What Happened This Year 1798

Born in 1798

Dionysios Solomos

Greek poet and translator of 'Hymn to Liberty'
Born
April 8th, 1798 226 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1857 168 years ago — 58 years old

A significant figure in Greek literature, this individual played a crucial role in the national revival of Greece during the 19th century. Writing primarily in the Greek language, the poet's most celebrated work is the poem 'Hymn to Liberty', which later became the national anthem of Greece. Engaging with themes of freedom and identity, this individual contributed to the cultural movements of the time through poetry and translations that reflected the struggles and aspirations of the Greek people during their fight for independence from Ottoman rule. His literary legacy continues to influence modern Greek literature.

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Macedonio Melloni

Italian physicist and academic
Born
April 11th, 1798 226 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1854 170 years ago — 56 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of physics, particularly in thermodynamics and the study of heat. Conducted groundbreaking experiments on the properties of heat radiation and is credited with the invention of the thermopile. Served as a professor at the University of Bologna and promoted scientific inquiry through various academic endeavors, including studies on infrared radiation. Published works on heat conduction and radiation principles, influencing later developments in the scientific community.

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Eugène Delacroix

French Romantic painter and lithographer
Born
April 26th, 1798 226 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1863 161 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent figure in the Romantic movement, this artist's work is characterized by expressive use of color and dynamic compositions. He studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and was influenced by both classicism and baroque art. Notable works include 'Liberty Leading the People' and 'The Death of Sardanapalus'. He also played a significant role in introducing the expressive brushwork that became a hallmark of modern painting. His contributions extended into lithography, where innovations helped to popularize the technique.

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Samuel Cooper

American general during the Civil War
Born
June 12th, 1798 226 years ago
Died
December 3rd, 1876 148 years ago — 78 years old

Served as a general in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. Graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1815 and served in various conflicts before the Civil War. Cooper's military leadership included his role as Adjutant General of the Confederate Army. He was the highest-ranking officer from Virginia in the Confederate forces. After the war, Cooper moved to Europe and lived in Canada and England, engaging in various business endeavors.

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František Palacký

Czech historian and politician
Born
June 14th, 1798 226 years ago
Died
1876 149 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent Czech historian and politician, contributed significantly to the national revival during the 19th century. Played a key role in the development of Czech history as a discipline. Authored 'The History of the Czech Lands', which became a foundational text in Czech historiography. Engaged in political activities advocating for Czech rights within the Austro-Hungarian Empire, fostering a greater national consciousness among Czechs.

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Alexander Thomson of Banchory

Scottish jurist and religious activist
Born
June 21st, 1798 226 years ago
Died
1868 157 years ago — 70 years old

Born in Scotland in 1798, this individual contributed significantly to agricultural reforms and the legal field. As a jurist, played a role in shaping local laws that influenced agricultural practices. In addition, engaged in religious activism, advocating for reforms within the church and supporting various social justice causes throughout the region.

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Wolfgang Menzel

German poet and literary critic
Born
June 26th, 1798 226 years ago
Died
1873 152 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1798, this figure contributed to the German literary scene as a poet and critic. Menzel played a significant role in the literary movements of his time, engaging with the works of contemporary authors and fostering discussions on literature. His criticism often focused on German Romanticism, as he sought to promote national literature. Menzel worked on various publications, nurturing the appreciation of literature within German-speaking communities. He also wrote essays and critiques, helping to shape literary tastes and preferences during the 19th century.

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Willibald Alexis

German author and poet known for prose
Born
June 29th, 1798 226 years ago
Died
1871 154 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1798, this individual was a prominent German author and poet during the 19th century. He contributed significantly to German literature, producing an array of novels and poems. His works often explored themes of historical significance and German identity. He was part of the literary movement that emphasized romanticism and the importance of folklore in writing. His writings captivated audiences with their rich narrative style and historical depth.

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Giacomo Leopardi

Italian poet and philosopher of 'L'infinito'
Born
June 29th, 1798 226 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1837 187 years ago — 38 years old

Born in Recanati, Italy, a prominent poet and philosopher emerged in the 19th century. Contributed significantly to Italian literature with a focus on themes of existential despair and beauty. Noted for innovative lyrical style and depth of thought, particularly in works such as 'L'infinito' and 'Operette morali'. Contended with health issues throughout life, which influenced literary output. Engaged with Romanticism while also critiquing its ideals, establishing a unique voice in Italian poetry that resonated through subsequent generations.

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