What Happened This Year 1761

Born in 1761

William Joseph Chaminade

Founder of the Society of Mary
Born
April 8th, 1761 263 years ago
Died
1850 175 years ago — 89 years old

A French priest established the Society of Mary in 1817, aiming to promote the Catholic faith and education. Chaminade dedicated his efforts to the spiritual formation of young people and the establishment of educational institutions. The society grew, contributing to the development of Catholic education in various countries. His work focused on strengthening the faith among laypeople and integrating educational efforts with religious life. His legacy includes the establishment of numerous schools and the propagation of Marian spirituality.

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Marie Harel

French cheesemaker known for Camembert
Born
April 28th, 1761 263 years ago
Died
1844 181 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent cheesemaker, developed the recipe for Camembert cheese in the late 18th century. The cheese gained popularity and became a staple of French cuisine. Established a business that produced this variety of cheese, leading to widespread recognition. The traditional method of making Camembert has been preserved and continues to influence cheesemaking in the region.

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August von Kotzebue

German playwright and author
Born
May 3rd, 1761 263 years ago
Died
1819 206 years ago — 58 years old

A playwright and author from Germany, contributed significantly to the development of early 19th-century theatre. Works included comedies and dramas that were popular in the Romantic era. Authored over 200 plays, many of which were translated into multiple languages and performed across Europe. His writing style influenced various authors and dramatists, and he explored themes of love, morality, and social issues.

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Samuel Dexter

American lawyer and politician
Born
May 14th, 1761 263 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1816 208 years ago — 54 years old

Started a career as a lawyer in Massachusetts. Served as the 4th United States Secretary of War from 1813 to 1814, managing military affairs during the War of 1812. Later served as the 3rd United States Secretary of the Treasury from 1814 to 1815, overseeing national financial policies during a challenging economic period.

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John Rennie the Elder

Scottish engineer, designed bridges
Born
June 7th, 1761 263 years ago
Died
1821 204 years ago — 60 years old

An engineer from Scotland, focused on civil engineering and architecture. Designed several significant bridges, improving transportation infrastructure. Developed the Thames Tunnel, contributing to significant advancements in engineering techniques. Established a reputation as a leading figure in the engineering field during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

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Antonín Vranický

Czech violinist and composer
Born
June 13th, 1761 263 years ago
Died
1820 205 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1761, a prominent Czech violinist and composer of the classical era. Vranický studied under notable instructors and contributed significantly to the repertoire for violin and orchestra. His compositions include concertos and chamber music, which were performed in various venues across Europe. Vranický also worked as a conductor and teacher, influencing the next generation of musicians. His works reflect the classical style of the time and continue to be recognized in classical music circles.

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Jacob Hübner

Entomologist and author of Lepidoptera works
Born
June 20th, 1761 263 years ago
Died
1826 199 years ago — 65 years old

Contributions to entomology included extensive research on Lepidoptera, the order of insects that includes butterflies and moths. Authored numerous works that documented various species, enhancing the understanding of insect taxonomy and classification. Established a systematic approach to the study of butterflies, which served as a reference for future entomologists. His published works significantly advanced the field of entomological science during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

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Yevstigney Fomin

Russian pianist and composer
Born
August 16th, 1761 263 years ago
Died
1800 225 years ago — 39 years old

Born in 1761, a prominent figure in Russian classical music. Fomin's compositions contributed significantly to the repertoire of piano music during the early 19th century. He served as a professor at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory, influencing the education of future musicians. His works include piano sonatas and chamber music, reflecting the transitional style between Classical and Romantic music. Fomin's contributions established him as an important composer and educator in Russian musical history.

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Antoine Barnave

French politician and orator
Born
September 21st, 1761 263 years ago
Died
1793 232 years ago — 32 years old

Born in 1761, a prominent politician and orator during the French Revolution. Initially a supporter of the Constitutional Assembly, played a key role in the early stages of the revolution. Advocated for constitutional monarchy and sought to appease various factions within the revolutionary movement. Engaged in significant debates that influenced the direction of revolutionary policy. Eventually arrested during the Reign of Terror for opposing radical measures, faced execution in 1793. His political writings and efforts contributed to shaping the revolutionary discourse of the era.

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