What Happened This Year 1699

Historical Events from This Year 1699

Politics & Government

Ottoman Empire Cedes Territory to Christian Powers

January 26th, 1699 326 years ago

The Treaty of Karlowitz marked the first instance of the Ottoman Empire permanently ceding territory to Christian nations. Signing representatives included Grand Vizier Mehmed Köprülü and delegates from Austria, Poland, and Venice. The treaty resulted from years of conflict in the Great Turkish War. Significant territories such as Hungary and Transylvania were transferred, reshaping the balance of power in Europe and reducing Ottoman influence.

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Religion & Philosophy

Greek Catholic Clergy Granted Equal Privileges

February 16th, 1699 326 years ago

The First Leopoldine Diploma was issued by the Holy Roman Emperor, granting the Greek Catholic clergy in the Principality of Transylvania the same rights as their Roman Catholic counterparts. This decree aimed to ensure religious equality and protect the interests of the Greek Catholic Church in a predominantly Roman Catholic region. It marked a significant step in recognizing the diversity of religious practices and served to unify different branches of Christianity under a shared legal framework.

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Religion & Philosophy

Guru Gobind Singh Establishes the Khalsa

March 30th, 1699 325 years ago

Guru Gobind Singh convened a gathering in Anandpur Sahib, Punjab, where he established the Khalsa, a collective of initiated Sikh warriors. In a dramatic ceremony, he invoked the need for a distinct identity among Sikhs, creating a community bound by principles of bravery, equality, and justice. He called upon his followers to unite under the banner of the Khalsa and instilled the vows of commitment to Sikh values. This moment was pivotal in shaping Sikh identity.

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Religion & Philosophy

Formation of the Khalsa Brotherhood

April 13th, 1699 325 years ago

Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa, a brotherhood of Warrior-Saints, unifying Sikhs under a common identity and code of conduct. This event took place at Anandpur Sahib in northern India, as Guru Gobind Singh sought to reinforce the martial spirit and spirituality of his followers. He introduced the Five Ks, symbolizing commitment to the faith and community, ultimately transforming the Sikh faith into a collective body with shared values. The Khalsa served to empower the Sikh community, ensuring protection against oppression and guiding them in moral conduct.

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Born in 1699 (View all 14)

Osman III

Ottoman sultan during the 18th century
Born
January 2nd, 1699 326 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1757 267 years ago — 58 years old

Sultan reigned from 1754 to 1757. Came to power during a period marked by internal strife and external pressures on the empire. Focused on reforming the administrative aspects of the empire. Also dealt with challenges posed by the Russian Empire. His reign was short and characterized by attempts to stabilize the empire amidst ongoing conflicts. Died in 1757.

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Johann Adolph Hasse

German singer and composer known for operas
Born
March 25th, 1699 325 years ago
Died
December 16th, 1783 241 years ago — 84 years old

Born in 1699, a prominent figure in 18th-century opera, contributed significantly to the development of Italian opera in Germany. Studied in Naples and became associated with the Neapolitan school. Held positions in various European courts, including those in Dresden and Venice. Composed over 20 operas, which were well received during his lifetime. His works often featured elaborate vocal lines and dramatic orchestration, showcasing the style of the time. His influence extended to later composers, shaping the evolution of opera.

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Sebastião José de Carvalho e Melo

1st Marquis of Pombal, Portuguese Prime Minister
Born
May 13th, 1699 325 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1782 242 years ago — 82 years old

Held the office of Prime Minister of Portugal from 1750 to 1777. Implemented significant reforms in education, economics, and administration following the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Advocated for the reduction of the power of the Church and centralized royal authority, thereby modernizing the state. Initiated infrastructure projects and promoted trade, contributing to Portugal's recovery and growth in the 18th century.

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Hans Joachim von Zieten

Prussian general with military achievements
Born
May 14th, 1699 325 years ago
Died
1786 239 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1699, this Prussian general served with distinction during the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. His military career included significant contributions to the Prussian army's strategies and operations. Renowned for leadership on the battlefield, he participated in several crucial battles, showcasing tactical prowess. He gained recognition for his role in the Battle of Rossbach, which was a decisive victory for Prussia. His legacy as a military leader solidified his reputation within the Prussian military establishment, where he held various significant commands throughout his career, contributing to the development of military tactics in Prussian warfare.

