What Happened This Year 1847

People Who Died in 1847

Nicolas Oudinot

French general and military leader
Born
April 25th, 1767 258 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1847 177 years ago — 80 years old

Born in France, a prominent military leader during the Napoleonic Wars. Commanded troops in several key battles including the Battle of Eylau in 1807 and the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. His leadership contributed to various victories and campaigns throughout Europe. Served with distinction, achieving the rank of Marshal of France. Notably participated in the Russian campaign and the defense of Paris.

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Felix Mendelssohn

Composer and conductor, famous for 'Elijah'
Born
February 3rd, 1809 216 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1847 177 years ago — 38 years old

A prominent German composer, pianist, and conductor during the early Romantic period. His compositions spanned various genres, with notable works including symphonies, concertos, and chamber music. Mendelssohn established a high standard for the German symphonic tradition and revived interest in the works of Johann Sebastian Bach. His oratorio 'Elijah' gained significant acclaim and is frequently performed in choral repertoire. He played a key role in founding the Leipzig Conservatory, one of the first music schools in Europe.

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Marcus Whitman

Physician and missionary in Oregon Trail
Born
1802 223 years ago
Died
November 29th, 1847 177 years ago — 45 years old

Served as a physician and missionary in the Oregon Territory during the mid-19th century. Played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States by helping to establish the first permanent American settlement in the Pacific Northwest. Together with his wife, worked to promote education and Christianity among Indigenous peoples. Faced challenges including illness and conflicts with settlers and Native Americans. The tragic end of his life came during a massacre in 1847, which contributed to the awareness and subsequent settlement of the area.

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Marie Louise

Duchess of Parma and Empress of France
Born
1791 234 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1847 177 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1791, served as the second wife of Napoleon Bonaparte. After Napoleon's abdication, governed Parma as its duchess from 1816 until death in 1847. Oversaw various reforms in education and public works in Parma, enhancing its infrastructure. Provided for the well-being of her subjects during her reign. Engaged in diplomatic relations in Europe following the fall of Napoleon, maintaining the duchy's stability.

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Henri Dutrochet

Physician and botanist known for osmosis
Born
November 14th, 1776 248 years ago
Died
1847 178 years ago — 71 years old

Contributed significantly to the understanding of plant physiology and cell biology. His research established foundational principles in the study of osmosis, demonstrating how water moves through biological membranes. In 1824, published important work on the relationship between cells and their environment, offering insights into plant sap and hydration mechanisms. His explorations laid groundwork for future studies in botany and physiology. Also involved in studies regarding the physiology of animal tissues and their functions. Played a crucial role in early plant biology.

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Mary Anning

English paleontologist and fossil collector
Born
May 21st, 1799 225 years ago
Died
1847 178 years ago — 48 years old

Born in 1799, contributions to paleontology included significant discoveries along the Jurassic marine fossil beds in Lyme Regis, Dorset. Anning unearthed the first complete Ichthyosaurus skeleton in 1811 and played a vital role in the discovery of Plesiosaurus in 1823. Her work helped to advance the understanding of prehistoric life and laid foundational insights for the field, challenging contemporary scientific thought.

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Jan Paweł Lelewel

Polish painter and engineer
Born
June 26th, 1796 228 years ago
Died
1847 178 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1796, a painter and engineer contributed to the cultural landscape of Poland. Educational pursuits in art and engineering led to a blend of skills that influenced various artistic movements. Engaged in numerous projects, a unique style emerged that combined realism with romanticism. This individual's work reflected the social and political context of Poland during a period of turmoil, often emphasizing national themes and local history.

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Robert Liston

Scottish surgeon and pioneer in surgery
Born
October 28th, 1794 230 years ago
Died
1847 178 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent 19th-century surgeon, contributed significantly to the field of surgery in the United Kingdom. Developed techniques in amputation and is remembered for performing some of the earliest recorded limb amputations under anesthesia. Held the position of surgeon at several esteemed hospitals, including the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. Demonstrated innovative approaches that helped advance surgical practices and improve patient outcomes. Engaged in extensive teaching and mentorship of future surgeons, influencing surgical education during this period.

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Heinrich Baermann

German clarinetist and composer
Born
February 14th, 1784 241 years ago
Died
1847 178 years ago — 63 years old

Regarded as one of the leading clarinetists of the 19th century, contributions to clarinet music included performances and compositions that enriched the instrument's repertoire. Worked closely with renowned composers such as Carl Maria von Weber, who wrote significant works for the clarinet in collaboration with this musician. Pioneered the use of the clarinet in both orchestral and chamber music settings. Established a teaching legacy that influenced future generations of clarinet players.

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