What Happened This Year 1738

Born in 1738

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 287 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 211 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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Jacques Delille

Poet and translator of French literature
Born
June 22nd, 1738 286 years ago

Born in France in 1738, this individual gained recognition as a poet and translator. In 1780, published 'La Conversation,' which showcased a blend of elegance and philosophical reflection. Contributed significantly to the translation of classical works into French, including Virgil's 'Georgics' and the writings of other ancient authors. Made substantial contributions to poetic form and expression in the 18th century, aligning with Enlightenment ideals. Died in 1813.

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John Singleton Copley

American painter of historical subjects
Born
July 3rd, 1738 286 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1815 209 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1738, a prominent American painter, specialized in portraiture and historical themes. Achieved recognition for works that depicted prominent colonial figures and events. Studied and mastered techniques of European masters while developing a distinct American style. Emigrated to England in 1774 to escape the political climate, continuing to create significant works that influenced the art community. Often associated with the Boston art scene and his portraits served to document the early American identity.

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Jacques François Dugommier

French general during Revolutionary War
Born
August 1st, 1738 286 years ago
Died
1794 231 years ago — 56 years old

Served as a general in the French Revolutionary Army, participating in several key battles. Achieved the rank of general and played a significant role in the defense of the French Republic. His military leadership contributed to successes in the War of the First Coalition against various European monarchies. Dugommier was appointed to command forces in the Mediterranean theater, and he led campaigns that showcased strategic military tactics during a tumultuous period in French history. He died in battle in 1794, dedicating his life to the Revolutionary cause.

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