What Happened This Year 1738

Historical Events from This Year 1738 (View all 8)

Politics & Government

Peshwa Bajirao and Jai Singh II Sign Peace Treaty

January 7th, 1738 287 years ago

Following the Maratha victory at the Battle of Bhopal, a peace treaty was signed between Peshwa Bajirao I and Jai Singh II of the Rajputana, effectively ending hostilities between the Maratha Empire and the Rajput states. The treaty aimed to solidify the Maratha's influence in northern India while acknowledging Jai Singh's role and territory. The negotiations highlighted the strategic importance of alliances in regional politics.

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Arts & Culture

Premiere of Handel's 'Serse' in London

April 15th, 1738 286 years ago

George Frideric Handel's Italian opera 'Serse' premiered in London, showcasing the composer’s exceptional talent and innovative use of music and drama. The opera is noted for its beautiful arias and the famous aria 'Ombra mai fu', which pays homage to the shade of a tree. Premiered at the King's Theatre, it depicted themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal, as well as featuring a cast of notable singers of the time. The production's initial reception was lukewarm, but it gradually gained popularity, marking a significant addition to the operatic repertoire.

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Education & Academia

Foundation of the Royal Academy of History

April 18th, 1738 286 years ago

The Real Academia de la Historia was established in Madrid to promote historical research and the study of Spain's history. Founded by prominent intellectuals, it aimed to compile and organize Spain's historical documents and foster scholarly work. The academy quickly became a vital institution for historians and researchers, contributing to a deeper understanding of Spain's past and its cultural heritage.

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Arts & Culture

Founding of Russia's First Ballet School

May 4th, 1738 286 years ago

The Imperial Theatrical School was established in Russia, becoming the country's first ballet school. Founded by Empress Anna Ioannovna, this institution aimed to elevate ballet as a significant art form and nurture talents in performance. Located in Saint Petersburg, the school trained dancers in European ballet techniques, fostering a new generation of artists. This initiative marked a turning point in the cultural development of Russia.

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Religion & Philosophy

John Wesley's Conversion Sparks Methodist Movement

May 24th, 1738 286 years ago

In 1738, John Wesley experienced a profound spiritual transformation at a meeting on Aldersgate Street in London, which fundamentally influenced his life and laid the groundwork for the Methodist movement. This event is commemorated annually as Aldersgate Day by Methodists, who reflect on Wesley's encounter with faith. The moment of conversion occurred while Wesley listened to Martin Luther's preface to the Epistle to the Romans, which spoke of faith, grace, and salvation through Jesus Christ. This was a pivotal moment that would propel him into a lifelong mission of evangelism and reform within the Church of England.

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Politics & Government

Treaty Resolves Boundary Dispute and Prisoner Exchange

May 25th, 1738 286 years ago

A treaty was negotiated between Pennsylvania and Maryland to resolve the Conojocular War, which included the settlement of a long-standing boundary dispute and the exchange of prisoners. The agreement aimed to foster peaceful relations and clear the border ambiguities that had caused tensions between the two colonies. The resolution was characterized by mutual concessions, highlighting the importance of diplomacy in colonial governance.

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Born in 1738 (View all 21)

Ethan Allen

American Revolutionary War general
Born
January 21st, 1738 287 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1789 236 years ago — 51 years old

Served as a general during the American Revolutionary War and led the Green Mountain Boys. Played a crucial role in the capture of Fort Ticonderoga in 1775, seizing much-needed artillery for the Continental Army. Advocated for the rights of Vermont and contributed to its early independence efforts. Later engaged in military tactics and leadership in the Champlain Valley during the conflict.

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Benjamin Tupper

American general during Revolutionary War
Born
March 11th, 1738 287 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1792 232 years ago — 54 years old

Served as a general in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. Tupper played a significant role in various military campaigns, particularly in the Siege of Boston and the Saratoga Campaign. After the war, he was active in the administration of military affairs and contributed to the establishment of veterans' support systems. Tupper also participated in local governance and land surveying in Massachusetts, engaging in community and political efforts to aid veterans and promote local development.

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William Cavendish-Bentinck

British Prime Minister and politician
Born
April 14th, 1738 286 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1809 215 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom twice, from 1783 to 1783 and from 1807 to 1809. Played a crucial role in the political landscape during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, particularly in regard to issues such as the American Revolutionary War and the Napoleonic Wars. Owned vast estates and was involved in local governance, impacting agricultural reforms. Participated in the formation of key political alliances and was instrumental in managing parliamentary affairs during his tenure.

