What Happened This Year 1724

Historical Events from This Year 1724 (View all 15)

Arts & Culture

First Performance of Bach's Cantata BWV 65

January 6th, 1724 301 years ago

Johann Sebastian Bach's cantata 'Sie werden aus Saba alle kommen,' BWV 65, premiered during the Epiphany season. The work showcases a rich orchestral arrangement and intricate vocal parts, embodying the celebration of the visit of the Magi to the Christ child. Bach, renowned for his mastery in combining theological themes with musical innovation, delivered this cantata at St. Thomas Church in Leipzig, emphasizing the importance of Epiphany in the liturgical calendar.

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Education & Academia

Foundation of the Russian Academy of Sciences

January 28th, 1724 301 years ago

The Russian Academy of Sciences was founded in St. Petersburg by Peter the Great through a Senate decree. Initially named the St. Petersburg Academy of Sciences, its establishment aimed to promote scientific research and education in Russia, reflecting Peter's vision for modernizing the nation and boosting its intellectual capabilities. The academy attracted many prominent scientists and became a leading institution in various fields until its renaming in 1917 after the Russian Revolution.

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Arts & Culture

Debut of Bach's St John Passion in Leipzig

April 7th, 1724 300 years ago

The premiere performance of Johann Sebastian Bach's St John Passion, BWV 245, took place at St. Nicholas Church in Leipzig. This monumental work was composed for the Good Friday Vespers and provided a deep reflection on the Passion of Christ through a blend of choral, orchestral, and solo vocal music. The event is marked as a significant contribution to the genre of sacred music, showcasing Bach's innovative use of instrumentation and intricate counterpoint. The premiere was attended by the congregation, evoking a profound emotional response and marking a pivotal moment in Bach's career.

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Arts & Culture

Bach's First Easter Cantata Premiere

April 10th, 1724 300 years ago

Johann Sebastian Bach conducted the premiere of his cantata 'Erfreut euch, ihr Herzen, BWV 66' at the Nikolaikirche in Leipzig. This cantata marked Bach's first composition specifically for the Easter celebration in his role as Thomaner at St. Thomas Church. It featured festive themes of joy and resurrection, aligning with the Easter message, and included a rich orchestration that demonstrated Bach's innovative style. The performance was well-received by the congregation, showcasing Bach's growing prominence in Leipzig's musical scene.

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Arts & Culture

Bach Premieres His Cantata on the Good Shepherd

April 23rd, 1724 300 years ago

Johann Sebastian Bach led the first performance of his cantata 'Du Hirte Israel, höre, BWV 104' at St. Thomas Church in Leipzig. This work, commissioned for the Fourth Sunday after Easter, reflects the pastoral theme of the Good Shepherd, conveying hope and solace. It was an important contribution to sacred music during Bach's tenure as Kantor, showcasing his innovative use of chorales and aria forms. The performance drew attention to Bach’s unique ability to intertwine theological themes with rich musical expressions.

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Arts & Culture

Bach Premieres Cantata O Ewigkeit, BWV 20

June 11th, 1724 300 years ago

Johann Sebastian Bach led the performance of his cantata 'O Ewigkeit, du Donnerwort' (O eternity, you word of thunder), BWV 20, on the first Sunday after Trinity. This was a part of his second cycle of chorale cantatas, presenting a profound theological message through music. The cantata incorporates striking choral and orchestral elements, showcasing Bach's genius in theological expression. The service took place in St. Thomas Church, Leipzig, where Bach served as Kantor.

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Born in 1724 (View all 28)

Frances Brooke

English author and playwright of 'The History of Emily Montague'
Born
January 12th, 1724 301 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1789 236 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1724, this English author and playwright contributed significantly to literature of the 18th century. The work includes novels, plays, and essays that reflect contemporary societal norms and challenges. The novel 'The History of Emily Montague' is often cited as one of the first Canadian novels, showcasing early developments in the genre. Often engaging with themes of morality and social commentary, this literary figure also wrote plays that were performed in London, contributing to the cultural landscape of the time.

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Frederick Michael

Count Palatine of Zweibrücken
Born
February 27th, 1724 301 years ago
Died
1767 258 years ago — 43 years old

Born in 1724, held the title of Count Palatine of Zweibrücken. Played a significant role in regional politics during the 18th century. Served as the ruler with a focus on governance and administration, contributing to the stability of the region. Engaged in various diplomatic efforts and alliances that sought to bolster the interests of Zweibrücken in the larger context of European politics. Passed away in 1767.

