Born in 1710
Giovanni Battista Pergolesi
An Italian composer, violinist, and organist. Composed several operas and sacred music, with a focus on the emerging opera buffa genre. Best recognized for the intermezzo 'La serva padrona' and the religious work 'Stabat Mater'. His compositions influenced the development of Italian opera during the 18th century.
Continue ReadingLouis XV of France
Ruled as King of France from 1715 to 1774. Ascended to the throne at the age of five, following the death of Louis XIV. His reign was marked by increasing centralization of power and significant engagement in wars. Presided over military campaigns during the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. Faced challenges such as growing dissent among the nobility and issues related to financial management. His legacy includes the establishment of the French Enlightenment, promoting arts and architecture in Paris, particularly exemplified by the construction and expansion of the Palace of Versailles. Died in 1774, leaving a complex legacy that influenced the subsequent political landscape of France.
Continue ReadingThomas Arne
An English composer and educator, this individual significantly contributed to the development of English music in the 18th century. His work spanned various musical forms, but compositions for the theater, particularly ballad operas, stood out prominently. Most recognized for the patriotic song 'Rule, Britannia!', this piece premiered in 1740 and became an emblem of British national identity. In addition to vocal music, he composed instrumental music and provided music for prominent theatrical productions of his time. His influence extended beyond composition, as he also played a role in music education, shaping the careers of several musicians in his circle.
Continue ReadingCaffarelli
Active during the 18th century, this individual gained recognition in the fields of opera and singing. Notable for performing in various operas, particularly in works by renowned composers such as Handel and Porpora. Achieved acclaim for both vocal prowess and stage presence. This individual was primarily associated with Italian opera and performed in prestigious venues across Europe. Contributions included a significant impact on the development of opera seria, influencing both contemporary and future performers.
Continue ReadingWilliam Cullen
Contributed significantly to the fields of medicine and chemistry in the 18th century. Developed a systematic approach to clinical observation and introduced methods for measuring body temperature. Established the first medical school at the University of Edinburgh, which became a model for medical education. Published influential works, including 'First Lines of the Practice of Physic', which detailed clinical treatments. His teachings influenced a generation of physicians.
Continue ReadingHenry Erskine
Born in 1710, this individual served as the 10th Earl of Buchan. Active in Scottish politics, he participated in notable parliamentary activities during the 18th century. The Earl advocated for various reforms and represented the interests of his constituents in the House of Lords. He held significant influence in local governance and engaged in cultural endeavors, contributing to the preservation of Scottish heritage. His tenure reflected the complexities of the political landscape during this period, particularly in relation to Scotland's position within Great Britain.
Continue ReadingJames Ferguson
Birth occurred in 1710 in Scotland. Ferguson specialized in astronomy and wrote several influential books on the subject. His notable works include 'Astronomy Explained Upon Sir Isaac Newton's Principles' and 'The Use of the Globes', which provided valuable insights into celestial mechanics and navigation. Ferguson also contributed to the popularization of astronomical concepts through lectures and demonstrations. He was an early advocate for the use of instruments in observational astronomy, and his writings helped educate the public about astronomical phenomena.
Continue ReadingThomas Reid
A prominent figure in the Scottish Enlightenment, contributed significantly to philosophy, particularly in the fields of epistemology and moral philosophy. Established the philosophy of common sense, emphasizing immediate perception as a foundation for knowledge. Served as a professor at the University of Aberdeen and later at the University of Glasgow. Wrote influential works, including 'An Inquiry into the Human Mind on the Principles of Common Sense' and 'Essays on the Intellectual Powers of Man'. Engaged in philosophical debates with other Enlightenment thinkers, shaping the discourse of the time.
Continue ReadingJohann Kaspar Basselet von La Rosée
Served as a general in the Bavarian army during the late 18th century. Participated in military campaigns against France during the revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Held significant commands and was involved in strategic planning within the Bavarian military structure. Participated in various reorganization efforts of the army to adapt to changing warfare tactics influenced by the evolving European conflicts.
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