What Happened This Year 1790

Historical Events from This Year 1790 (View all 23)

Politics & Government

George Washington's First State of the Union Address

January 8th, 1790 235 years ago

George Washington delivered the first State of the Union address to Congress in New York City, emphasizing the importance of unity among the states. This marked the first time a president communicated directly with Congress in this manner. The address focused on various topics of national importance, including foreign relations and public welfare, setting a precedent for future addresses. Washington's words reflected his vision for the young nation, highlighting the challenges and opportunities ahead.

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Politics & Government

Division of France into 83 Départements

March 4th, 1790 235 years ago

France was restructured into 83 départements in an effort to reform governance and diminish regional loyalties linked to the nobility. This administrative change aimed to create a more uniform legal and administrative landscape throughout the country, replacing the former feudal provinces with a system that emphasized citizenship over lineage and land ownership. The change was rooted in revolutionary ideas supporting equality and centralization.

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Military & Warfare

Lambros Katsonis Loses Ships at Andros

April 7th, 1790 234 years ago

In the Battle of Andros, Greek revolutionary Lambros Katsonis faced a significant setback as he lost three ships while engaged in naval combat. This encounter marked a notable moment in the Greek struggle for independence against Ottoman rule, illustrating both the courage and the challenges faced by Greek naval leaders during this period of conflict.

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Politics & Government

Rhode Island Ratifies the Constitution

May 29th, 1790 234 years ago

Rhode Island became the last of the original Thirteen Colonies to ratify the United States Constitution through a legislative session held in Newport. By this ratification, Rhode Island joined the Union, having initially resisted the Constitution due to concerns over federal powers and the lack of a Bill of Rights. The decision emerged after intense debates and public sentiment swayed in favor of ratification following the promise of amendments to protect individual liberties.

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Exploration & Discovery

Manuel Quimper Navigates the Strait of Juan de Fuca

May 31st, 1790 234 years ago

Manuel Quimper, a Spanish explorer, navigated the waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca aboard the ship San Carlos. Tasked with mapping the coastline and establishing Spanish territorial claims, Quimper's expedition provided valuable geographic and navigational insights into the region. He explored various inlets, documented observations, and interactions with indigenous peoples during this significant venture. Quimper's efforts were part of Spain's broader strategy to assert its influence in the Pacific Northwest.

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Politics & Government

First Copyright Statute in the United States

May 31st, 1790 234 years ago

The Copyright Act of 1790 was enacted, establishing the framework for copyright law in the United States. This legislation aimed to encourage the creation of new works by granting authors and creators exclusive rights to their original works for a limited time. The Act allowed for a term of 14 years, with the possibility of renewal, thereby providing a foundation for intellectual property protection that addressed the needs of a burgeoning nation. The Act was signed into law by President George Washington.

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Born in 1790 (View all 29)

Per Daniel Amadeus Atterbom

Swedish poet and literary figure
Born
January 19th, 1790 235 years ago
Died
1855 170 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent figure in Swedish literature, contributed significantly to the Romantic movement. Served as a professor at Uppsala University, influencing a generation of writers and scholars. Authored numerous poems and essays, refining Swedish poetic language and form. Engaged with various literary circles and collaborated with other notable Romantic writers.

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Juan Álvarez

Mexican general and president (1855)
Born
January 27th, 1790 235 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1867 157 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1790, Álvarez served as a prominent military leader and political figure during a tumultuous period in Mexico's history. He played a key role in the Mexican War of Independence and later became a significant figure during the French intervention in Mexico. In 1855, he assumed the presidency following Miguel Barragán's ouster. Álvarez's presidency was marked by efforts to establish a liberal government and to alleviate ongoing political strife. His tenure was brief, lasting only several months, but he contributed to the liberal reform movement that shaped Mexico's future.

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Gideon Mantell

Paleontologist and dinosaur discoverer
Born
February 3rd, 1790 235 years ago
Died
November 10th, 1852 172 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent English scientist specialized in paleontology. Recognized for the discovery of the first valid dinosaur specimen, Iguanodon, in 1822. Contributed significantly to the understanding of prehistoric life, establishing the field of vertebrate paleontology. Authored several important works, including 'The Wonders of Geology' and 'The Fossils of the South Downs'. Conducted extensive research on fossil plants and animals, helping to establish a framework for the study of prehistoric ecosystems.

