What Happened This Year 1734

Historical Events from This Year 1734

Crime & Law

Execution of Slave Marie-Joseph Angélique

June 21st, 1734 290 years ago

Marie-Joseph Angélique, an enslaved woman in Montreal, was executed for allegedly setting a significant fire that ravaged parts of the city. Her trial was marked by severe societal biases against slaves and women, and she faced immense scrutiny during legal proceedings. This event led to her branding as a scapegoat for the disaster, reflecting the fraught dynamics of race and class in colonial society.

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Born in 1734 (View all 13)

François-Joseph Gossec

French composer and conductor
Born
January 17th, 1734 291 years ago
Died
1829 196 years ago — 95 years old

A significant figure in the development of French symphonic music during the 18th century. Contributed to the evolution of the symphony and chamber music, with a style that bridged the gap between Baroque and Classical traditions. Served as a conductor and composed various works, including symphonies, operas, and choral music. Played a key role in establishing a French national style in classical music and influenced many contemporaries.

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Caspar Friedrich Wolff

German physiologist and embryologist
Born
January 18th, 1734 291 years ago
Died
1794 231 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent figure in the field of physiology and embryology, contributions included the theory of epigenesis, which challenged preexisting notions of preformation in embryonic development. Wolff published significant works, including 'Theoria Generationis', where he detailed observations of embryonic development in animals, providing foundational insights into the understanding of stages in human development. His investigations into the development of offspring established essential principles that influenced subsequent biological studies.

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Thomas McKean

American lawyer and 2nd Governor of Pennsylvania
Born
March 19th, 1734 290 years ago
Died
June 24th, 1817 207 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1734, this individual served as the second Governor of Pennsylvania. A prominent lawyer before entering politics, significant contributions were made during the American Revolution as a signatory of the Declaration of Independence. Played a crucial role in the governance of Pennsylvania during its formative years, implementing various legislative reforms. Later served as Chief Justice of Pennsylvania, influencing the legal landscape of the state. Also took part in the Constitutional Convention as a delegate, contributing to the foundation of the nation.

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Taksin

King of Thailand
Born
April 17th, 1734 290 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1782 242 years ago — 47 years old

Ruled as the King of Thailand after the fall of the Ayutthaya Kingdom. Established the Thonburi Kingdom in 1767, consolidating power after the Burmese invasion. Expanded the territory and revived trade and agriculture in the region. Promoted Buddhism and embraced cultural integration among various ethnic groups, leading to a period of relative stability and prosperity.

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Franz Mesmer

Physician and astrologist, developed mesmerism
Born
May 23rd, 1734 290 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1815 210 years ago — 80 years old

A German physician and astrologist, contributed significantly to medical practices in the 18th century. Developed the theory of 'animal magnetism,' which led to the practice of mesmerism, a method intended to cure ailments by using magnetic forces. This theory gained considerable attention and spurred debates in medical and scientific communities. Opened a clinic in Vienna where treatment sessions were conducted. Later moved to Paris, where the practice attracted both attention and criticism, ultimately influencing the development of hypnosis. Placed greater emphasis on the connection between mind and body in healing.

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Jean-Jacques Beauvarlet-Charpentier

French organist and composer
Born
June 28th, 1734 290 years ago
Died
1794 231 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent figure in the 18th century, this individual contributed significantly to the art of organ music. His work included compositions that showcased the organ's capabilities and enriched the repertoire of French liturgical music. Active in Paris, he was instrumental in developing the French style of organ music during his time. As an esteemed performer, he held prestigious posts as an organist, playing in notable churches and influencing a generation of musicians. His compositions remain a part of the organ literature.

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People Who Died in 1734 (View all 15)

John Dennis

English playwright and critic
Born
1657 368 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1734 291 years ago — 77 years old

A playwright and critic contributed significantly to early 18th-century English literature. Worked in London, producing a range of plays, and gained notable attention for dramatic works such as 'Appius and Virginia' and 'The Invincibles'. Also engaged in literary criticism, influencing the theatrical landscape of the time through reviews and essays. Dennis's critical writings included discussions on the nature of drama, emphasizing the importance of emotional engagement in theater. His thoughts and writings left an enduring mark on the development of English drama.

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John Floyer

English physician and author of medical texts
Born
1649 376 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1734 291 years ago — 85 years old

A physician, a significant figure in 18th century medicine, contributed to the understanding of diseases and the practice of medicine through various publications. His work emphasized the importance of pulse measurement and introduced new methods for clinical assessment. Authored several texts that explored medical practices, with a particular focus on respiratory diseases and the effects of air quality. His observations laid a foundation for future explorations in medicine and health.

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Roger North

English lawyer and author of legal texts
Born
1653 372 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1734 291 years ago — 81 years old

An English lawyer and author, this individual contributed to legal literature during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Works included treatises on law and important commentaries on legal principles. The writings often reflected the legal practices and thoughts of the time. Speeches in Parliament in relation to the law also highlighted his engagement with contemporary legal issues. The influence of these texts persisted in legal scholarship.

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Robert Wodrow

Scottish historian and author of history
Born
1679 346 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1734 290 years ago — 55 years old

An influential figure in 18th-century Scottish historiography. Focused on the history of the Scottish Covenanters and the religious conflicts of the time. Authored the significant work 'The History of the Sufferings of the Church of Scotland', detailing the struggles faced by Presbyterians during the 17th century. His writings contributed to the understanding of Scottish religious history and provided a narrative of persecution and resilience. Additionally, he served as a minister in the Church of Scotland, which further enriched his historical perspectives.

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James Thornhill

Painter and politician, painted the dome of St. Paul's Cathedral
Born
1675 350 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1734 290 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent English painter and politician, contributed significantly to the decoration of St. Paul's Cathedral, creating a stunning painted dome that remains iconic. Active during the early 18th century, served as a Member of Parliament while engaging in painting commissions. Thornhill's work exemplifies the Baroque style in England and reflects the artistic trends of the period. His contributions include large-scale public works that highlight religious themes, aiming to inspire and educate the public through art.

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Georg Ernst Stahl

German chemist and physician, founder of phlogiston theory
Born
October 22nd, 1659 365 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1734 290 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent figure in early chemistry and medicine, contributions included the formulation of the phlogiston theory, which proposed that a fire-like element called phlogiston was contained within combustible bodies and released during combustion. This theory dominated chemical understanding until the late 18th century when it was replaced by the theory of oxidation. Stahl's work also encompassed the development of theories related to digestion and the role of vital forces in medicine. Additionally, served in academic positions, influencing the education of future chemists and physicians through lectures and publications.

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