What Happened This Year 1715

Born in 1715

Elisabeth Christine of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel-Bevern

Duchess and patron of the arts
Born
November 8th, 1715 310 years ago
Died
1797 229 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1715, a member of the House of Brunswick, became the Duchess of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel-Bevern through marriage. Instrumental in promoting arts and culture within her court. Fostered relationships with artists and intellectuals during her tenure as Duchess, creating a vibrant cultural environment. Spent much of her life in exile after her husband’s deposition, but continued to influence and support artistic endeavors from afar.

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Dorothea Erxleben

First female medical doctor in Germany
Born
November 13th, 1715 310 years ago
Died
June 13th, 1762 263 years ago — 46 years old

Achieved a medical degree in 1754, becoming the first woman in Germany to earn a medical doctorate. Studied at the University of Halle under male peers and faced significant barriers due to gender discrimination. Published a thesis addressing women's health issues and advocated for women's education in medicine, emphasizing the importance of training women as physicians.

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Pierre Charles Le Monnier

French astronomer and author of works
Born
November 23rd, 1715 310 years ago
Died
1799 227 years ago — 84 years old

Contributions to astronomy included work on the orbits of comets and observations of eclipses. Authored several significant texts on observational astronomy, which provided insight into celestial mechanics. Served as the director of the Paris Observatory and was involved in measuring the arc of the meridian for the meridian project in France. Participated in important scientific discussions and contributed to advancements in meteorology.

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Philippe de Noailles

French general and military leader
Born
December 27th, 1715 310 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1794 231 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1715, a prominent French general served in multiple military campaigns during the 18th century. Gained recognition as a capable leader during the War of the Austrian Succession and later the Seven Years' War. Held the position of Marshal of France, an honor awarded to military leaders for outstanding service. Known for strategic military planning and effective leadership on the battlefield, contributing to various victories for French forces.

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Joseph Marie Terray

French economist and Controller-General
Born
1715 311 years ago
Died
February 18th, 1778 247 years ago — 63 years old

French economist and politician served as Controller-General of Finances. In this role, implemented measures to stabilize French finances during a period of economic distress. Worked on tax reforms and sought to improve the efficiency of revenue collection. Advocated for fiscal policies aimed at reducing national debt and addressing the ongoing financial crisis. His tenure included significant challenges stemming from the costs of wars and the needs of the monarchy.

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Peter II of Russia

Russian Emperor, grandson of Peter the Great
Born
1715 311 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1730 296 years ago — 15 years old

Ascended to the throne at the age of 11 following the death of his grandfather, Peter the Great. His reign lasted only three years and ended with his untimely death at age 14. Accumulated much of the imperial power established by his grandfather but faced significant challenges from court factions and influence of regents. The youth of Peter II and his brief reign marked a significant transition for the Russian monarchy.

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John Hawkesworth

English journalist and author
Born
1715 311 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1773 252 years ago — 58 years old

Contributed significantly to journalism and literature in the 18th century. Focused on travel writing and news reporting, producing works that combined adventure with informative content. Collaborated with notable figures of the time, acquiring a reputation for insightful commentary and detailed accounts. Authored books that chronicled explorations and voyages, providing a window into contemporary life and culture. Honored by peers in literary circles for impactful writings, especially related to the expeditions of James Cook.

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Charles Saunders

Admiral and politician in England
Born
1715 311 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1775 250 years ago — 60 years old

An English admiral and politician played significant roles during the Seven Years' War. Served as the commander of the British fleet in North America and contributed to the capture of Quebec in 1759. Transitioned to political service and held various positions in the British government, influencing naval and colonial policies.

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Jacques Duphly

French harpsichordist and composer
Born
1715 311 years ago
Died
July 15th, 1789 236 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent harpsichord player and composer active in the 18th century. Duphly contributed significantly to the development of French harpsichord music. His compositions display intricate counterpoint and rich harmonies, exemplifying the Galant style that characterized the period. Duphly published several collections of harpsichord music that showcased his skill and creativity. His works were well received and influenced many contemporaries in the genre. The last years of Duphly's life coincided with the tumultuous period of the French Revolution, ultimately leading to his passing in 1789.

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