What Happened This Year 1726

Born in 1726

Christian Felix Weiße

German poet and playwright
Born
January 28th, 1726 299 years ago
Died
1802 223 years ago — 76 years old

Born in 1726, a German poet and playwright contributed significantly to German literature through various works. The individual wrote fables, poems, and plays, engaging audiences with thematic elements drawn from folklore and moral lessons. Weiße's influence extended to children's literature as well, creating stories that resonated with younger audiences. The body of work remains noteworthy, encapsulating the style and cultural context of the era.

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Patrick Russell

Scottish surgeon and zoologist
Born
February 6th, 1726 299 years ago
Died
1805 220 years ago — 79 years old

A prominent surgeon and zoologist from Scotland, he contributed significantly to the field of natural history. He studied medicine and surgery, ultimately achieving a successful career in zoology. His work included extensive observations of the flora and fauna of India, where he served as a surgeon for the East India Company. Russell meticulously documented numerous species, many of which were new to science, and he published influential works based on his research, enhancing the understanding of various animal species. His two-volume book, 'The Natural History of Aleppo,' offered valuable insights into the region's wildlife and climate. Russell's contributions were pivotal in advancing the study of zoology in the 18th century.

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Margaret Fownes-Luttrell

English painter and watercolorist
Born
February 7th, 1726 299 years ago
Died
August 13th, 1766 258 years ago — 40 years old

Born in 1726, this individual gained recognition as a significant English painter. Active during the 18th century, worked primarily in watercolor and oil painting, creating innovative landscape and floral designs. Regarded for contributions to the artistic scene of her time, particularly through landscapes that depicted the English countryside. Engaged in the artistic community, exhibited works that reflected contemporary styles and themes. Left behind a legacy that influenced future generations of artists, contributing to the growth of watercolor as a respected medium.

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William Prescott

American colonel during the Revolution
Born
February 20th, 1726 299 years ago
Died
1795 230 years ago — 69 years old

Served as a colonel in the Massachusetts militia during the American Revolutionary War. Commanded colonial forces at the Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775, where strategic fortifications were established. His leadership contributed to the early colonial resistance against British forces. Prescott's military career was marked by his commitment to the revolutionary cause, earning him respect among his peers and the colonial populace.

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Richard Howe

English admiral and politician
Born
March 8th, 1726 299 years ago
Died
August 5th, 1799 225 years ago — 73 years old

Served as an admiral in the Royal Navy and became the 1st Earl Howe. Participated in significant naval battles during the American Revolutionary War. Instrumental in the British naval victory at the Battle of the Glorious First of June in 1794, leading a fleet against the French. Held various important political positions, contributing to maritime strategy and domestic policy.

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Benjamin Harrison V

American politician and plantation owner
Born
April 5th, 1726 298 years ago
Died
1791 234 years ago — 65 years old

This individual served as a prominent politician during the American Revolution. Elected to the Continental Congress, he signed the Declaration of Independence. Additionally, he was Governor of Virginia, contributing to the political landscape of the time and advocating for the principles of the fledgling nation. His background as a planter and merchant shaped his economic perspectives and political ideologies.

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Gerard Majella

Italian saint and cleric
Born
April 6th, 1726 298 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1755 269 years ago — 29 years old

Born in Italy in 1726, this individual served as a Redemptorist lay brother. Recognized for piety and miracles attributed to his intercession, he devoted life to the spiritual care of the poor and marginalized. His dedication to the community earned him a reputation as a devoted servant of God. After death in 1755, his legacy continued through numerous accounts of miraculous healings, leading to canonization by the Catholic Church in 1904. His feast day is celebrated on October 16.

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Lewis Morris

American judge and politician
Born
April 8th, 1726 298 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1798 227 years ago — 71 years old

Served as a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Held the position of Chief Justice of the New Jersey Supreme Court. Contributed to the establishment of several policies during the formative years of the United States.

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Francis Cotes

English painter and academic, portraitist
Born
May 20th, 1726 298 years ago
Died
July 16th, 1770 254 years ago — 44 years old

A significant English painter and academic, contributed to the development of portrait painting in Britain during the 18th century. Cotes was educated at St. Martin's Lane Academy and became a prominent figure in the Royal Academy. Various works showcased a delicate style combined with detailed representations. His portraits often included notable figures from society and the arts, demonstrating a keen understanding of character and emotion.

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