What Happened This Year 1704

Born in 1704

Louis d'Orléans

Duke of Orléans and regent of France
Born
August 4th, 1704 320 years ago
Died
1752 273 years ago — 48 years old

Born in the early 18th century, this individual served as the Duke of Orléans and held significant influence in France during a tumultuous period. Following the death of King Louis XIV, he became the regent for the young King Louis XV. This period was marked by political instability characterized by factional power struggles. The duke played a crucial role in managing the affairs of the French court and sought to navigate the challenges posed by both the monarchy and emerging social movements. His regency is often noted for attempts to stabilize the economy and maintaining the authority of the crown. He passed away in 1752, leaving a legacy tied to the complexities of French monarchy and governance.

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Johann Andreas Segner

German mathematician and physicist
Born
October 9th, 1704 320 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1777 247 years ago — 72 years old

A mathematician, physicist, and physician contributed significantly to several areas of science during the 18th century. Developed the concept of the Segner wheel, an early water turbine, providing a foundation for the study of hydraulics and fluid mechanics. Published works in mathematics that included the 'Mathematica' and served as a professor in various universities, influencing education and research in physics. Engaged in the scientific discourse of his time and contributed to the understanding of various scientific principles.

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John Byng

British Admiral, Commodore Governor
Born
October 29th, 1704 320 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1757 268 years ago — 52 years old

An admiral and politician served as the 11th Commodore Governor of Newfoundland. Held the position during a period of significant naval operations and colonial governance. Engaged in various military campaigns which contributed to the strengthening of British naval presence. Executed strategies that influenced maritime provinces and colonial policies. His career came to an end due to a controversial court-martial resulting from losses in battle.

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Richard Peters

English lawyer and church minister
Born
1704 321 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1776 248 years ago — 72 years old

An English lawyer and church minister, this individual served as the rector of the historic Christ Church in Philadelphia. An advocate for religious tolerance and civic responsibility, he actively participated in local governance and community affairs. Throughout the American Revolutionary War, this individual remained a loyalist, yet continued to provide services to the community amidst considerable strife. The work included support for the Continental Congress, as well as engagement in various local ministries and charities.

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John Wood

English architect, designed The Circus
Born
1704 321 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1754 270 years ago — 50 years old

An English architect, active during the early 18th century, contributed significantly to the development of architectural design in Bath, England. Important works include The Circus and Queen Square, both exemplary of the Georgian architectural style. Wood's designs involved intricate layouts, classical features, and an emphasis on proportionality, which became characteristic of the period in Bath. He laid the groundwork for future developments in urban planning and architecture in the city. His approach to architecture integrated functionality with aesthetic appeal, influencing subsequent generations of architects.

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