What Happened This Year 1698

Historical Events from This Year 1698

Science & Technology

Thomas Savery patents first steam engine

July 2nd, 1698 326 years ago

Thomas Savery, an English inventor, patented the first steam engine designed for pumping water. The patent described a machine that used steam pressure to create a vacuum and draw water from mines. Invented to address flooding in mines, this innovative device was pivotal in the evolution of steam power and mechanical engineering. Savery's engine laid groundwork for future developments in steam technology.

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Politics & Government

Tax on Beards Imposed by Tsar Peter I

September 5th, 1698 326 years ago

Tsar Peter I of Russia enforced a beard tax to promote Westernization among his nobility while excluding clergy and peasantry. The tax aimed to modernize Russia and diminish traditional customs associated with beard-wearing, which was common in Russia at the time. This regulation required the nobility to pay for the privilege of sporting facial hair, reflecting the broader cultural changes Peter sought to enforce in his efforts to Europeanize Russian society.

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Born in 1698 (View all 11)

Pietro Metastasio

Italian poet and librettist of opera
Born
January 3rd, 1698 327 years ago
Died
1782 243 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1698, a prominent figure in the world of opera, especially during the 18th century. Worked primarily as a librettist, crafting texts for numerous operas that contributed to the development of the genre. Held the position of court poet in Vienna for much of his career, influencing the musical landscape of the period. His works, characterized by lyrical beauty and dramatic depth, became essential reading for composers of his time and later.

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Pierre Bouguer

French mathematician and geophysicist
Born
February 16th, 1698 327 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1758 266 years ago — 60 years old

A mathematician and geophysicist contributed to the development of hydrostatics and geodesy. His work included methods for measuring the shape and density of the Earth, as well as advancements in the understanding of light. Bouguer published 'Essai d'Optique' in 1729, laying foundational concepts in optical science. He also worked on the principles of buoyancy and is regarded as a pioneer in the study of gravity.

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Prokop Diviš

Czech scientist and inventor of the lightning rod
Born
March 26th, 1698 326 years ago
Died
1765 260 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1698, a Czech priest and scientist made significant contributions to the study of electricity. He developed one of the earliest lightning rods, a device designed to protect buildings from lightning strikes. His work in physics and experiments with electricity laid foundational principles for future electrical studies. In addition to his inventions, he held various clerical positions throughout his life, intertwining his scientific endeavors with his religious duties. He also engaged in public demonstrations of electricity, which gained attention during that era, furthering interest in electrical phenomena.

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Henry Baker

English naturalist and entomologist
Born
May 8th, 1698 326 years ago
Died
1774 251 years ago — 76 years old

Significant contributions to natural history occurred through extensive studies of insects and their habitats. Published works included 'The Microscope Made Easy' which popularized the use of microscopes for scientific exploration. Engaged in the study of natural curiosities, Baker cataloged various species, significantly advancing the understanding of entomology in the 18th century. He played a crucial role in the development of early microscopy and naturalist practices, influencing subsequent generations of scientists and naturalists.

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Pierre Louis Maupertuis

Mathematician and philosopher
Born
July 17th, 1698 326 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1759 265 years ago — 61 years old

A mathematician and philosopher, contributions included work in mathematics, physics, and biology. Maupertuis played a key role in the development of the principle of least action, which became significant in physics. His expeditions in the 18th century sought to determine the shape of the Earth by measuring meridian arcs in Lapland and Peru. He engaged with the philosophical discussions of his time, notably in relation to determinism and the laws of nature. His writings included reflections on the nature of society and aesthetics.

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François Francoeur

Violinist and composer of 'Symphonies'
Born
September 8th, 1698 326 years ago
Died
1787 238 years ago — 89 years old

Born in France in 1698, a prominent violinist and composer contributed significantly to Baroque music. Served as a violinist at the Académie Royale de Musique and participated in the establishment of the French violin school. Composed numerous works including concertos and symphonies. Engaged in violin teaching and influenced the next generation of musicians.

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People Who Died in 1698 (View all 11)

Louis-Sébastien Le Nain de Tillemont

French priest and ecclesiastical historian
Born
November 30th, 1637 387 years ago
Died
January 10th, 1698 327 years ago — 60 years old

A French priest and historian, dedicated much of his life to the study of early Christianity and ecclesiastical history. The multi-volume work, Histoire ecclésiastique, documented the history of the Church from the time of the apostles to the end of the 7th century. This extensive historical account was notable for its critical approach and reliance on primary sources, contributing significantly to the field of church history. Lived in the 17th century, maintained a focus on providing accurate chronologies of events in early Christianity and the patristic period.

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Claes Rålamb

Swedish statesman and diplomat
Born
May 8th, 1622 402 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1698 327 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent figure in 17th-century Sweden, served as an influential statesman and diplomat. Held the position of Envoy Extraordinary to France and participated in various diplomatic missions. Played a vital role in negotiations during the Treaty of Karlowitz. Engaged in the governance of Sweden, contributing to the political landscape of the era. His efforts in diplomacy and statecraft were significant during a tumultuous period in Swedish history.

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Marie Champmeslé

French actress in classic theatre
Born
February 18th, 1642 383 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1698 326 years ago — 56 years old

Originated in the 17th century French theatre, a prominent actress at the Hôtel de Bourgogne in Paris. Champmeslé gained acclaim for performances in tragedies and became a leading figure in the works of playwrights such as Racine. Notably partnered with the influential actor, she contributed to the development of French dramaturgy and the popularity of classic theatre forms. Her interpretation of roles in plays like 'Andromaque' helped define theatrical expression during the period.

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Johann Heinrich Heidegger

Swiss theologian and author
Born
July 1st, 1633 391 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1698 326 years ago — 65 years old

A Swiss theologian, active during the 17th century, contributed significantly to Reformed theology. Held the position of the rector at the University of Zurich. Wrote extensively on theological topics, with a focus on the relationship between faith and reason. His works engaged with contemporary religious debates and advocated for the Protestant cause. Influenced the theological landscape of his time through teachings and publications.

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William Molyneux

Irish philosopher and writer
Born
1656 369 years ago
Died
October 11th, 1698 326 years ago — 42 years old

A prominent philosopher and writer in the late 17th century. Contributed significantly to discussions on perception and knowledge. Engaged in correspondence with contemporary philosophers, including John Locke. Authored works that explored the nature of knowledge and the philosophy of perception.

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Rasmus Bartholin

Danish physician and mathematician
Born
August 13th, 1625 399 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1698 326 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of medicine and mathematics. Served as a professor at the University of Copenhagen. Played a crucial role in promoting scientific inquiry in Denmark. Conducted research in optics and is remembered for Bartholin's law regarding the refraction of light. His work laid the groundwork for future developments in the understanding of light and vision.

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