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Ludwig Emil Grimm

German painter and engraver of fairy tales
Born
March 14th, 1790 235 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1863 161 years ago — 73 years old

Led a successful career as a painter and engraver. Specialized in fairy tale illustrations, contributing artwork for the Brothers Grimm's stories. Worked in watercolor and printmaking, creating detailed and imaginative images that brought stories to life. His artistic style influenced the visual representation of folklore during the 19th century. Established a reputation for being a significant illustrator of German children's literature.

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John Tyler

10th President of the United States
Born
March 29th, 1790 234 years ago
Died
January 18th, 1862 163 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the 10th President of the United States from 1841 to 1845 after the death of William Henry Harrison. Played a key role in the annexation of Texas and was the first vice president to succeed to the presidency due to a president's death. He faced significant opposition from his own party, the Whigs, leading to conflicts over policies and party loyalty. After leaving the presidency, remained active in politics and became a supporter of the Confederacy during the Civil War.

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Manuel Blanco Encalada

Admiral and 1st President of Chile
Born
April 21st, 1790 234 years ago
Died
September 5th, 1876 148 years ago — 86 years old

This individual served as the first President of Chile from 1826 to 1827 after playing a significant role in the early government following independence from Spain. As an admiral in the Chilean Navy, he was instrumental in shaping the naval forces of the country. During the War of Independence, strict leadership and military strategies were implemented, which contributed to the eventual liberation of Chile from colonial rule. This individual had a significant role in Chilean politics and military affairs during a formative time in its history.

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People Who Died in 1790 (View all 25)

Luc Urbain de Bouëxic

French admiral and naval commander
Born
June 21st, 1712 312 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1790 235 years ago — 77 years old

Served as a prominent admiral in the French Navy during the 18th century. Participated in notable naval battles, including the Battle of fleurus, a significant engagement in the War of the Austrian Succession. Known for strategic leadership and contributions to naval tactics, which were influential in military maritime operations of the time. Held the rank of commander under King Louis XV and played a vital role in enhancing the French naval presence.

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John Landen

Mathematician known for Landen's theorem
Born
January 23rd, 1719 306 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1790 235 years ago — 70 years old

An English mathematician and theorist, contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and geometry. Formulated Landen's theorem, which concerns the transformation of integrals. Worked on various mathematical topics including the theory of elliptic integrals and the evaluation of logarithmic functions. Authored several papers that influenced later developments in mathematical analysis.

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William Cullen

Physician and chemist known for clinical thermometry
Born
April 15th, 1710 314 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1790 235 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of medicine and chemistry in the 18th century. Developed a systematic approach to clinical observation and introduced methods for measuring body temperature. Established the first medical school at the University of Edinburgh, which became a model for medical education. Published influential works, including 'First Lines of the Practice of Physic', which detailed clinical treatments. His teachings influenced a generation of physicians.

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Joseph II

Holy Roman Emperor and Reformer
Born
March 13th, 1741 284 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1790 235 years ago — 48 years old

Ruled as Holy Roman Emperor from 1765 until death in 1790. Engaged in numerous administrative and social reforms aimed at modernizing the empire. Advocated for religious tolerance and the reduction of the power of the Catholic Church. Implemented policies that centralized governance and promoted education. His reign was characterized by conflicts with various territories and resistance to reforms from traditional structures.

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Joshua Rowley

Admiral of the Royal Navy
Born
May 1st, 1730 294 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1790 235 years ago — 59 years old

Served as an admiral in the Royal Navy during the 18th century. Played a crucial role in naval operations, particularly in the Caribbean and the American Revolutionary War. Commanded several ships, including HMS Culloden and HMS Juno. Known for leadership in engagements against French and Spanish fleets, contributing to British naval dominance during the period.

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Cezayirli Gazi Hasan Pasha

Ottoman general and Grand Vizier
Born
1713 312 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1790 234 years ago — 77 years old

Served as a prominent Ottoman general and politician, holding the position of the 182nd Grand Vizier. Gained recognition for military campaigns against several adversaries, significantly in the Venetian Wars. Played a crucial role in Ottoman governance and military strategy during a transformative period in the Empire's history.

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