Historical Events tagged with "18th century"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Military & Warfare

Frederick the Great's Defeat at Kolín

June 18th, 1757 267 years ago

The Battle of Kolín saw Prussian forces under Frederick the Great face off against the Austrian army commanded by Field Marshal Count Leopold Joseph von Daun. Taking place near the town of Kolín in Bohemia, this critical engagement occurred during the Seven Years' War. Frederick aimed to secure a decisive victory to maintain Prussian dominance in the region. However, the Austrians executed a successful defensive strategy, leading to a significant setback for the Prussian forces.

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Military & Warfare

Prussian and Austrian Forces Clash in Prague

May 6th, 1757 267 years ago

A fierce battle between Prussian and Austrian armies took place in Prague during the Seven Years' War, highlighting the strategic significance of the city. Austrian forces led by Leopold von Daun confronted the Prussian army commanded by Frederick the Great. The engagement lasted several hours, resulting in tactical gains for the Prussians despite the chaotic conditions and fierce resistance from Austrian troops. The confrontation marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict for control over central Europe.

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Health & Medicine

Christopher Smart's Admission to Asylum

May 6th, 1757 267 years ago

Christopher Smart, an English poet, was admitted to St Luke's Hospital for Lunatics in London where he began a six-year stay. His mental health struggles were exacerbated by his financial and personal difficulties, leading to this confinement. Smart was known for his passionate poetry, especially 'Jubilate Agno,' which reflects his deep religious sentiments and philosophical musings despite the turmoil in his mind.

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Military & Warfare

Kittanning Expedition in French and Indian War

September 8th, 1756 268 years ago

The Kittanning Expedition was a military operation during the French and Indian War, where British forces aimed to disrupt Native American raids on frontier settlements. Led by Colonel John Armstrong, they targeted the village of Kittanning in present-day Pennsylvania. The goal was to retaliate against the Delawares, who had been attacking British settlements. Armstrong's forces managed to surprise the village, leading to significant destruction and loss of life.

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Religion & Philosophy

Royal Protection Granted to Beaterio

November 25th, 1755 269 years ago

King Ferdinand VI of Spain granted royal protection to the Beaterio de la Compañia de Jesus, which later became known as the Congregation of the Religious of the Virgin Mary. This gesture recognized the contributions of this religious community in Spain and sought to enhance its stability and influence within the Catholic Church. The support allowed the group to continue their social and educational efforts despite various challenges faced during that period.

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Politics & Government

Forceful Deportation of Acadians Begins

August 10th, 1755 269 years ago

Under the command of Charles Lawrence, British authorities initiated the forceful deportation of the Acadian population from Nova Scotia. This operation involved rounding up Acadians, who had settled in the region for generations, and transporting them to various locations, including the Thirteen Colonies and France. The deportations arose from a growing anti-French sentiment amid the subsequent escalating tensions of the French and Indian War, compelling the British to eliminate potential sources of rebellion or insurrection among the Acadians.

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Education & Academia

Publication of Samuel Johnson's Dictionary

April 15th, 1755 269 years ago

Samuel Johnson's 'A Dictionary of the English Language' was published in London, marking a significant contribution to English lexicography. This landmark work, which took nearly nine years to compile, provided definitions, etymologies, and usage examples for thousands of words. Johnson's meticulous approach to language and his ambition to organize English vocabulary set a new standard. The dictionary was a substantial effort for both Johnson and his team, showcasing the importance of the English language during this period and influencing future references.

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Science & Technology

Benjamin Franklin's Lightning Experiment

June 15th, 1752 272 years ago

Benjamin Franklin conducted his famous kite experiment to demonstrate the electrical nature of lightning. Utilizing a kite, a key, and a storm, he sought evidence that lightning is a form of electricity. The experiment took place in Pennsylvania, capturing the imagination of many and advancing the understanding of electricity.

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Religion & Philosophy

Pope Benedict XIV establishes Udine and Gorizia

July 6th, 1751 273 years ago

Pope Benedict XIV suppressed the Patriarchate of Aquileia and created the Archdiocese of Udine and Gorizia, reallocating ecclesiastical authority in the region. This restructuring aimed to streamline church governance and reduce the influence of local powers. It was part of broader reform efforts initiated by the Pope to centralize authority within the Catholic Church and improve administration across territories, especially in northern Italy.

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