Historical Events from This Year 1707 (View all 10)
John V proclaims King of Portugal and Algarve
The proclamation of John V as King of Portugal and the Algarves took place in Lisbon, marking a significant moment in Portuguese history. After the death of King Pedro II, John V ascended to the throne amid a time of transition and uncertainty. His rule would eventually lead to a period of relative stability and prosperity, which was characterized by a strong economy and cultural flourishing. The proclamation was celebrated with various ceremonies and indicated the continuation of the Braganza dynasty in Portugal.
Continue ReadingScottish Parliament Ratifies Act of Union
The Scottish Parliament ratified the Act of Union, which united the Kingdom of Scotland and the Kingdom of England into a single sovereign state called Great Britain. This decision was influenced by various factors, including economic pressures and political instability in Scotland. The Act aimed to stabilize the region and enhance trade opportunities with England. The ratification followed a series of intense debates among Scottish lawmakers and was celebrated by some as a pathway to greater prosperity, while others viewed it with skepticism and concern.
Continue ReadingFranco-Spanish Victory at Almansa
A coalition of Britain, the Netherlands, and Portugal was decisively defeated by a Franco-Spanish army at the Battle of Almansa. This battle, crucial in the War of the Spanish Succession, took place in Spain and marked a significant turning point in the conflict. The victory was characterized by the effective tactics employed by the Franco-Spanish forces, under the command of Marshal Claude de Villars, which overwhelmed the coalition army. The loss severely weakened the influence of the allies in the war.
Continue ReadingUnion of England and Scotland Established
The Act of Union united England and Scotland, creating the Kingdom of Great Britain. It was ratified by the Parliaments of both countries, leading to a significant political shift in governance. This act effectively merged the separate legislative bodies into a single Parliament based in Westminster, London. The motivations behind the union included economic benefits and political stability, and it marked a decisive moment in British national identity.
Continue ReadingBritish Fail to Capture Pensacola in Siege
In 1707, the British forces attempted to capture Pensacola, Florida, from Spanish control. This first siege, involving significant military maneuvering, concluded when the British failed to secure the town, leading to a withdrawal. The failed attack highlighted the challenges faced by British military strategy in securing their colonial interests in North America against Spanish defenses.
Continue ReadingFirst Parliament of Great Britain Convened
The first Parliament of the Kingdom of Great Britain convened in 1707, marking a pivotal moment in British history. With the unification of England and Scotland under the Act of Union, this new parliamentary assembly met at the Palace of Westminster in London. It combined the governance of the two separate kingdoms, creating a single parliamentary body with the goal of ensuring greater stability and unity. This parliamentary session was critical for establishing the legislative agenda that would guide the newly formed kingdom's policies and direction.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1707 (View all 9)
Carlo Goldoni
An Italian-French playwright, contributed significantly to the development of Italian comedy. Goldoni standardized the form of Commedia dell'arte, moving away from improvisation towards structured scripts. His works emphasized dialogue and character development, laying groundwork for modern Italian theater. Major plays include 'The Servant of Two Masters' and 'The Venetian Twins', showcasing a blend of humor and social commentary. In his later career, he relocated to France, where he continued to write and adapted his style to suit French tastes.
Continue ReadingMichel Corrette
Born in 1707, an influential organist and composer in France. Contributed significantly to the development of organ music and published numerous works that showcased the capabilities of the instrument. Authored important treatises on music that provided insight into performance practices of the time. Gained recognition for compositions that blended French and Italian musical styles, enhancing the repertoire of organ music during the Baroque period.
Continue ReadingLeonhard Euler
A prominent mathematician and physicist, contributions included advancements in calculus, graph theory, and topology. Introduced the concept of a mathematical function. Developed Euler's formula that establishes a profound connection between complex analysis and trigonometry. Published over 800 papers and books, making significant contributions to various fields of mathematics and mechanics. His work laid the groundwork for modern mathematics, influencing future generations of mathematicians and scientists.
Continue ReadingHenry Fielding
Fielding was an English novelist and playwright during the 18th century. His most acclaimed work, 'The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling', published in 1749, is considered one of the first English novels, establishing the form's early conventions. He also wrote significant plays, contributing to the development of the theatre during the time. Fielding was a prominent figure in the literary scene and critiqued social issues through his writings. Additionally, he was involved in law and public service, serving as a magistrate in London.
Continue ReadingCarl Linnaeus
A Swedish botanist and physician established the system of binomial nomenclature, which is the formal naming convention for organisms. This method organized plant and animal species based on shared characteristics, laying the groundwork for modern taxonomy. Linnaeus published several influential works, including "Species Plantarum," and contributed significantly to the field of botany and natural history. His classification system is still used and studied in biological sciences today.
Continue ReadingLouis I of Spain
Ruled as King of Spain for a brief period in 1724 before abdicating in favor of his father. Ascended to the throne following the death of his grandfather, Philip V. His reign was marked by limited authority and a focus on personal pursuits, leading to a relatively short time in power. Louis I's tenure ended when he abdicated due to the influence of his father, who returned to reclaim the throne. The political landscape during his reign was influenced by the Bourbon dynasty's consolidation of power in Spain.
Continue ReadingPeople Who Died in 1707 (View all 16)
John Dalrymple
Served as a prominent soldier and politician in Scotland during the late 17th century. Held the title of 1st Earl of Stair, contributing significantly to the government of Scotland. Occupied the position of Secretary of State for Scotland, where involvement in political affairs influenced the governance of the nation. Participated in military actions, including the Williamite War in Ireland, supporting the Protestant cause against the Catholic King James II. Dalrymple's political career included navigating complex relationships between Scotland and England during a time of unrest.
Continue ReadingHumphrey Hody
An English scholar and theologian contributed significantly to biblical studies and textual criticism. Hody served as a fellow at All Souls College, Oxford, where he focused on biblical texts and their interpretations. Authored several works, including 'Epistola ad Fratres', addressing religious topics and the history of the early church. Hody's scholarship emphasized the importance of original texts and languages in understanding scripture, influencing future theological studies and providing a foundation for later scholars. His academic endeavors helped lay the groundwork for modern biblical criticism.
Continue ReadingSébastien Le Prestre de Vauban
A prominent French military engineer, contributions centered on the development of fortified cities and modern military architecture. Served as a marshal of France under Louis XIV. Advanced the art of fortification through principles that emphasized geometric design and comprehensive defensive systems. Authored several treatises on military engineering, influencing the design of fortresses in Europe for centuries.
Continue ReadingWillem van de Velde the Younger
A prominent painter specializing in maritime scenes, significant contributions were made to the genre of marine art. Worked primarily in oil, creating detailed and realistic depictions of ships and naval battles. Transitioned from the Netherlands to England, influencing maritime painting in both countries. Collaborated with various notable artists and contributed to the artistic community in London during the late 17th century.
Continue ReadingGeorge Farquhar
An influential actor and playwright contributed significantly to English comedy during the early 18th century. Renowned for the works, 'The Recruiting Officer' and 'The Beaux' Stratagem', which exemplified the intricacies of human relationships and social commentary. His writing is characterized by wit and an understanding of character dynamics. Farquhar faced health challenges throughout his career, which ultimately led to his early death.
Continue ReadingDieterich Buxtehude
An influential organist and composer, a key figure in the development of the North German organ school. Established a significant number of works in the genres of sacred music, particularly chorale settings and cantatas. Spent most of his career in Lübeck, Germany, where served as organist at the Marienkirche. His compositions, characterized by intricate counterpoint and rich harmonies, contributed to the development of Baroque music.
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