Ivan Belostenec, known for his contributions to the Croatian language and national identity, died on February 10, 1675. As a member of the Pauline order, which played a crucial role in fostering the cultural, educational, and spiritual development among northern Croats, his works were instrumental in the evolution of Croatian linguistic identity. Notably, Belostenec's dictionary was pioneering for its inclusion of all three Croatian dialects: Kajkavian, Chakavian, and Štokavian, marking a significant step towards the unification of the Croatian language.

His most important work, the bilingual Latin-Croatian dictionary "Gazophylacium seu latino-illyricorum onomatum aerarium," served not only as a linguistic resource but also as a cultural artifact that reflected the rich linguistic diversity of Croatia. This dictionary was the first to encompass all three dialects, thereby highlighting the interconnectedness of the Croatian-speaking populace. The completion and publication of this work by the Pauline order after his death underscored the continued importance of his contributions to linguistic studies and national identity.

The legacy of Belostenec and the Pauline order's educational and cultural impact was further solidified by the subsequent suppression of the order by Austro-Hungarian authorities, which was viewed as a detrimental blow to Croatian national interests. This historical context emphasizes the significance of Belostenec's work not only in the realm of language but also in the struggle for Croatian identity during a period marked by political strife and transformation.