What Happened This Year 1796

Born in 1796

Princess Marie of Hesse-Kassel

Consort of Grand Duke George of Mecklenburg
Born
January 21st, 1796 229 years ago
Died
1880 145 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1796, married George, Grand Duke of Mecklenburg-Strelitz in 1818. The marriage linked prominent German noble families. Contributed to the cultural life of the duchy through patronage. Held various social events and charitable engagements during her time as Grand Duchess. Played a role in supporting local initiatives and enhancing the status of the Grand Duchy. Passed away in 1850.

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Karl Ernst Claus

Chemist and botanist specializing in organics
Born
January 22nd, 1796 229 years ago
Died
1864 161 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1796, a chemist and botanist contributed significantly to organic chemistry and the study of plants. Conducted pioneering research on the chemical properties of organic compounds. Claimed to have discovered the element vanadium in 1801, which became a significant aspect of later chemical studies. Worked extensively in academia, influencing future generations of chemists and botanists through lectures and published works. The legacy includes various contributions to the understanding of chemical processes and nature.

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William MacGillivray

Scottish ornithologist and biologist
Born
January 25th, 1796 229 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1852 172 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1796, an influential Scottish ornithologist and biologist contributed extensively to the field of ornithology. Authored significant works including 'The Modern History of the Birds of Great Britain' and was a key figure in the production of 'The Birds of Great Britain', which featured many original illustrations. In addition to ornithology, researched various aspects of natural history and worked as a professor of Natural History at Marischal College in Aberdeen.

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Abraham Emanuel Fröhlich

Swiss minister and poet
Born
February 1st, 1796 229 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1865 159 years ago — 69 years old

A Swiss minister, poet, and educator contributed significantly to literature and religious education in the 19th century. Active in various educational reforms, emphasized the importance of teaching and the integration of moral values into education. Wrote numerous poems reflecting themes of nature and spirituality, often embraced in Swiss literary circles. Served as a minister, engaging in community service and religious activities while promoting education as a transformative force in society.

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John Stevens Henslow

English botanist and geologist
Born
February 6th, 1796 229 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1861 163 years ago — 65 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of botany and geology through extensive research and education. Served as a professor at the University of Cambridge, where teachings focused on systematic botany. Played a pivotal role in the scientific community by mentoring young naturalists, including Charles Darwin. Advocated for the establishment of botanical gardens and guided explorations in natural history.

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Thomas Gregson

English-Australian politician and lawyer
Born
February 7th, 1796 229 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1874 151 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent lawyer and politician, served as the second Premier of Tasmania. Played a significant role in the early administration of the colony. Contributed to the establishment of legislative frameworks and governance structures during a pivotal time in Tasmania's development. His leadership helped shape the political landscape and addressed various issues concerning the colony's growth and prosperity.

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Philipp Franz von Siebold

German physician and botanist
Born
February 17th, 1796 229 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1886 138 years ago — 90 years old

A prominent German physician and botanist, significant contributions were made to the study of Japanese flora and fauna. Conducted extensive research during a period of Western interest in Japan, focusing on the country's plant life. Established one of the first botanical gardens dedicated to Japanese species in Europe and contributed to the understanding of Japanese medicine. Published influential works that detailed the medicinal properties of various plants, enhancing Western knowledge of Eastern botanical practices.

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Adolphe Quetelet

Belgian mathematician and social statistician
Born
February 22nd, 1796 229 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1874 151 years ago — 77 years old

A prominent figure in the development of social statistics and the study of human behavior, contributions included the establishment of the concept of 'l'homme moyen' or the average man. Utilized statistical methods to analyze social phenomena, influencing both sociology and demography. Founded the Belgian Statistical Society and authored several works that laid the groundwork for modern statistics. Worked on applications of statistical analysis in various fields, emphasizing the importance of data in understanding societal trends.

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Alexis Bachelot

French priest and missionary
Born
February 22nd, 1796 229 years ago
Died
1837 188 years ago — 41 years old

A French priest and missionary, devoted to religious service and community assistance. Served as vicar apostolic of New Caledonia, overseeing the establishment of missions and churches. Engaged in education and health care initiatives among indigenous populations. Actively promoted Catholic teachings and social welfare programs.

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