What Happened This Year 1781

Born in 1781

Friedrich von Berchtold

Bohemian physician and botanist
Born
October 25th, 1781 243 years ago
Died
1876 149 years ago — 95 years old

A physician and botanist focused on the study of plants, contributing significantly to botany in the 19th century. Conducted extensive research in the field of natural history. Published various works that detailed findings on plant species, particularly from the regions of Central Europe. Fostered a greater understanding of plant classifications and ecological relationships.

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Karl Friedrich Eichhorn

German academic and jurist specializing in law
Born
November 20th, 1781 243 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1854 170 years ago — 72 years old

Educated in law, significantly contributed to legal scholarship and public law. Served as a professor and focused on constitutional law and administrative law. Authored several influential texts on legal principles and methodologies. His works helped shape legal education and practice in Germany during the 19th century.

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Bartolomeo Pinelli

Italian illustrator and engraver
Born
November 20th, 1781 243 years ago
Died
1835 190 years ago — 54 years old

An Italian illustrator and engraver contributed significantly to printmaking in the 19th century. Active during the Romantic period, produced more than 200 prints, many depicting Roman life and traditional themes. He collaborated with various publishers and artists, enhancing the visual narrative of his era through detailed illustrations. His works are characterized by their dynamic composition and lively characters, capturing the spirit of everyday life. He engaged in drawings for children's books and created works that celebrated Italian culture. Today, his legacy endures in art collections across Europe.

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Andrés Bello

Venezuelan poet and philosopher
Born
November 29th, 1781 243 years ago
Died
1865 160 years ago — 84 years old

Born in Venezuela, a prominent poet and philosopher emerged during the early 19th century. His work in linguistics and education shaped the intellectual landscape of Latin America. Bello founded the Universidad Central de Venezuela and served as its first rector. He published the 'Gramática de la lengua castellana' which became a critical reference for Spanish language studies. His literary contributions include notable works of poetry, essays, and literary criticism, reflecting the cultural and philosophical currents of his time.

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Alexander Berry

Scottish surgeon and explorer
Born
November 30th, 1781 243 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 92 years old

Born in 1781, a Scottish surgeon and explorer settled in Australia in the early 19th century. Engaged in medical practice and established a successful career as a merchant. Participated in expeditions that contributed to the mapping and exploration of New South Wales. Instrumental in the establishment of agricultural settlements along the southern coast. His contributions to the community included involvement in land development and the promotion of agriculture.

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David Brewster

Physicist and inventor of the polariscope
Born
December 11th, 1781 243 years ago
Died
1868 157 years ago — 87 years old

Contributions included significant work in optics and the invention of the first practical polariscope. Brewster made advancements in the study of light and polarization. He served as the first principal of the Edinburgh School of Arts and was involved in various scientific societies. Brewster published numerous papers and authored the book 'The Optics of the Microscope'. His research extended into the realms of geology, and he was a promoter of the study of the Scottish landscape.

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Tom Cribb

English heavyweight boxing champion
Born
1781 244 years ago
Died
May 11th, 1848 176 years ago — 67 years old

Competed in the early 19th century as a heavyweight boxer. Gained prominence in the sport through numerous victories, including the prestigious title match in 1810 against Tom Molyneaux. Retired from boxing with an impressive record and became a notable figure in the development of boxing regulations and practices. Opened a public house in London after retirement, which acted as a gathering spot for boxing enthusiasts.

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Kikuchi Yōsai

Japanese painter of Edo period landscapes
Born
1781 244 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1878 146 years ago — 97 years old

Active during the late Edo period, this painter specialized in traditional Japanese art, particularly ukiyo-e. Influenced by both classical and contemporary styles, contributions included detailed landscapes and portraits. The artist's work frequently showcased scenes from nature and elements of Japanese culture, reflecting the aesthetics of the time. Yōsai's techniques combined vibrant colors with fine brushwork, gaining recognition in artistic circles of the period. The painter's legacy endures through various collections of works housed in museums and galleries across Japan.

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Sanité Bélair

Haitian freedom fighter and leader
Born
1781 244 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1802 222 years ago — 21 years old

Served as a prominent leader during the Haitian Revolution, playing a significant role in the fight for independence from French colonial rule. Joined Revolt in 1791 and actively contributed to military operations. Known for exceptional leadership skills and strategic planning in battles. Ultimately executed by colonial forces in 1802 for her commitment to the liberation cause.

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