What Happened This Year 1851

People Who Died in 1851

Karl Freiherr von Müffling

Prussian Field Marshal and military leader
Born
June 12th, 1775 249 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1851 174 years ago — 75 years old

Achieved prominence in the Prussian Army, serving during the Napoleonic Wars. Participated in key battles, including the Battle of Leipzig in 1813. Held the position of Chief of Staff and contributed to military planning and strategies. Reached the rank of field marshal and influenced military reforms in Prussia. After retirement, engaged in historical writing and analysis, documenting military experiences and strategies.

Continue Reading

Esteban Echeverría

Argentinian poet and author of "El matadero"
Born
September 2nd, 1805 219 years ago
Died
January 19th, 1851 174 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent figure in Argentine literature, focused on themes of social justice and freedom. Echeverría contributed significantly to the literary and cultural landscape of Argentina during the 19th century. His most notable work, "El matadero" (The Slaughterhouse), critiqued the oppressive political regime of his time and became a cornerstone of Argentine literature. Echeverría was associated with the Romantic movement and played a crucial role in the establishment of a national literary identity. Despite limited recognition during his lifetime, later generations celebrated his contributions to poetry and prose as pivotal in shaping Argentine cultural thought.

Continue Reading

Albert Lortzing

German actor and composer of operas
Born
October 23rd, 1801 223 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1851 174 years ago — 49 years old

Pioneered the operetta genre in Germany. Acted in and composed works that combined spoken dialogue with music. His compositions often featured themes of social issues and national identity. Lortzing's most notable works include 'Zar und Zimmermann' and 'Der Wildschütz', both of which reflect a blend of humor and drama. His contributions significantly shaped the landscape of German musical theater during the 19th century.

Continue Reading

John James Audubon

Ornithologist and painter of birds
Born
April 26th, 1785 239 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1851 174 years ago — 65 years old

A French-American ornithologist and painter, recognized for extensive studies of North American birds. Created 'The Birds of America', a groundbreaking collection of bird illustrations that features high-quality, life-sized images of various bird species. The work contributed to the field of ornithology and art, showcasing over 400 species with detailed observations. His artistic approach combined scientific accuracy with aesthetic quality, influencing both art and natural history. Founded the Audubon Society, which promotes conservation of birds and their habitats.

Continue Reading

Mary Shelley

English Novelist; Frankenstein author
Born
August 30th, 1797 227 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1851 174 years ago — 53 years old

An English novelist and playwright, this individual is celebrated for writing the novel 'Frankenstein', which is one of the earliest examples of science fiction. The book was first published in 1818 and explored themes of creation, responsibility, and the human condition. Additionally, the work is often regarded as a precursor to modern horror literature. Besides 'Frankenstein', contributions included other works such as 'The Last Man' and several essays on various topics. The influence of this individual’s writing extends well into contemporary literature and popular culture.

Continue Reading

Carl Gustav Jacob Jacobi

Mathematician and academic known for elliptic functions
Born
December 10th, 1804 220 years ago
Died
February 18th, 1851 174 years ago — 46 years old

Carl Gustav Jacob Jacobi contributed significantly to the field of mathematics, particularly in the development of elliptic functions and determinants. Appointed to the University of Königsberg, he made substantial advancements in the theory of functions, including transformations and applications of elliptic integrals. Jacobi also studied and articulated various mathematical theories, earning recognition for his contributions to differential equations and mechanics. His work laid the groundwork for future mathematicians exploring complex analysis and algebra.

Continue Reading

James Richardson

English explorer of African geography
Born
1809 216 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1851 174 years ago — 42 years old

An English explorer focused on African geography and the exploration of the Sahara Desert. In 1845, he embarked on a journey to northern Africa, specifically to explore the regions of Sudan and Fezzan. His travels provided valuable insights into the topography and cultures of these areas. He died during an expedition in Libya, making significant contributions to the knowledge of this region.

Continue Reading

Hans Christian Ørsted

Danish physicist and chemist recognized for electromagnetism
Born
August 14th, 1777 247 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1851 174 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1777, a Danish physicist and chemist contributed to the understanding of electromagnetism. The discovery of electromagnetism occurred during an experiment in 1820 when the influence of electric currents on magnetic needles was observed. This pivotal moment laid the foundation for subsequent developments in the field. Ørsted also made contributions to chemistry, particularly in the study of metal oxides and the synthesis of organic compounds. Established a scientific society in Denmark and became a member of several prominent academies. Ørsted's work inspired future scientists, including Michael Faraday and James Clerk Maxwell, solidifying a legacy within both physics and chemistry.

Continue Reading

George McDuffie

American lawyer and South Carolina Governor
Born
1790 235 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1851 174 years ago — 61 years old

Born in South Carolina, served as a lawyer and politician during the 19th century. Elected as the 55th Governor of South Carolina, holding office from 1840 to 1842. Known for his involvement in state issues and his role in the wider political landscape of the time. Worked on issues related to economic development and state governance, contributing to the legal and political framework of South Carolina. Also had a notable career within the U.S. House of Representatives, serving South Carolina's interests at the federal level.

Continue Reading