What Happened This Year 1806

People Who Died in 1806

Mathurin Jacques Brisson

Zoologist known for classification work
Born
April 30th, 1723 301 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1806 218 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed significantly to zoology and philosophy. Developed a systematic approach to the study of animal classification. Published influential works such as 'Regnum Animale', which categorized animals based on shared characteristics. Engaged in philosophical inquiries around natural history and the classification system. Served as a professor at the Collège Royal, promoting scientific education in his field.

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George Stubbs

Painter of horse anatomy and art
Born
August 25th, 1724 300 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1806 218 years ago — 81 years old

An English painter and academic, recognized for detailed paintings of horses and contributions to the study of equine anatomy. Stubbs studied anatomy through rigorous dissections, aiming to portray horses with both accuracy and artistry. His major work, 'The Anatomy of the Horse', published in 1766, established his reputation as both an artist and an anatomist. The work included detailed illustrations and descriptions of horse anatomy, influencing artists and veterinarians alike. Stubbs also created notable paintings featuring horses, including commissioned works for aristocrats and royal families, capturing the grace and power of the animal. His style combined realism with a deep understanding of equine form, making him a key figure in 18th-century British art.

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Michael Haydn

Austrian composer and conductor
Born
September 14th, 1737 287 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1806 218 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1737, a prominent composer in the Classical era. Contributed significantly to the development of the symphony and choral music. Served as a music director in various churches. Composed over 50 symphonies and numerous vocal works. His compositions influenced contemporaries and later generations, particularly through the establishment of the symphonic form. Worked alongside notable figures in music during this period.

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Jean-Honoré Fragonard

French painter renowned for Rococo art
Born
April 5th, 1732 292 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1806 218 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent painter and etcher, worked primarily during the Rococo period in France. Fragonard studied under François Boucher and became famous for his dynamic compositions and vibrant colors. His artwork often depicted romantic and playful themes. Major pieces include 'The Swing', 'The Progress of Love', and 'The Reader'. Fragonard’s style epitomized the essence of 18th-century French art, showcasing elegance and frivolity in the midst of societal change due to the approaching Enlightenment.

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Charles-Augustin de Coulomb

French physicist and engineer
Born
June 14th, 1736 288 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1806 218 years ago — 70 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of electrostatics and mechanics. Formulated Coulomb's law, which describes the electrostatic interaction between charged particles. Worked on friction and torsion pendulum experiments, advancing the understanding of mechanical properties of materials. Held the position of a member of the French Academy of Sciences.

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William Paterson

Irish-American politician and governor
Born
1745 280 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1806 218 years ago — 61 years old

An Irish-American politician and judge served as the second Governor of New Jersey from 1790 to 1793. Paterson was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention in 1787, where he contributed to the drafting of the United States Constitution. After his term as governor, he held the position of U.S. Senator for New Jersey from 1797 until his death in 1806. Paterson's legal career included serving as a judge on the New Jersey Supreme Court.

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Charles James Fox

English politician and statesman
Born
January 24th, 1749 276 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1806 218 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent English politician and soldier, held the position of Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs during pivotal years in the late 18th century. Participated in significant political movements advocating for reform and individual liberties. Played an influential role in the early formation of the Whig party, establishing a legacy of opposition to governmental corruption and advocating for civil rights. Engaged actively in debates and legislative efforts concerning issues of trade and foreign policy, particularly with regard to the American Revolution.

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Benjamin Banneker

American surveyor and almanac author
Born
November 9th, 1731 293 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1806 218 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1731 in Maryland, this individual was a notable farmer, surveyor, and author. He played a significant role in the surveying of the boundaries of the District of Columbia. Banneker published several almanacs that included astronomical calculations and weather predictions. He corresponded with Thomas Jefferson, advocating for the rights of African Americans and the abolition of slavery. His contributions include a remarkable understanding of mathematics and astronomy, despite limited formal education.

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Prince Louis Ferdinand of Prussia

Prussian military officer and musician
Born
November 18th, 1772 252 years ago
Died
October 10th, 1806 218 years ago — 33 years old

Born into the Prussian royal family, played a significant role in military leadership during the Napoleonic Wars. Louis Ferdinand was an accomplished composer and pianist, contributing to the musical landscape of his time. He participated in several key battles and rose to the rank of major-general. An advocate for reforms in the military, he aimed to modernize the armed forces and improve conditions for soldiers. His life was marked by artistic endeavors alongside military duties, showcasing talents in both music and leadership.

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