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Nathaniel Gorham

American merchant and politician
Born
May 27th, 1738 286 years ago
Died
1796 229 years ago — 58 years old

Born in 1738, a merchant and politician held significant positions during the early years of American governance. Served as the 14th President of the Continental Congress from 1786 to 1787. Played a pivotal role in the drafting of the United States Constitution, representing Massachusetts at the Constitutional Convention in 1787, and contributed to the development of a federal government structure. Actively involved in the political landscape during the formative years of the United States, influencing key decisions regarding state representation and government powers.

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Joseph-Ignace Guillotin

French physician and politician
Born
May 28th, 1738 286 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1814 210 years ago — 75 years old

A physician and politician from France, contributed to the development of the guillotine, a device for carrying out executions. Advocated for humane methods of execution during the French Revolution. Served as a member of the National Assembly and sought reforms related to the treatment of prisoners and legal proceedings. Played a significant role in the political landscape of revolutionary France.

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George III of the United Kingdom

British monarch during the American Revolution
Born
June 4th, 1738 286 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1820 205 years ago — 81 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1760, ruled over Great Britain and Ireland during significant historical events, including the American Revolutionary War. His reign was marked by economic struggles, wars, and political turmoil. Faced increasing opposition and unrest, particularly from the American colonies, which ultimately led to their independence. Suffered from bouts of mental illness, which affected his rule in later years. His legacy includes the expansion of the British Empire and governance reforms in Ireland.

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People Who Died in 1738 (View all 10)

Jean-François Dandrieu

French organist and composer of Baroque music
Born
1682 343 years ago
Died
January 17th, 1738 287 years ago — 56 years old

An accomplished organist and composer during the French Baroque period, this figure contributed significantly to the repertoire for the organ. Work included a range of compositions for organ and harpsichord, reflecting the stylistic traits of the time. His output includes several collections of organ pieces that showcased the instrument's capabilities. Predominantly active in Paris, influenced the development of French organ music through innovative compositions and improvisations. His music is recognized for its intricate melodic lines and harmonic explorations.

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Matthias Braun

Czech sculptor with Baroque works
Born
1684 341 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1738 287 years ago — 54 years old

Active during the Baroque period, contributed significantly to the art of sculpture in the Czech region. Created many religious and secular works that adorned cathedrals and public spaces. Developed a distinctive style characterized by dynamic forms and intricate details. His works reflect the artistic trends of the time and demonstrate exceptional skill in stone and wood carving.

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George Bähr

Architect, designer of Dresden Frauenkirche
Born
March 15th, 1666 359 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1738 286 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent architect focused on sacred buildings in Germany, contributed significantly to Baroque architecture. Designed the Dresden Frauenkirche, a remarkable example of Protestant church architecture. The church, completed in 1743 after his death, features a stunning dome and intricate details, exemplifying the height of architectural achievement in the period. Bähr's work has influenced the design of numerous other churches and structures in Europe.

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Turlough O'Carolan

Irish harpist and composer of melodies
Born
1670 355 years ago
Died
March 25th, 1738 286 years ago — 68 years old

An influential Irish harp player and composer emerged in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. O'Carolan studied music with the harper, O'Neill, and developed a distinctive style that blended traditional Irish music with baroque influences. After becoming blind at a young age, O'Carolan dedicated life to music, traveling across Ireland and performing for the gentry. His compositions, rich in melody and harmony, reflected the cultural heritage of Ireland and showcased the potential of the harp. His most celebrated works include 'Si Bheag, Si Mhor' and 'Carolan's Concerto', which continue to be performed today.

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Isaac de Beausobre

French pastor and theologian
Born
1659 366 years ago
Died
June 5th, 1738 286 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of theology and philosophy. Served as a pastor in various locations and engaged in extensive theological writings. Translated many works, contributing to the understanding of doctrines and biblical texts. His analysis often focused on the nature of free will and grace within Christian theology.

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Charles Townshend

English politician and Chancellor of the Exchequer
Born
August 29th, 1725 299 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1738 286 years ago — 12 years old

A prominent English politician during the 18th century, held the position of Chancellor of the Exchequer. Played a critical role in implementing the Townshend Acts, a series of measures introduced in 1767 that taxed goods imported to the American colonies. Advocated for greater control over colonial trade and governance, which intensified tensions leading up to the American Revolution. Served as a member of Parliament, influencing financial and political strategies of the time.

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