Welcome to 19th Century, a blog dedicated to exploring the intriguing world of the past. In this article, we delve into the captivating dictionary of world biography in the 19th century, uncovering the lives and legacies of influential figures who shaped our society during this remarkable era. Join us on this historical journey!
The Comprehensive Dictionary of World Biography in the 19th Century: Uncovering the Stories and Influences that Shaped History
The Comprehensive Dictionary of World Biography in the 19th Century: Uncovering the Stories and Influences that Shaped History in the context of 19th century.
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What is the earliest biographical dictionary?
The earliest biographical dictionary in the context of the 19th century is generally considered to be “Biographisches Lexikon des Kaiserthums Oesterreich” (Biographical Lexicon of the Austrian Empire) published in Vienna between 1856 and 1891. This monumental work, edited by Constant von Wurzbach, aimed to document the lives and achievements of notable individuals from the Austrian empire, including politicians, military leaders, artists, scientists, and scholars.
Prior to this, there were several attempts at creating biographical dictionaries in earlier centuries, but they were often restricted to specific professions or regions. The 19th century saw a rise in the popularity of comprehensive biographical dictionaries that aimed to cover a wide range of individuals from various fields.
The “Biographisches Lexikon des Kaiserthums Oesterreich” set a new standard for biographical dictionaries with its exhaustive coverage and detailed entries. It served as an important reference work for historians, researchers, and others interested in the prominent figures of the Austrian empire during the 19th century.
What are the three types of biographical dictionary?
In the context of the 19th century, there were three main types of biographical dictionaries that emerged:
1. General Biographical Dictionaries: These dictionaries aimed to provide comprehensive information about notable individuals across various fields and professions. They covered a wide range of subjects, including politicians, scientists, artists, writers, and other influential figures. Examples of such dictionaries include “A Universal Biography” edited by John Lemprière and “The Dictionary of National Biography” edited by Leslie Stephen and Sidney Lee.
2. Occupational Biographical Dictionaries: These dictionaries focused on individuals within specific professions or occupations. They provided detailed information about the lives and achievements of people belonging to a particular field, such as medicine, law, engineering, or the clergy. Notable examples include “A Dictionary of Music and Musicians” edited by George Grove and “A Dictionary of Artists of the English School” edited by Samuel Redgrave.
3. Regional/Local Biographical Dictionaries: These dictionaries concentrated on individuals from specific regions or localities. They aimed to document the lives and contributions of individuals connected to a particular place, such as a city, county, or state. These dictionaries often included individuals who may not have been widely known on a national or international scale but had significant local impact. Examples of regional biographical dictionaries include “Biographical History of Massachusetts” by Samuel Gardner Drake and “Dictionary of North Carolina Biography” edited by William S. Powell.
In summary, the three primary types of biographical dictionaries during the 19th century were general biographical dictionaries, occupational biographical dictionaries, and regional/local biographical dictionaries. Each type served a distinct purpose in cataloging and documenting the lives of notable individuals from different perspectives.
What is the Concise Dictionary of National Biography covering from earliest times to 1985?
The Concise Dictionary of National Biography is a reference work that covers individuals from all walks of life who have shaped British history and culture from earliest times to 1985. It provides concise biographical entries of notable figures, including politicians, artists, scientists, writers, and more, who played significant roles in shaping the 19th century and beyond. The dictionary offers valuable insights into their lives, achievements, and contributions, serving as a comprehensive resource for researchers, scholars, and individuals interested in understanding the influential figures of the past.
Who authored the Encyclopedia of World Biography?
The Encyclopedia of World Biography was authored by Walter G. Lagrand in the 19th century.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are some notable figures that are included in the “Dictionary of World Biography: The 19th Century”?
Some notable figures included in the “Dictionary of World Biography: The 19th Century” are:
1. Napoleon Bonaparte: French military and political leader who rose to prominence during the French Revolution and became Emperor of the French.
2. Abraham Lincoln: American politician and lawyer who served as the 16th President of the United States, leading the country through its Civil War and played a crucial role in the abolition of slavery.
3. Queen Victoria: The monarch of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland from 1837 until her death in 1901, she reigned during a period of immense cultural, political, and industrial change known as the Victorian era.
4. Charles Darwin: English naturalist and biologist whose theories on evolution by natural selection revolutionized the field of biology and had a significant impact on scientific thought.
5. Karl Marx: German philosopher, economist, and political theorist who co-authored “The Communist Manifesto” and wrote “Das Kapital,” outlining his theories on socialism and communism.
6. Samuel Morse: American inventor who developed the telegraph and Morse code, which revolutionized communication and paved the way for long-distance communication.
7. Florence Nightingale: English social reformer and founder of modern nursing, known for her work during the Crimean War and for laying the foundation of professional nursing.
8. Thomas Edison: American inventor and businessman who is best known for developing practical electric lighting and the phonograph, greatly influencing modern technology.
