What Happened This Year 1857

People Who Died in 1857

Johan Christian Dahl

Norwegian-German Romantic painter
Born
February 24th, 1788 237 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1788, a pivotal figure in the German Romantic movement, became prominent for landscape painting. Studied in Dresden and was heavily influenced by nature and the German romantic style. Developed a distinct approach to capturing atmospheric light and natural beauty, focusing on regions in Norway and Germany. Contributed to the establishment of the German Romantic landscape tradition and influenced subsequent artists with unique interpretations of Norwegian vistas. Participated in exhibitions and received recognition for works celebrating Scandinavia's landscapes.

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Adolf Schlagintweit

German botanist and explorer
Born
January 9th, 1829 196 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 28 years old

Highlighted as a key figure in 19th-century exploration, focused extensively on the flora of the Himalayas and surrounding regions. Conducted significant botanical studies in India, Nepal, and Tibet. Led an expedition alongside his brothers, contributing to the understanding of the region's biodiversity. Collaborated with other explorers and scientists to compile data and specimens that enriched European botanical knowledge.

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Victoire de Donnissan de La Rochejaquelein

French memoirist of the Vendée War
Born
October 25th, 1772 253 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 85 years old

Born in 1772, a prominent figure during the French Revolutionary Wars. Wrote memoirs detailing experiences and perspectives of the Royalist uprising in the Vendée region against Republican forces. Her writings reflected the hardships and events faced during this tumultuous period. Memoirs provided a unique female perspective on the chaos of war and the struggles of loyalty amidst conflict, capturing the complexity of her role and that of others.

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George Cayley

Engineer and aviation pioneer
Born
December 27th, 1773 251 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 84 years old

Contributions to aeronautics included the development of the concept of the airplane as a heavier-than-air powered vehicle. Authored influential works detailing principles of flight and created designs for various aircraft. Constructed the first successful manned flight in history with a glider in 1853. Served as a member of Parliament, contributing to civil engineering and local governance.

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Henry Havelock

British general during Indian Rebellion
Born
April 5th, 1795 230 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1795, a British general served in the British East India Company’s army. Played a pivotal role in the Indian Rebellion of 1857, particularly during the relief of the besieged British garrison in Lucknow. Demonstrated strategic military skills and leadership during this critical conflict. Achieved the rank of major-general and recognized for administrative capabilities as well.

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Ours-Pierre-Armand Petit-Dufrénoy

French geologist and mineralogist
Born
September 5th, 1792 233 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 65 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of geology and mineralogy. Developed a comprehensive classification system for minerals. Participated in geological surveys of France, enhancing knowledge of local geology. Published works on various mineralogical studies, contributing to academic discourse.

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Princess Mary

Duchess of Gloucester and Edinburgh
Born
April 25th, 1776 249 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1776, the Duchess of Gloucester and Edinburgh served as a prominent member of the British royal family. As the daughter of King George III and Queen Charlotte, she held significant royal status and was involved in various court activities. Throughout her life, she maintained a close relationship with her siblings and took part in charitable efforts, supporting various causes associated with the royal family. Her marriage to Prince William Henry, Duke of Gloucester, further solidified her position within the aristocracy. She resided at various royal estates, becoming a respected figure within her social circles.

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Manuel Oribe

Uruguayan soldier and politician, 4th President
Born
August 26th, 1792 233 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the 4th President of Uruguay from 1835 to 1838 and again from 1843 to 1851. Played a significant role in early Uruguayan politics and military affairs. Participated in the civil wars that shaped the nation, particularly the conflicts between the Colorado and Blanco parties. Led forces in the War of the Pacific and faced challenges from rival factions within the country.

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Abraham Jacob van der Aa

Dutch author and academic, wrote encyclopedias
Born
December 7th, 1792 233 years ago
Died
1857 168 years ago — 65 years old

An author and academic who contributed significantly to the field of literature and reference works. Focused on Dutch history and culture, producing extensive writings that shed light on various subjects. Notable for writing multi-volume encyclopedias and historical texts which have served as resources for scholars and readers. The works addressed the importance of regional history and provided comprehensive overviews of notable figures and events within the Netherlands.

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