What Happened This Year 1703

Born in 1703

Joseph-Hector Fiocco

Flemish violinist and composer
Born
January 20th, 1703 322 years ago
Died
1741 284 years ago — 38 years old

Born in 1703, a violinist and composer engaged in Baroque music. Contributed significantly to chamber music and violin concertos. Served in the court of the Duke of Bavaria and became a prominent figure in Antwerp's music scene. Worked on several instrumental compositions and contributed to various musical forms.

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François Bigot

French politician and colonial administrator
Born
January 30th, 1703 322 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1778 247 years ago — 74 years old

Served as a prominent colonial administrator during the 18th century. Governed the French colony of Canada and played a crucial role in the administration of French territories in North America. Oversaw economic activities and trade practices, including the fur trade, which was vital for the colony's economy. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to strengthen France's hold on its North American territories.

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Gilbert Tennent

Irish-American Presbyterian minister
Born
February 5th, 1703 322 years ago
Died
1764 261 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1703, a Presbyterian minister and theologian contributed significantly to the religious revival in colonial America, specifically through the Great Awakening. His sermons emphasized the need for personal faith and emotional connection to God, countering the established religious practices of the time. Tennent was instrumental in founding the Log College in Pennsylvania, which served as a precursor to Princeton University, grooming a generation of New Light ministers. His work encouraged religious fervor and established a legacy in American religious thought.

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Lord Sidney Beauclerk

English politician and member of Parliament
Born
February 27th, 1703 322 years ago
Died
1744 281 years ago — 41 years old

Born in 1703, a prominent English politician during the early 18th century. Served as a Member of Parliament for several constituencies, including the City of London. Took an active role in legislative affairs, participating in significant debates and advancing political interests in Parliament. His political career spanned a time of considerable change in England's governance and societal structure, influencing policies and representing his constituents in crucial discussions.

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Vasily Trediakovsky

Russian poet and playwright
Born
March 5th, 1703 322 years ago
Died
August 17th, 1768 256 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1703, contributed significantly to Russian literature and poetry. Established a connection between Russian and Western literary traditions. Authored poetry and plays that influenced subsequent generations of writers. Promoted the use of the Russian language in literature alongside classical forms and themes. Engaged in translating works from various European languages, which expanded the literary repertoire in Russia.

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John Wesley

Cleric and theologian, founder of Methodism
Born
June 28th, 1703 321 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1791 234 years ago — 87 years old

An English cleric and theologian, played a pivotal role in the religious movement that led to the establishment of Methodism. Through preaching and organizing, this figure emphasized the need for personal faith and social justice. Initiated outdoor preaching, reaching diverse audiences and establishing Methodist societies. Authored numerous theological works, with 'Complete Works' being a significant compilation of teachings and sermons. His influence extended beyond theology into social reform, promoting education and healthcare.

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Lorenzo Ricci

Italian religious leader, Superior General
Born
August 2nd, 1703 321 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1775 249 years ago — 72 years old

Served as the 18th Superior General of the Society of Jesus from 1758 until death in 1775. Led the Jesuits during a time of significant suppression of the order in various countries. Navigated the challenges posed by secular powers, including the expulsion of Jesuits from territories like France, Portugal, and Spain. Contributed to the development of Jesuit educational and missionary activities despite the order's declining influence by the end of his leadership.

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François Boucher

French painter and decorative artist
Born
September 29th, 1703 321 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1770 254 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1703, influential in the Rococo style, specialized in painting idyllic scenes and themes of mythology. Worked extensively as a set designer, contributing to theatrical productions. Held the position of Director of the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture in France. His works often depicted romanticized landscapes and subjects drawn from classical literature and French mythology. Boucher's use of color and light was noted for its vibrancy and whimsy, significantly shaping the visual culture of 18th century France.

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Jonathan Edwards

Minister and theologian
Born
October 5th, 1703 321 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1758 267 years ago — 54 years old

An influential English minister and theologian, played a key role in the First Great Awakening. Focused on themes of revival and religious fervor, wrote numerous works that explored the nature of sin and grace. Produced the famous sermon 'Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God', which underscored the necessity of personal redemption. Held a prominent position at the Congregational Church in Northampton, Massachusetts, and later became president of Princeton University. His philosophical writings also contributed to American Enlightenment thought.

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