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Eva Marie Veigel

Dancer and actress in 18th century London
Born
February 29th, 1724 301 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1822 202 years ago — 98 years old

Born in Austria, a dancer became prominent in London during the 18th century. Gained attention for performances at the Drury Lane Theatre alongside her husband, famous actor David Garrick. Contributed to the development of ballet in England and performed in various theatrical productions. Maintained a significant presence in the entertainment scene of the time and influenced the art of dance with her style.

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Manuel do Cenáculo

Portuguese prelate and antiquarian
Born
March 1st, 1724 301 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1814 211 years ago — 89 years old

Served as a prominent prelate in the Catholic Church, contributing to the religious and cultural landscape of Portugal. Engaged deeply in the study and preservation of antiquities, influencing the field of antiquarianism during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. His works provided insight into Portugal's history and heritage, documenting various artifacts and historical narratives.

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Henry Laurens

Merchant and 5th President of Congress
Born
March 6th, 1724 301 years ago
Died
1792 233 years ago — 68 years old

Born in England in 1724, a prominent merchant and politician, served as the 5th President of the Continental Congress from 1777 to 1778. During tenure, focused on supporting the American Revolution and negotiating with foreign powers for assistance. Captured by the British in 1780, imprisoned until 1781. Contributed to the drafting of the Articles of Confederation and was influential in the creation of the U.S. government structure.

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Lyman Hall

American physician and politician
Born
April 12th, 1724 300 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1790 234 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1724, Hall served as a physician and clergyman. He represented Georgia in the Continental Congress and was one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence. He held the position of the 16th Governor of Georgia from 1783 to 1784. Hall played a significant role in the early governance of Georgia following its break from British rule, contributing to the establishment of the state as a key player in the formation of the United States.

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People Who Died in 1724 (View all 15)

Pope Innocent XIII

Pope and religious leader from Catholic Church
Born
1655 370 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1724 301 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the head of the Catholic Church from 1721 until death in 1724. Focused on fostering relations with various European powers and addressed issues in the Church, including reforms. Engaged with matters relating to the Jansenism controversy, upholding traditional Catholic doctrine. Oversaw the completion of several initiatives aimed at improving Church governance and discipline during his papacy.

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Urban Hjärne

Swedish chemist and physician
Born
December 20th, 1641 383 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1724 301 years ago — 82 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of chemistry, geology, and medicine in Sweden during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Served as a professor at Uppsala University, focusing on natural philosophy and chemistry. Conducted research in geology which laid foundational work for the study of minerals and rocks. Published various works that influenced the understanding of chemical processes and properties. Actively participated in the establishment of public health measures, enhancing medical practices of the time.

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John Leverett the Younger

American lawyer and politician
Born
August 25th, 1662 362 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1724 300 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1662, a lawyer and politician contributed to the academic and political landscape of early America. Served as the president of Harvard College from 1708 to 1724, overseeing its growth and development during a formative period. Participated in various civic duties in Massachusetts and engaged in local governance, impacting legislation and community affairs.

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Robert Harley

English lawyer and politician
Born
December 5th, 1661 363 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1724 300 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1661, this figure served as Secretary of State for the Northern Department. As a prominent political leader during Queen Anne's reign, held influential roles in the government, particularly as a key advisor. Played a vital role in managing relations between England and Scotland and was instrumental in the passing of significant legislation. Elevated to the peerage as the 1st Earl of Oxford and Earl Mortimer, represented the Tory party during a time of political upheaval. Contributed to the British political landscape through various legislative efforts and reforms.

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Henry Sacheverell

English minister and politician
Born
1674 351 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1724 300 years ago — 50 years old

Served as an English minister and politician during the early 18th century. Gained prominence with a preaching style that attracted attention, leading to a trial in 1710. The trial for his conduct and political sermons raised significant questions regarding free speech and the relationship between church and state. Was a member of the Tory party and actively participated in the politics of the time, representing the interests of the church establishment. Subsequently, became a place of discussion in political and religious circles.

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Christoph Ludwig Agricola

German painter of genre scenes
Born
November 5th, 1667 357 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1724 300 years ago — 56 years old

A painter active in the late 17th century, primarily worked in the genre style. Focused on depictions of everyday life, often showcasing varying social classes and activities. His works combined elements of realism with baroque influences. Contributed to the development of genre painting in the German artistic landscape.

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