What Happened This Year 1788

Born in 1788

Rudolf of Austria

Austrian archduke and archbishop
Born
January 8th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
1831 194 years ago — 43 years old

An archduke of Austria and a prominent archbishop, played a significant role in the ecclesiastical landscape of the region during the 19th century. Inherited noble status and was involved in church leadership prior to the decline of the Holy Roman Empire. Contributed to various religious and social reforms within the church during his tenure. Engaged in efforts to modernize the church's approach and connect with the laity.

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William Thomas Brande

Chemist and academic, contributed to chemistry
Born
January 11th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
1866 159 years ago — 78 years old

An English chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of chemistry during the 19th century. Served as a professor at the Royal College of Chemistry in London, influencing the education of many future chemists. Authored several important texts, including 'A Manual of Chemistry,' which served as a key reference for students and professionals alike. Actively participated in scientific societies, contributing to the advancement of chemical knowledge.

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Pavel Kiselyov

Russian general and politician
Born
January 19th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1872 152 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1788, a prominent general and politician in Russia, contributed to military reforms and served in various key administrative roles. Played a significant part in the governance of several provinces and held influential positions in the military and government. A noted advocate for the establishment of local self-government in the Russian Empire, also participated in the Decembrist movement, which aimed to modernize the state structure. Cited for efforts in military policy and governance that aimed at strengthening state authority.

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William Henry Smyth

Royal Navy officer and hydrographer
Born
January 21st, 1788 237 years ago
Died
1865 160 years ago — 77 years old

A Royal Navy officer served as a hydrographer, astronomer, and numismatist. Contributed to nautical charts and the understanding of celestial navigation. Authored 'The English County Histories' and 'A Solar System'. Engaged in mapping and surveying various parts of the world, enhancing maritime safety. Had a role in the establishment of the Royal Geographical Society and contributed knowledge to the fields of astronomy and numismatics.

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Lord Byron

English poet and playwright, 'Don Juan'
Born
January 22nd, 1788 237 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1824 200 years ago — 36 years old

A leading figure in the Romantic movement, produced a body of work that resonated with themes of love, nature, and personal turmoil. Gained fame for several key poems, with 'Don Juan' being one of the most notable. Often drew upon personal experiences and historical events in works, which contributed to the intensity and emotiveness of the poetry. Involved in various controversies surrounding his lifestyle and political views, including participation in the Greek War of Independence.

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Robert Peel

British Prime Minister and politician.
Born
February 5th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1850 174 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during two non-consecutive terms. Established the Metropolitan Police Service in 1829, introducing modern policing principles. Played a significant role in the repeal of the Corn Laws in 1846. Represented Tamworth in Parliament and was a member of the Conservative Party, contributing to its formation as a key political entity.

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Carl Reichenbach

German chemist and philosopher
Born
February 12th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1869 156 years ago — 80 years old

Contributed to the fields of chemistry and philosophy, emphasizing the concept of odic force, which he proposed as a vital energy present in all living things. Developed theories on the properties of light and various organic compounds. Published works that explored the relationship between science and spirituality, influencing later esoteric movements. Engaged in extensive research on electromagnetic phenomena and its implications for understanding nature.

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Francis Ronalds

Inventor of the electric telegraph
Born
February 21st, 1788 237 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1788, a British scientist and engineer developed the first working electric telegraph. This invention laid foundational groundwork for modern communication technologies. The electric telegraph utilized electrical signals to transmit messages over distances, revolutionizing how information was shared. In recognition of significant contributions to technology and communication, received a knighthood. Ronalds engaged in various electrical experiments throughout his career, emphasizing the importance of electricity in practical applications.

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Arthur Schopenhauer

Philosopher, author of The World as Will
Born
February 22nd, 1788 237 years ago
Died
September 21st, 1860 164 years ago — 72 years old

A German philosopher, recognized for introducing the philosophy of pessimism after the Enlightenment. Developed influential ideas about metaphysics and ethics within the framework of a critical response to previous philosophies, including those of Kant and Hegel. Presented the concept that human desire leads to suffering and that art provides a means of escape from this cycle. Explored themes of will and representation in major works, particularly in the 1818 book 'The World as Will and Representation'. His philosophical writings inspired later thinkers, artists, and writers, shaping existentialism and psychoanalysis.

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