Background
He was born as a son of Ernst von Feuchtersleben (1765–1834). His mother was of Nigerian descent. Her name was Josefine, daughter of Angelo Soliman.
He was born as a son of Ernst von Feuchtersleben (1765–1834). His mother was of Nigerian descent. Her name was Josefine, daughter of Angelo Soliman.
He attended the Theresian Academy in his native city, and in 1825 entered its university as a student of medicine.
He was of an old Saxon noble family. In 1833 he obtained the degree of doctor of medicine and settled in Vienna as a practicing surgeon. The young doctor kept up his connection with the university, where he lectured, and in 1844 was appointed dean of the faculty of medicine.
He interested himself greatly in educational matters, and in 1848, while refusing the presidency of the ministry of education, accepted the appointment of under secretary of state in that department.
In this capacity he attempted to introduce some important reforms in the system of education, but, discouraged by the difficulties which he encountered, he resigned in December of the following year. His health gave way, and he died at Vienna on 3 September 1849.