Percival Lowell, American astronomer and mathematician (d. 1916)
Percival Lowell (; March 13, 1855 – November 12, 1916) was an American businessman, author, mathematician, and astronomer who fueled speculation that there were canals on Mars, and furthered theories of a ninth planet within the Solar System. He founded the Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona, and formed the beginning of the effort that led to the discovery of Pluto 14 years after his death.
1855Mar, 13
Percival Lowell
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Events on 1855
- 14Feb
Telegraphy
Texas is linked by telegraph to the rest of the United States, with the completion of a connection between New Orleans and Marshall, Texas. - 22Feb
State College, Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania State University is founded in State College, Pennsylvania (as the Farmers' High School of Pennsylvania). - 1Jun
William Walker (filibuster)
The American adventurer William Walker conquers Nicaragua. - 4Jul
Leaves of Grass
The first edition of Walt Whitman's book of poems, Leaves of Grass, is published In Brooklyn. - 16Nov
Victoria Falls
David Livingstone becomes the first European to see the Victoria Falls in what is now Zambia-Zimbabwe.