What Happened This Year 1724

People Who Died in 1724

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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François-Timoléon de Choisy

French historian and author of works on Louis XIV
Born
1644 381 years ago
Died
October 2nd, 1724 300 years ago — 80 years old

A French historian and author contributed significantly to the historical literature of the 17th century. Focused on the reign of Louis XIV, works detailed the political and cultural life of France during this period. Authored several texts that provided insights into the court and society of the time. Choisy's writings remain valuable for understanding the historical context of the era, particularly through first-hand accounts and observations of the royal court.

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Joseph Blake

English criminal involved in piracy
Born
1700 325 years ago
Died
November 11th, 1724 300 years ago — 24 years old

Active during the early 18th century, participated in piracy, primarily along the coast of North America. Engaged in criminal activities that targeted merchant ships. Captured and ultimately executed for crimes committed at sea. His actions contributed to the notoriety of piracy during a time known as the Golden Age of Piracy.

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Jack Sheppard

English criminal and escape artist
Born
March 4th, 1702 323 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1724 300 years ago — 22 years old

Born in 1702, worked as a carpenter before becoming involved in crime. Gained notoriety as a thief and burglar in London, frequently escaping from custody through daring and elaborate methods. Captured multiple times, earned a reputation for his ability to elude authorities, sparking public fascination. His exploits led to various depictions in literature and popular culture, solidifying his status as an infamous criminal in English history. Executed in 1724, the life story inspired numerous stories, plays, and films depicting his adventures and escapades.

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