
Died
1904 121 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent businessman and railway promoter from the United States. Played a significant role in the expansion of railroads in the 19th century. Advocated for the development of various railway lines, including the first transcontinental railroad. Established the Pacific Railroad Company and emphasized the importance of connecting coasts through rail transport. Also engaged in various ventures that included promoting international trade. Was known for his strong belief in progress and innovation in transportation.

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