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.

Politics & Government

Tarabai Imprisons Rajaram II Over Peshwa Position

November 24th, 1750 274 years ago

Tarabai, the regent of the Maratha Empire, took decisive action when Rajaram II of Satara refused to remove Balaji Baji Rao from his position as peshwa. This conflict stemmed from political tensions within the Maratha leadership. Tarabai's authority was challenged, leading her to imprison Rajaram II in a move to assert her control over the empire's administration, signaling the complexities of power dynamics in this period of Indian history.

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Politics & Government

Riots Erupt in Lhasa Following Tibetan Regent's Murder

November 11th, 1750 274 years ago

Riots broke out in Lhasa following the assassination of the Tibetan regent, the Fifth Dalai Lama's representative, which ignited public outrage. The circumstances surrounding the incident were clouded in mystery, leading to escalating tensions among the populace. Protesters took to the streets, demanding accountability and justice as the city became engulfed in chaos. The unrest was a reflection of deeper frustrations regarding political conditions in Tibet and dissatisfaction with the ruling class’s behavior at the time.

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Military & Warfare

Admiral George Anson's Fleet Defeats French Navy

May 14th, 1747 277 years ago

A British fleet under Admiral George Anson achieved a decisive victory against the French at the First Battle of Cape Finisterre. This naval confrontation showcased the strategic prowess of Anson, whose fleet effectively engaged and outmaneuvered the opposing forces. The encounter underscored the ongoing maritime conflicts during the war and significantly impacted naval supremacy in the region.

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Education & Academia

The College of New Jersey Receives Its Charter

October 22nd, 1746 278 years ago

The College of New Jersey, which would later become Princeton University, received its charter on this day. Authorized by the New Jersey legislature, this institution aimed to provide education in the arts and sciences, reflecting the growing importance of higher education in colonial America. The charter laid the groundwork for the school's mission to train clergy and leaders in the American colonies.

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Military & Warfare

The Battle of Culloden Unfolds in Scotland

April 16th, 1746 278 years ago

The Battle of Culloden was fought between the Jacobite forces, who were seeking to restore the Stuart monarchy, and the British Hanoverian army led by William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland. Located near Inverness, Scotland, the battle took place in the aftermath of a series of Jacobite uprisings and aimed to secure the British crown's hold on Scotland. The Jacobites, supported by France, faced a decisive defeat, resulting in significant shifts in power within the British Isles.

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Military & Warfare

Nader Shah Defeats Ottoman Forces at Kars

August 19th, 1745 279 years ago

In a decisive battle during the Ottoman–Persian War, Persian forces commanded by Nader Shah achieved a significant victory over the Ottoman army at Kars. The engagement marked a turning point in the ongoing conflict between the two empires. Nader Shah's strategic brilliance and superior tactics led to the Ottoman army's rout, demonstrating his military prowess and solidifying his reputation as a formidable leader. The victory at Kars not only boosted Persian morale but also shifted the balance of power in favor of Persia in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Prince Charles Edward Stuart Raises His Standard

August 19th, 1745 279 years ago

In August 1745, Prince Charles Edward Stuart raised his standard at Glenfinnan, marking the start of the Second Jacobite Rebellion known as 'the 45.' He rallied supporters to restore his father, James Francis Edward Stuart, to the throne of Britain. The event garnered significant attention, symbolizing the hope of the Jacobites for a return to power. The picturesque Glenfinnan Monument commemorates this pivotal moment in Scottish history.

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Military & Warfare

Prussian Victory at Hohenfriedberg

June 4th, 1745 279 years ago

Frederick the Great's Prussian army achieved a decisive victory over an Austrian army led by Prince Charles Alexander of Lorraine during the War of the Austrian Succession. This battle took place near the village of Hohenfriedberg, in Silesia. Fredrick's strategic use of terrain and disciplined military tactics played a crucial role in outmaneuvering the larger Austrian forces, leading to significant losses for the Austrians and consolidating Prussian dominance in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Court-Martial of Royal Navy Captains

February 22nd, 1744 281 years ago

Following the Battle of Toulon during the War of the Austrian Succession, several Royal Navy captains faced court-martial for their performance. The British fleet, commanded by Admiral Edward Vernon, experienced significant losses in the Mediterranean. In response to the perceived failure of leadership and military strategies, the British Parliament mandated revisions to the Articles of War, aiming to improve naval discipline and command accountability. These developments had a profound effect on naval operations moving forward.

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