Historical Events from This Year 1818
Publication of Frankenstein by Mary Shelley
Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley anonymously published her novel 'Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus' in London. This groundbreaking work is often cited as one of the earliest examples of science fiction. Shelley explored themes of creation, responsibility, and the consequences of man's pursuit of knowledge through the story of Victor Frankenstein and his monstrous creation. Despite its initial publication being anonymous, the novel would eventually solidify Shelley's status as a significant literary figure and inspire countless adaptations and discussions in literature and philosophy.
Continue ReadingFounding of the British Institution of Civil Engineers
A group of six engineers founded the British Institution of Civil Engineers, with Thomas Telford later becoming its first president. This institution aimed to promote the profession and improve engineering practices in the United Kingdom. It provided a platform for engineers to collaborate and elevate the standards of civil engineering, contributing to the expansion of infrastructure during the Industrial Revolution.
Continue ReadingBrewster Announces Biaxial Crystals Discovery
David Brewster presented his findings on doubly-refracting crystals to the Royal Society, highlighting the biaxial class. Simultaneously, Augustin-Jean Fresnel prepared a supplement regarding the reflection of polarized light, demonstrating ongoing advancements in optics and light behavior, leading to significant developments in the field.
Continue ReadingJean-Baptiste Bernadotte Becomes King of Sweden
Jean-Baptiste Bernadotte, originally a Marshal of France, was elected Crown Prince of Sweden in 1810 and ascended to the thrones of Sweden and Norway in 1818. His coronation marked a significant moment in European politics as he managed to integrate his French heritage with Scandinavian royal traditions. Bernadotte's election was primarily a maneuver to ensure stability and peace in the region following the Napoleonic Wars, especially as Sweden sought to maintain neutrality. His reign would see several reforms and the solidification of a constitutional monarchy in Sweden.
Continue ReadingBernardo O'Higgins Approves Chilean Independence
Bernardo O'Higgins, the Supreme Director of Chile, formally approved the Chilean Declaration of Independence near Concepción. This significant milestone came during a time of ongoing conflict against Spanish colonial rule. The declaration embraced the ideals of sovereignty and self-governance, symbolizing Chile's aspirations for freedom. O'Higgins' leadership was pivotal in rallying support for the independence movement in the region, reflecting a broader trend in Latin America towards liberation from colonial dominance.
Continue ReadingAugustin Fresnel Presents Optical Rotation Findings
Augustin Fresnel presented a memoir on optical rotation to the French Academy of Sciences, where he explained that when polarized light is depolarized by a Fresnel rhomb, its properties remain intact during subsequent interactions with optically-rotating materials. This revelation added significant understanding to the field of optics and encouraged further exploration of polarized light's behavior.
Continue ReadingCongress Adopts New United States Flag Design
The United States Congress adopted a new flag design featuring 13 alternating red and white stripes representing the original colonies and a star for each of the 20 states in the Union. This decision reinforced the symbolism of unity and patriotism amidst a growing nation, transitioning from a revolutionary past to a more established republic. The resolution was part of a broader effort to standardize national symbols, consolidating American identity during a period of westward expansion and increasing statehood.
Continue ReadingDecisive Battle of Maipú in Chile
In the Battle of Maipú, Chilean forces led by Bernardo O'Higgins and José de San Martín achieved a significant victory against the Spanish army. The confrontation resulted in heavy casualties, with approximately 2,000 Spanish soldiers and 1,000 Chilean patriots losing their lives on the battlefield. This victory was instrumental in consolidating Chilean independence from Spanish colonial rule. The well-coordinated strategies employed by O'Higgins and San Martín were pivotal to the outcome of this battle, demonstrating the strength of the Chilean independence movement.
Continue ReadingSenate Ratifies Rush–Bagot Treaty for Great Lakes
The United States Senate ratified the Rush–Bagot Treaty, which aimed to limit naval armaments on the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain. The treaty was negotiated between American and British representatives, signaling a desire for improved relations following the War of 1812. By establishing mutual disarmament on these significant waterways, the treaty contributed to a period of peaceful coexistence between the U.S. and Britain in North America.
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