What Happened This Year 1766

Born in 1766

Dominique Jean Larrey

French military surgeon and innovator
Born
July 8th, 1766 258 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1842 182 years ago — 76 years old

A pioneering French surgeon, Larrey served as the chief surgeon for Napoleon's army during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Established the concept of triage, which prioritized medical treatment based on urgency of injuries. Developed innovative surgical techniques and mobile field hospitals, significantly improving the care for wounded soldiers on the battlefield. His contributions laid the groundwork for modern wartime medical practices. Larrey authored several medical texts and performed numerous operations under difficult conditions, showcasing his skill and commitment to his patients.

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Aaron Chorin

Hungarian rabbi and author
Born
August 3rd, 1766 258 years ago
Died
1844 181 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Hungary, a prominent rabbi and author contributed significantly to Jewish thought and literature. His writings focused on Jewish law and philosophy, blending traditional beliefs with contemporary issues. Notable works included commentaries and essays that addressed the challenges of modernity faced by Jewish communities. Driven by a commitment to education, engaged in various scholarly and communal activities to promote Jewish learning. Held a leadership position within the local Jewish community, navigating the complexities of religious and social dynamics.

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William Hyde Wollaston

English chemist and physicist
Born
August 6th, 1766 258 years ago
Died
December 22nd, 1828 196 years ago — 62 years old

Contributions to chemistry and physics included the discovery of the elements palladium and rhodium. Developed methods for refining platinum, which advanced early techniques in metallurgy. Conducted pioneering work in spectroscopy. Wrote significant scientific papers that laid foundations for future research.

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John Dalton

Chemist and physicist, developed atomic theory
Born
September 6th, 1766 258 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1844 180 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent chemist, meteorologist, and physicist contributed significantly to the understanding of atomic theory. Dalton formulated the foundational principles of modern chemistry, introducing the first comprehensive description of the atom. His work in meteorology included identifying and documenting the behavior of gases and the concept of partial pressures. He also published research on color blindness, a condition that later came to be known as Daltonism due to his own struggle with it. Dalton's pioneering research laid the groundwork for future advancements in chemistry and physics.

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Armand-Emmanuel de Vignerot du Plessis

French general and politician, Duc de Richelieu
Born
September 25th, 1766 258 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1822 202 years ago — 55 years old

Served as the 2nd Prime Minister of France during the Restoration period. Held the position of general, taking on various military responsibilities. Managed significant political changes, including the navigation of post-Napoleonic France. Engaged in revitalizing the French economy and established relationships with foreign powers.

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Emmanuel de Grouchy

French General during the Napoleonic Wars
Born
October 23rd, 1766 258 years ago
Died
May 29th, 1847 177 years ago — 80 years old

Served as a General in the French Army and was a prominent figure during the Napoleonic Wars. Participated in the battles of Austerlitz and Waterloo, where he led troops in crucial engagements. Played a significant role in the Campaign of 1814, contributing to several battles against the Sixth Coalition. His command decisions and military strategies were influential in various military operations during this period.

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Wilhelm Hisinger

Physicist and chemist in Sweden
Born
December 23rd, 1766 258 years ago
Died
1852 173 years ago — 86 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of physics and chemistry in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Conducted research on thermodynamics and mineralogy, and was involved in the study of gases and heat. Collaborated with other scientists and contributed to advancements in chemical processes and materials. Played a role in the establishment of scientific institutions in Sweden, promoting education and research in the sciences.

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Christmas Evans

Welsh Nonconformist preacher and theologian
Born
December 25th, 1766 258 years ago
Died
1838 187 years ago — 72 years old

Born on December 25, 1766, this Welsh Nonconformist preacher gained prominence in the early 19th century. Initially raised in a poor family, significant transformation occurred after conversion to Christianity. Became a preacher in the Calvinistic Methodist tradition, known for compelling preaching style and ability to draw large crowds. Played a key role in the establishment of Calvinistic Methodism in Wales. Authored several notable works reflecting theological thoughts and church practices. His sermons emphasized the importance of personal piety and social responsibility, influencing generations of preachers and laity.

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Charles Macintosh

Scottish chemist and waterproof fabric inventor
Born
December 29th, 1766 258 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1843 181 years ago — 76 years old

A Scottish chemist invented waterproof fabric in the early 19th century. This innovation stemmed from experiments with rubber and various solvents, leading to the creation of Britain’s first waterproof coat. The invention gained popularity during rainy seasons, becoming essential for outdoor workers and adventurers. The process involved coating pieces of fabric with a solution, revolutionizing the textile industry. In addition to waterproof materials, contributions to organic chemistry were significant, influencing future developments in the field.

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