What Happened This Year 1797

Born in 1797

James Brudenell

English politician and military leader
Born
1797 229 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1868 157 years ago — 71 years old

Served as a British Army officer during the Crimean War. Achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and commanded the Light Brigade at the Battle of Balaclava in 1854, which included the infamous Charge of the Light Brigade. Inherited the title of 7th Earl of Cardigan in 1868. Engaged in various political roles, advocating for military reform and improvements in soldiers' conditions. His decisions and leadership during the war drew both criticism and acclaim.

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Henrik Hertz

Danish poet and playwright
Born
1797 229 years ago
Died
February 25th, 1870 155 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in Danish literature, contributed greatly to the poetic and theatrical landscape of the 19th century. Authored numerous plays and poems, many of which were inspired by legendary figures and folklore. Worked to enhance the Danish language and culture through literary contributions. Most recognized for the drama 'Kong Renés Datter' (King René's Daughter), which reflects themes of love and conflict. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of national romanticism in Denmark.

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Annette von Droste-Hülshoff

German author and composer of poetry
Born
1797 229 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1848 177 years ago — 51 years old

One of the most significant German authors of the 19th century, with contributions to literature and music. Focused on themes of nature and human emotion, produced a range of lyrical poetry and prose works. Published notable pieces in various literary magazines and gained recognition for compositional works. Held strong connections to the Romantic movement, influencing later generations of writers.

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Paweł Strzelecki

Geologist and explorer of Australia
Born
1797 229 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1873 152 years ago — 76 years old

A Polish-English geologist and explorer, contributed significantly to the understanding of Australia's geology and geography. Explored and mapped various regions in Australia during the 19th century. Conducted extensive research and studies on the natural resources, flora, and fauna of the Australian continent. Received recognition for the first ascent of Mount Kosciuszko, the highest peak in Australia, which he named. Strzelecki's work led to advancements in geological knowledge and highlighted the need for protection of Australia's natural environment.

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Adrien-Henri de Jussieu

French botanist and academic
Born
1797 229 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1853 172 years ago — 56 years old

Contributions to botany included classification of plant species and establishment of the Jussieu system. Served as a professor at the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle. Conducted significant botanical research in South America. Published works that influenced plant taxonomy.

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Hiroshige

Japanese painter of landscape prints
Born
1797 229 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1858 167 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent ukiyo-e artist, contributed significantly to Japanese woodblock printmaking. Specialized in landscape prints, particularly known for the series 'The Fifty-Three Stations of the Tōkaidō'. His work demonstrated a keen eye for nature and seasonal changes, emphasizing tranquility and beauty. The influence extended beyond Japan, impacting Western art movements such as Impressionism. Created various series highlighting the scenic beauty of Japan, including 'One Hundred Famous Views of Edo'.

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Jean Léonard Marie Poiseuille

Physician and physiologist; Poiseuille's Law
Born
1797 229 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1869 156 years ago — 72 years old

A physician and physiologist contributed significantly to the understanding of fluid dynamics in the circulatory system. Developed Poiseuille's Law, which describes the flow of viscous fluids in pipes, laying foundational concepts for hemodynamics. Conducted experiments that detailed blood flow and vascular resistance, influencing medical and physiological research. Held a position at the Faculty of Medicine in Paris and published work that illustrated the principles governing fluid flow, which continues to be relevant in medical science.

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Sojourner Truth

American abolitionist and women's rights activist
Born
1797 229 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1883 142 years ago — 86 years old

An African-American abolitionist and women's rights activist, this individual was born into slavery in New York. After escaping, she became a powerful advocate for the abolition of slavery and women's suffrage. The speech delivered at the Women's Rights Convention in Akron, Ohio, titled 'Ain't I a Woman?', addressed the inequalities faced by both women and Black people. Throughout life, worked on behalf of various social reform causes, including the rights of formerly enslaved people during the Civil War. Emphasized the importance of gender and racial equality through public speaking, engaging audiences across the United States.

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Pierre Léonard Vander Linden

Belgian entomologist and naturalist
Born
1797 229 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1831 194 years ago — 34 years old

Contributions to entomology included extensive studies on insect species and classifications. Wrote several works on the taxonomy of insects, including 'Essai sur l'entomologie.' Conducted significant research on the order Hemiptera, advancing understanding of plant bugs. Served as a member of various scientific societies, contributing to the spread of entomological knowledge in Belgium and beyond.

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