What Happened This Year 1721

Born in 1721

Johann Nikolaus Götz

German poet and author, renowned for "The Fruitful Harvest"
Born
July 9th, 1721 303 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1781 243 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1721, a significant poet and author from Germany, contributed to German literature during the Enlightenment period. Produced several works that reflect the themes of the time, focusing on nature, morality, and humanity. His notable work, "The Fruitful Harvest," gained attention and showcased an innovative approach to poetic form. Götz was also involved in the literary community, engaging with contemporaries and influencing upcoming writers. His contributions to poetry included various forms, enriching the cultural landscape of the era.

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Granville Leveson-Gower

English politician, Lord President of the Council
Born
August 4th, 1721 303 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1803 221 years ago — 82 years old

A prominent English politician served in various governmental roles during the 18th century. Held the title of Lord President of the Council, overseeing significant legislative functions. Contributed to the House of Lords and played a role in shaping policies of the time. Engaged in various political endeavors that aligned with the interests of his constituents and the monarchy.

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George Hervey

English soldier and politician
Born
August 31st, 1721 303 years ago
Died
1775 250 years ago — 54 years old

Born in 1721, a significant military figure and politician held the title of 2nd Earl of Bristol. Served as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, overseeing various affairs and governance during a notable period. Involved in military campaigns and became an influential figure in English aristocracy. His tenure in Ireland included efforts to address complex political and social issues of the time.

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Fredrik Henrik af Chapman

Admiral and shipbuilder specializing in naval architecture
Born
September 9th, 1721 303 years ago
Died
August 19th, 1808 216 years ago — 86 years old

This individual contributed to the advancement of naval architecture and shipbuilding techniques. Born in 1721 in Sweden, engaged in the development of practical methods for ship design. Affiliated with the Swedish Navy, held the rank of admiral. Published influential works on shipbuilding that served as references for future generations of ship designers. Implemented innovative designs that enhanced the functionality and durability of naval vessels.

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Eliphalet Dyer

Colonel and American politician
Born
September 14th, 1721 303 years ago
Died
May 13th, 1807 217 years ago — 85 years old

Served as a colonel during the American Revolution and held various political positions in colonial Connecticut. Practiced law and was a prominent figure in the early governance of the state. Participated in the establishment of local government structures and contributed to legislative processes.

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William Robertson

Scottish historian and author of works
Born
September 19th, 1721 303 years ago
Died
1793 232 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1721, a significant Scottish historian, contributed to historical literature with influential works. Focused on subjects such as Scotland's history and the history of America. Served as principal of the University of Edinburgh and published several important texts, which garnered attention and established a scholarly reputation. Worked on narratives that addressed the growth of empires and the history of the American Revolution.

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Mark Akenside

English physician and poet
Born
November 9th, 1721 303 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1770 254 years ago — 48 years old

Born in 1721, this individual practiced medicine and produced poetry. As a physician, contributions to the medical field included writings that merged science and literature. The poetry often focused on themes of nature and human experience, with notable works such as 'The Pleasures of the Imagination,' which highlighted the relationship between creativity and perception. This individual also became a prominent figure in the literary circles of the 18th century, influencing contemporaries with both medical and poetic insights.

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James Elphinston

Scottish philologist and linguist
Born
December 6th, 1721 303 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1809 215 years ago — 87 years old

Born in Scotland, this individual contributed significantly to the study of language and phonetics. Focused on the correct pronunciation of English, engaged in efforts to reform English spelling. Developed a system of phonetic notation, aiding in the teaching of pronunciation. Published works such as 'The Universal Grammar' and 'A New and Accurate Method of Teaching Pronunciation' that influenced language education. Held the position of a schoolmaster and was involved in various educational reforms during his career.

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Guillaume-Chrétien de Lamoignon de Malesherbes

French minister and politician
Born
December 6th, 1721 303 years ago
Died
April 23rd, 1794 231 years ago — 72 years old

Served as a prominent minister under Louis XVI. Focused on reforming the French judicial system and advocating for civil liberties. Defended key philosophers such as Voltaire and Rousseau. Arrested during the French Revolution and executed in 1794 for his opposition to the regime.

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