What Happened This Year 1851

People Who Died in 1851

Émilie Gamelin

Canadian social worker and nun
Born
February 19th, 1800 225 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1851 173 years ago — 51 years old

Founded the Sisters of Providence in Canada, an organization dedicated to providing social services, education, and care for the vulnerable. Focused on helping the poor and sick, particularly in Montreal, the organization expanded its reach and influence through various charitable works. Contributed to the establishment of institutions that provided essential services during the 19th century, including hospitals and orphanages. Advocated for social change and the betterment of society through her religious and humanitarian efforts.

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Manuel Godoy

Spanish field marshal and prime minister
Born
May 12th, 1767 257 years ago
Died
October 4th, 1851 173 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1767, a significant political figure in Spain during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Served as the Prime Minister and played a key role in the country's administration. His leadership coincided with a period of immense political change influenced by the Napoleonic Wars. Held the title of field marshal, demonstrating military leadership alongside political authority. Engaged in significant reforms and foreign policy strategies to address Spain's challenges during this tumultuous era.

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Marie Thérèse of France

French princess and Dauphine of France
Born
December 19th, 1778 246 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1851 173 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1778, played a significant role in royal lineage as the only surviving child of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. Following the execution of her parents during the French Revolution, faced imprisonment and eventual exile. Resided in various countries and negotiated her family's return to France. Eventually married Louis-Antoine, Duke of Angoulême, solidifying her commitment to the royal legacy. Lived until 1851, witnessing the dramatic changes in France over decades.

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Jean-de-Dieu Soult

French General and Prime Minister
Born
March 29th, 1769 255 years ago
Died
November 26th, 1851 173 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent military figure during the Napoleonic Wars, served as a Marshal of France. As Prime Minister, held office during the turbulent Restoration period following Napoleon's defeat. Played a key role in various battles, including the Battle of Austerlitz and the Peninsular War. Known for efforts in administrative and military reforms.

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Joseph Mallord William Turner

English painter of Romantic landscapes
Born
1775 250 years ago
Died
December 19th, 1851 173 years ago — 76 years old

A prominent figure in Romanticism, this painter specialized in landscape painting, particularly focusing on light and color. Major contributions include oil paintings and watercolors that depicted nature and atmospheric conditions. Turner's works often explored the sublime and the interplay of light and water. His participation in exhibitions, particularly the Royal Academy, showcased works like 'The Fighting Temeraire' and 'Rain, Steam and Speed'. His techniques laid the groundwork for Impressionism, influencing many future artists.

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Ernest Augustus

King of Hanover, Duke of Cumberland
Born
June 5th, 1771 253 years ago
Died
1851 174 years ago — 80 years old

Born in 1771, held the title of King of Hanover from 1837 until 1851. During the reign, prioritized maintaining the independence of Hanover amid the changing political landscape of Europe. Served as a key figure in the German Confederation.

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Joel Roberts Poinsett

U.S. Secretary of War
Born
March 2nd, 1779 246 years ago
Died
1851 174 years ago — 72 years old

Graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a medical degree and became a prominent physician. Served as the 15th Secretary of War from 1837 to 1839 under President Martin Van Buren. Participated in U.S. diplomatic missions to Mexico, where he developed a keen interest in botany. Introduced the Poinsettia plant to the United States, which is named after him. Actively engaged in public service and politics throughout his life.

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John Kirk Townsend

Ornithologist and explorer of the West
Born
August 10th, 1809 215 years ago
Died
1851 174 years ago — 42 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of ornithology through extensive explorations in the western United States in the early 19th century. Collected numerous bird specimens that were later used for classification. Participated in the 1834-1837 expedition to the Pacific Northwest, documenting various species and their habitats. Published works included observations on the natural history of birds, enhancing understanding of North American avian life.

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Petar II Petrović-Njegoš

Montenegrin poet and philosopher
Born
November 13th, 1813 211 years ago
Died
1851 174 years ago — 38 years old

A prominent Montenegrin figure, played a crucial role in the spiritual and cultural development of Montenegro through poetry and leadership. His most famous work, 'Gorski vijenac' (The Mountain Wreath), remains a significant contribution to Serbian literature and addresses themes of faith and national identity. As a metropolitan bishop, worked to unify the Montenegrin people and modernize Church institutions. Engaged in political affairs, sought to establish Montenegro as a distinct entity amidst regional upheaval.

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