- Jan 3 John Lodge Ellerton, British classical composer (The Bridal of Triermain, Domenica), dies at 71
- Jan 9 Emperor Napoleon III of France (b. 1808)
- Jan 9 Napoleon III, Emperor of France (1852-70), dies at 64
- Jan 18 Edward George Bulwer-Lytton, English author (b. 1803)
- Jan 20 The Venerable Father Basil Anthony Marie Moreau, Founder of the Congregation of Holy Cross (b. 1799)
- Jan 28 Henry Hugo Pierson, English composer, dies at 57