What Happened This Year 1821

People Who Died in 1821

Elizabeth Ann Seton

American nun and founder of a religious order
Born
August 28th, 1774 250 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1821 204 years ago — 46 years old

Founded the first Catholic school in the United States and established the Sisters of Charity. Canonized as the first American-born saint in the Roman Catholic Church. Promoted education and religious instruction among the youth, significantly influencing the development of Catholic education in America. Served as a pioneer in providing social services and outreach within the community.

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Georg Friedrich von Martens

German jurist and diplomat
Born
1756 269 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1821 204 years ago — 65 years old

Contributed significantly to international law and diplomacy. Served as a diplomat for the Kingdom of Prussia, participating in various important negotiations. Authored several important works that laid the groundwork for future legal studies in international relations. Developed comprehensive treaties that guided diplomatic practices in Europe during his tenure.

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John Keats

English Romantic poet and writer
Born
October 31st, 1795 229 years ago
Died
February 23rd, 1821 204 years ago — 25 years old

This poet contributed significantly to English literature during the Romantic period. His work featured themes of beauty, nature, and mortality. Prominent works include 'Ode to a Nightingale', 'Ode on a Grecian Urn', and 'Endymion'. Keats's poetry is characterized by vivid imagery and lyrical quality that have influenced many poets after him. The poet struggled with illness throughout his life and died at a young age, but left behind a lasting legacy in the world of poetry.

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Joseph de Maistre

French diplomat and philosopher
Born
April 1st, 1753 271 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1821 204 years ago — 67 years old

A prominent figure in political philosophy during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, this individual served as a diplomat in various capacities for the Kingdom of Sardinia. He developed a reputation for his writings on political theory, emphasizing authority and tradition as crucial aspects of governance. His influential works include "Considerations on France," reflecting on the consequences of the French Revolution, and "Soirées de Saint-Pétersbourg," a philosophical dialogue discussing the relationship between religion and politics. His thoughts shaped the discourse surrounding conservatism and were instrumental in the development of counter-revolutionary ideology.

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Gregory V of Constantinople

Ecumenical Patriarch, religious leader
Born
1746 279 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1821 203 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople during a turbulent period marked by the Greek War of Independence. Gregory V opposed the uprising against Ottoman rule, maintaining loyalty to the Sultan. This stance led to his execution in 1821, following the capture of the Patriarchate. His leadership focused on church unity and the promotion of the Orthodox faith, while navigating complex political landscapes. He was a prominent figure within the Orthodox Church and played a significant role in religious leadership during a critical time.

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Napoleon Bonaparte

French general and emperor
Born
August 15th, 1769 255 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1821 203 years ago — 51 years old

Born on August 15, 1769, a French military leader rose to prominence during the French Revolution and led several successful campaigns during the Revolutionary Wars. Became Emperor of the French in 1804 and established the Napoleonic Code, which influenced legal systems worldwide. His military prowess was displayed in significant battles, such as Austerlitz and Waterloo. The invasion of Russia in 1812 marked a turning point in his fortunes. After a series of defeats, was exiled to Elba and later to Saint Helena, where he died on May 5, 1821.

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Martín Miguel de Güemes

Argentinian general and politician
Born
1785 240 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1821 203 years ago — 36 years old

Served as a general in the Argentine War of Independence and as a prominent regional leader in northern Argentina. Led military campaigns against Spanish forces, utilizing guerrilla tactics to influence the course of the war. Held the position of governor of Salta Province several times, implementing policies to support local autonomy. His strategies and leadership played a crucial role in sustaining the independence movement in the region during the early 19th century.

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Richard Cosway

English painter of miniatures
Born
November 5th, 1742 282 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1821 203 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1742, this artist gained prominence as a painter of miniatures, showcasing exceptional skill in capturing likenesses on a small scale. Training initially in London, he became a member of the Royal Academy and was recognized for his contributions to this intimate art form. Many of his works are distinguished by their detailed craftsmanship and vibrant colors, capturing the essence of the subjects portrayed. His clientele included prominent figures of the time, and he played a significant role in popularizing miniature painting in England throughout the 18th century.

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John William Polidori

Physician and author of 'The Vampyre'
Born
September 7th, 1795 229 years ago
Died
August 24th, 1821 203 years ago — 25 years old

An English physician and writer, contributed to the horror genre with the publication of 'The Vampyre' in 1819, a seminal work that introduced the modern vampire archetype. This story emerged alongside the Gothic tradition, showcasing themes of eroticism and mortality. Polidori's role in the Romantic literary circle included connections with prominent figures like Lord Byron, and he participated in pivotal literary discussions during the summer of 1816 at Lake Geneva, which inspired the creation of Frankenstein.

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