9. Louis Pasteur: French chemist and microbiologist who made significant advancements in the understanding of germs and infectious diseases, including the development of vaccines and pasteurization.
10. Susan B. Anthony: American women’s rights advocate and suffragist who played a crucial role in the women’s suffrage movement and fought for equal rights and opportunities for women.
These are just a few examples of the notable figures included in the “Dictionary of World Biography: The 19th Century”.
What criteria were used to determine which individuals were included in the “Dictionary of World Biography: The 19th Century”?
The criteria used to determine which individuals were included in the “Dictionary of World Biography: The 19th Century” are:
1. Historical Significance: Individuals who had a significant impact on global history during the 19th century were considered for inclusion. This includes figures who played key roles in political, social, cultural, economic, and scientific developments.
2. Social and Cultural Influence: People who significantly influenced their societies and cultures, either through their ideas, artistic works, or intellectual contributions, were given priority. This could include authors, artists, philosophers, and religious leaders.
3. Leadership and Political Influence: Political leaders, revolutionaries, statesmen, and diplomats who shaped the course of nations and global politics during the 19th century were included. This also includes figures who led important social or political movements.
4. Scientific and Technological Contributions: Scientists, inventors, and innovators who made remarkable advancements in science, technology, and engineering during the 19th century were considered for inclusion. This includes individuals who made groundbreaking discoveries or inventions in various fields.
5. Geographic and Cultural Diversity: The dictionary aimed to represent a diverse range of individuals from different regions and cultures around the world. Efforts were made to include individuals from a variety of countries and backgrounds.
6. Critical Acclaim: Individuals who received significant recognition, awards, or critical acclaim during their lifetime or posthumously were considered for inclusion. This includes individuals who received prestigious honors or were highly regarded by their contemporaries.
It’s important to note that these criteria were subjective and may vary depending on the specific edition and editorial decisions made by the authors and editors of the “Dictionary of World Biography: The 19th Century.”
How does the “Dictionary of World Biography: The 19th Century” provide a comprehensive look at the major events and cultural movements of the 19th century?
The “Dictionary of World Biography: The 19th Century” offers a comprehensive perspective on the major events and cultural movements that shaped the 19th century. This authoritative reference work provides detailed biographies of key individuals who played significant roles during this period, including political leaders, scientists, artists, writers, and other influential figures.
By examining the lives of these individuals, the dictionary sheds light on the broader historical context in which they operated. It explores political revolutions, social and economic changes, scientific advancements, artistic and literary movements, and other pivotal developments that defined the era. These biographies not only focus on the individuals themselves but also delve into the impact they had on their respective fields and the society at large.
Moreover, the dictionary includes entries that highlight the interconnectedness of events and movements across different regions of the world. It recognizes that the 19th century was a time of increasing globalization, colonial expansion, and cross-cultural exchange. Therefore, it presents a global perspective by featuring biographies of individuals from various countries and regions, illustrating how their actions and ideas reverberated beyond their immediate surroundings.
Additionally, each entry in the “Dictionary of World Biography: The 19th Century” is meticulously researched and written by subject matter experts, ensuring accuracy and reliability. The information presented is supported by primary sources such as letters, diaries, and official documents, providing readers with an authentic glimpse into the lives and contributions of the individuals covered.
Overall, this comprehensive dictionary serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and enthusiasts interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the major events, cultural movements, and influential individuals that shaped the 19th century.
The dictionary of world biography on the 19th century serves as a remarkable resource for gaining insights into the notable individuals who shaped this transformative period in history. Its comprehensive coverage of influential figures from various fields such as politics, literature, science, and art offers readers a deeper understanding of the events and ideas that defined the era.
With its extensive collection of biographies, the dictionary sheds light on the lives and contributions of prominent individuals like Abraham Lincoln, Charles Darwin, Jane Austen, and Victor Hugo, among countless others. The detailed entries provide valuable information about their upbringing, achievements, and impact on society, allowing readers to grasp the complex dynamics that characterized the 19th century.
Moreover, the dictionary of world biography not only highlights well-known figures but also introduces lesser-known but equally significant individuals who played vital roles in shaping history. This inclusion of diverse perspectives ensures a more holistic representation of the century, deepening our understanding of its complexities and challenges.
By exploring this meticulously curated compilation of biographies, readers can further appreciate the interconnectedness of major historical events and the profound influence of individuals on societal changes. Whether one seeks to delve into political transformations, scientific breakthroughs, or artistic movements, the dictionary offers a valuable reference point to navigate the multifaceted landscape of the 19th century.
In a world where knowledge is easily accessible yet often fragmented, the dictionary of world biography on the 19th century stands as a testament to the importance of authoritative and comprehensive resources. It serves as a valuable tool for researchers, students, and enthusiasts alike, inviting them to embark on a journey of discovery and exploration of the individuals who left an indelible mark on the 19th century.
