What Happened This Year 1786

Born in 1786

Stevenson Archer

American judge and politician
Born
October 11th, 1786 238 years ago
Died
1848 177 years ago — 62 years old

Served as a prominent figure in Maryland's legal and political landscape during the early 19th century. Held the position of a judge on the Maryland Circuit Court and contributed to various legal reforms in the state. Represented Maryland in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1831 to 1833, engaging in legislative duties and advocating for local interests.

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Philippe-Joseph Aubert de Gaspé

Canadian author and military captain
Born
October 30th, 1786 238 years ago
Died
1871 154 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1786, this individual served as a military captain and became a significant figure in Canadian literature. His most notable work, 'Les Anciens Canadiens', published in 1863, provides a vivid depiction of Canadian life in the 17th and 18th centuries, highlighting the experiences of French Canadians during a time of transformation. This work played a crucial role in the preservation of French Canadian culture and history. Throughout life, he balanced military responsibilities with his literary pursuits, contributing to the cultural landscape of Canada during his era.

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Carl Maria von Weber

German composer of romantic opera
Born
November 18th, 1786 238 years ago
Died
June 5th, 1826 198 years ago — 39 years old

A prominent German composer and conductor, contributed significantly to early Romantic opera. Developed the opera genre with the creation of works that highlighted emotional expressiveness and significant character development. Best recognized for composing 'Der Freischütz', which premiered in 1821, showcasing innovative use of orchestration and dramatic narrative. His influence on the development of romantic music grew, impacting many future composers in the genre.

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William L. Marcy

American politician and Secretary of State
Born
December 12th, 1786 238 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1857 167 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a prominent lawyer and politician in the United States during the 19th century. Held the position of the 21st Secretary of State under President James Buchanan. Enjoyed a successful career in public service, also serving as a governor and holding other significant political roles. Contributed to various legislative efforts that shaped the era.

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Pietro Raimondi

Italian composer and music theorist
Born
December 20th, 1786 238 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1853 171 years ago — 66 years old

Born on December 20, 1786, a significant figure in the development of Italian opera and music theory, focusing on the works for both voice and instruments. Contributed to the evolution of the operatic form during the 19th century. Published important theoretical texts that discussed harmony and counterpoint, influencing future generations of composers. His operas, especially those staged in the early 1800s, showcased his ability to blend lyrical melodies with dramatic narratives. Established himself as a respected music educator.

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John Catron

American lawyer and Supreme Court judge
Born
1786 239 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1865 159 years ago — 79 years old

Served as a legal practitioner and a judge in the United States. Contributed to the legal landscape as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1837 to 1865. Worked primarily in cases concerning the interpretation of the Constitution and federal law. Played a significant role during pivotal legal decisions related to issues such as slavery and states' rights.

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Gregor MacGregor

Scottish soldier and explorer
Born
1786 239 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1845 179 years ago — 59 years old

A Scottish soldier and explorer, involved in British military campaigns in the early 19th century. Participated in the Peninsular War and later claimed leadership of a fictitious settlement in Venezuela called Poyais. Promoted his fabricated territory to investors and immigrants, resulting in financial losses and hardship for many. Returned to Britain to advocate for Poyais despite growing skepticism about its existence. Died in 1845.

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Michel Eugène Chevreul

French chemist, known for fat chemistry
Born
1786 239 years ago
Died
April 9th, 1889 135 years ago — 103 years old

A French chemist and academic, contributions included important research in the field of organic chemistry. Studied the chemistry of fats, which led to advances in soap and candle making. Served as a professor at the Lycée Buffon and later at the École Nationale Supérieure de Chimie de Paris. Chevreul's work on color theory influenced artists, particularly in the realm of color application in painting.

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Izidor Guzmics

Hungarian theologian and educator
Born
1786 239 years ago
Died
September 1st, 1839 185 years ago — 53 years old

A theologian and educator contributed to the advancement of theological education in Hungary. Helped to establish educational institutions that focused on higher learning and theological studies. Influenced the development of religious thought during the early 19th century, advocating for reform in education. Engaged in various theological debates, contributing scholarly work that shaped the understanding of religious texts.

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