What Happened This Year 1786

Born in 1786

Nicholas Biddle

American banker and financier
Born
January 8th, 1786 239 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1844 181 years ago — 58 years old

Worked as the president of the Second Bank of the United States from 1822 to 1839, Biddle was influential in American banking and finance during the early 19th century. Oversaw the bank during a period of economic instability and played a key role in the rechartering efforts. Engaged in significant political conflicts, particularly with President Andrew Jackson, who opposed the bank. Biddle's leadership was marked by a strong defense of centralized banking.

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Joseph Jackson Lister

English physicist and optical pioneer
Born
January 11th, 1786 239 years ago
Died
1869 156 years ago — 83 years old

This English physicist contributed significantly to the field of optics in the 19th century. He developed the achromatic lens, which improved the quality of lenses and microscopy. This advancement played a crucial role in the development of modern microscopy. Various scientific journals and institutions recognized the importance of this work in refining optical instruments. He also published several papers detailing optical theory and lens design.

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Sir Robert Inglis

English politician and baronet
Born
January 12th, 1786 239 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1855 169 years ago — 69 years old

Served as a Member of Parliament for the University of Oxford from 1820 to 1831 and again from 1832 to 1841. Held the title of 2nd Baronet after succeeding his father. Advocated for conservative policies during his political career. Opposed the Reform Act of 1832, which aimed to expand the electorate and reform parliamentary representation. Was also involved in various charitable organizations throughout his life.

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Auguste de Montferrand

Architect, designer of Saint Isaac's Cathedral
Born
January 23rd, 1786 239 years ago
Died
1858 167 years ago — 72 years old

Born in France, worked primarily in Russia. De Montferrand's architectural career featured the design of several significant structures, including Saint Isaac's Cathedral in Saint Petersburg. The cathedral is recognized as one of the largest and most prominent religious buildings in the city, showcasing neoclassical architecture and an impressive dome. Additionally, he designed the Alexander Column, which honors Emperor Alexander I and stands in Palace Square.

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Jacques Philippe Marie Binet

Mathematician and physicist; Binet's theorem
Born
February 2nd, 1786 239 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1856 168 years ago — 70 years old

Born in France in 1786, Binet contributed significantly to mathematics, physics, and astronomy. His work in mathematics included the formulation of Binet's theorem, which provides a closed-form expression for Fibonacci numbers. Binet also conducted research in optics and the dynamics of celestial bodies, publishing numerous papers that advanced the understanding of these fields. His interest in astronomy led to the development of more precise methods for calculating planetary orbits. Throughout his career, Binet's interdisciplinary approach combined rigorous mathematical analysis with practical applications in physics and astronomy.

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Maria Pavlovna

Russian Grand Duchess and Tsarina
Born
February 16th, 1786 239 years ago
Died
1859 166 years ago — 73 years old

Born into the Russian imperial family, received an education befitting her status. Engaged in the cultural and political life of Russia. Played a significant role in court society and was involved in various charitable activities. Married Duke of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach, leading to strong ties between Russia and Germany. Had a close relationship with several prominent figures of her time, influencing both political and social landscapes. Her legacy continued through her descendants who held important royal titles across Europe.

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Wilhelm Grimm

German anthropologist and author
Born
February 24th, 1786 239 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1859 165 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed significantly to folklore and linguistics. Along with his brother, collected and published fairy tales that became classics, including 'Cinderella' and 'Hansel and Gretel'. Developed important theories in German philology and worked on the German Dictionary project. Involved in the founding of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Volkskunde, promoting the study of folklore.

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Martin W. Bates

American lawyer and politician
Born
February 24th, 1786 239 years ago
Died
1869 156 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1786, a prominent attorney and political figure contributed significantly to the legal landscape in the United States. Served as a lawmaker in various legislative capacities and was instrumental in shaping laws that impacted the governance of regions. Played a pivotal role in advocating for state rights and legal reforms that supported individual freedoms. His legal career included numerous high-profile cases that set precedents within the legal system. Through legislative efforts, he aimed to address key issues of his time.

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François Arago

Mathematician and Prime Minister of France
Born
February 26th, 1786 239 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1853 171 years ago — 67 years old

Contributed significantly to mathematics, astronomy, and physics. Served as the 25th Prime Minister of France in 1848. Instrumental in the establishment of the Paris Academy of Sciences and advocated for the use of the metric system. Played a key role in the development of photography and the discovery of polarization of light.

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