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Marie Thérèse Rodet Geoffrin

French salonnière and cultural patron
Born
June 26th, 1699 325 years ago
Died
1777 248 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent figure in the French Enlightenment, a salonnière facilitated gatherings of intellectuals, artists, and writers in Paris. Established her salon in the mid-18th century, attracting influential thinkers such as Voltaire and Diderot. Played a significant role in the promotion of Enlightenment ideas and served as a key patron for the Encyclopédie.

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Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin

French painter and educator renowned for still lifes
Born
November 2nd, 1699 325 years ago
Died
December 6th, 1779 245 years ago — 80 years old

An influential French painter and educator, contributed significantly to the genre of still life painting in the 18th century. Worked primarily in Paris, focusing on everyday subjects with a unique ability to capture light and texture. Created celebrated works that emphasized the beauty of domesticity and humble items. These paintings displayed a masterful use of color and composition, which garnered attention and respect among contemporaries and later generations. Additionally, engaged in teaching, influencing future artists through a dedication to the craft and technique.

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People Who Died in 1699 (View all 13)

Obadiah Walker

English historian and academic
Born
1616 409 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1699 326 years ago — 83 years old

A prominent historian and academic in England, contributed to the study of history and antiquities. Served as a master at Emmanuel College, Cambridge. Played a significant role in the scholarly community during the 17th century, focusing on historical texts and their interpretations. Engaged in various academic discussions and wrote extensively on historical topics, influencing future generations of historians.

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Charles Paulet

1st Duke of Bolton, English politician
Born
1625 400 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1699 326 years ago — 74 years old

Served as the 1st Duke of Bolton and held significant political roles in England during the late 17th century. Appointed as Lord Lieutenant of Hampshire, managed local governance and represented the interests of the monarchy in the region. His tenure included support for the Whig party and active participation in key political matters of the time.

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Peder Griffenfeld

Danish politician and statesman
Born
August 24th, 1635 389 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1699 326 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent figure in Danish politics during the late 17th century, held significant influence in administrative reforms and governance. Served as chancellor from 1672, overseeing various aspects of the Danish state. Involved in foreign policy, particularly in relation to Sweden. Engaged in the promotion of trade and commerce, contributing to the economic growth of Denmark during this period. However, faced political challenges leading to imprisonment and subsequent exile.

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Jean Racine

French playwright and poet, author of Phèdre
Born
December 22nd, 1639 385 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1699 325 years ago — 59 years old

Racine became a prominent figure in French classical tragedy during the 17th century. He studied at Port-Royal des Champs, where he developed a strong interest in classical literature. Rising to fame with plays such as 'Andromaque' and 'Phèdre', Racine's works showcased emotional depth and complex characters. His tragedies often drew on themes from Greek mythology and classical history. In addition to writing plays, Racine held a position as a royal historiographer under King Louis XIV. His contributions to theatrical literature influenced subsequent generations of playwrights and established a standard for dramatic writing in France.

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Lucas Achtschellinck

Belgian painter and educator
Born
January 16th, 1626 399 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1699 325 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1626, this individual became a significant figure in the art world through both painting and educational contributions. Specialized in the technique of grisaille, which imitates sculpture through painting, gained recognition for works that displayed mastery in depicting light and shadow. Held a prominent position in the educational sector, influencing a generation of artists and educators through detailed instruction in the aspects of painting and drawing.

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Sir Edward Petre

English politician and baronet
Born
1631 394 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1699 325 years ago — 68 years old

Served as a prominent English politician in the late 17th century. Held the title of 3rd Baronet, inheriting the title from his father. Engaged in various political activities during a time of significant change in England, including the transition of power following the Glorious Revolution. Involved in parliamentary matters and associated with royalist sentiments. Contributed to political discourse during a complex period in English history, shaping the landscape of the political environment of the time.

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