What Happened This Year 1804

Born in 1804

Paul Gavarni

French illustrator and caricaturist
Born
January 13th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
1866 159 years ago — 62 years old

An influential French illustrator, Gavarni made significant contributions to the world of caricature and illustration during the 19th century. His works often depicted Parisian life and society, showcasing his keen eye for detail and understanding of human character. Gavarni's illustrations appeared in several magazines, and he became a prominent figure in the realm of graphic art. His ability to blend humor with social commentary set him apart from his contemporaries. Gavarni also produced a series of lithographs that captured the essence of various social classes in Paris, highlighting both the struggles and the charm of urban life at the time. His talent led to collaborations with various literary figures and magazines, securing his legacy in the fields of illustration and caricature.

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Moritz von Schwind

Austrian painter and illustrator
Born
January 21st, 1804 221 years ago
Died
1871 154 years ago — 67 years old

Born in Austria, this painter excelled in the Romantic style, creating numerous works that captured the imagination. Studies in Vienna and further travels influenced his artistic development. Notably, produced illustrations for the German edition of 'The Fairy Tales of the Brothers Grimm.' Additionally, he contributed to the artistic decoration of several significant buildings, including the Vienna Burgtheater. Engagement with historical and mythical themes defined much of the work.

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Delphine de Girardin

French author and playwright
Born
January 24th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
1855 170 years ago — 51 years old

An influential French author and playwright, recognized for contributions to literature in the 19th century. Initiated in literary circles, produced significant works that propelled the literary movement of her time. Became the first woman to write a successful dramatic work for the Comédie-Française and was celebrated for the play 'Graham'. In addition to drama, published essays and critiques focusing on contemporary society and gender roles. Engaged in literary salons that fostered intellectual discussions and nurtured emerging writers.

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Johan Ludvig Runeberg

Finnish poet and hymn-writer
Born
February 5th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1877 147 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in Finnish literature, this individual contributed significantly to the development of the Finnish language through poetry. Works include the national epic 'The Tales of Ensign Stål', which illustrated Finnish history and culture. This person also wrote the lyrics to the Finnish national anthem, 'Maamme', originally penned in Swedish. His poetry often depicted the life and struggles of the Finnish people during the 19th century, highlighting themes of national identity and folklore.

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John Deere

Blacksmith and founder of Deere & Company
Born
February 7th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1886 138 years ago — 82 years old

A blacksmith and businessman established a brand recognized for agricultural machinery. Pioneered the creation of a plow that efficiently tilled the tough Midwestern soil, leading to significant advancements in farming techniques. Founded Deere & Company in 1837, which became one of the largest manufacturers of agricultural equipment in the world. The business model emphasized high-quality products and customer service, contributing to the growth of modern agriculture.

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Heinrich Lenz

Physicist known for Lenz's Law
Born
February 12th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1865 160 years ago — 60 years old

A physicist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of electromagnetism. Formulated Lenz's Law, a fundamental principle that describes the direction of induced current in a conductor. Held a position as a professor and conducted research that advanced the understanding of electric currents and magnetic fields. Engaged in various scientific societies and published several important papers during his career.

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Karl Theodor Ernst von Siebold

German physiologist and zoologist
Born
February 16th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1885 139 years ago — 81 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of physiology and zoology, focusing extensively on histology, embryology, and the study of fish. Conducted research that paved the way for later discoveries in biological sciences. Became a professor at the University of Würzburg, where teaching and research prompted advances in understanding animal development and tissue structure. Published numerous influential works, which helped establish histological methods.

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Carl von Rokitansky

Pathologist, author of Rokitansky method
Born
February 19th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1878 146 years ago — 74 years old

Contributed significantly to pathology and anatomy. Developed the Rokitansky method of autopsy, which set a standard for modern forensic science. Published multiple volumes on pathology and histology. Served as a professor and head of the pathological anatomy department at the University of Vienna, shaping medical education and research.

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Alvan Clark

Astronomer and optician who constructed telescopes
Born
March 8th, 1804 221 years ago
Died
1887 138 years ago — 83 years old

Contributions to astronomy included the construction of some of the largest telescopes of the 19th century. Worked extensively on improving refracting telescopes, especially the design of the objective lens. Partnered with his son to establish a successful telescope-making business. Involved in the discovery of the fourth moon of Mars in 1877.

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