What Happened This Year 1739

People Who Died in 1739

Dick Turpin

English criminal and highwayman
Born
1705 320 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1739 285 years ago — 34 years old

Active in the early 18th century, a notorious English highwayman gained infamy for robbery and violent crimes. Originally a butcher, transitioned to highway robbery, operating mainly in the countryside of England. Earned notoriety for a dramatic horseback ride from London to York, a distance of over 200 miles, accomplished in a single night. Captured and tried for murder and robbery, faced execution in 1739.

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Nicholas Saunderson

English mathematician and academic
Born
1682 343 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1739 285 years ago — 57 years old

Contributions to mathematics included work in algebra and geometry. Held the position of Lucasian Professor of Mathematics at the University of Cambridge. Worked extensively on mathematical analysis and was instrumental in bringing calculus into public understanding. Published a significant work titled 'Elements of Algebra,' influencing future generations of mathematicians.

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Benedetto Marcello

Italian composer and educator
Born
1686 339 years ago
Died
July 24th, 1739 285 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent Italian composer and educator, contributed significantly to the development of Baroque music. Composed numerous works, including the oratorio 'Estro Poetico Armonico', which set a foundation for future compositions in the genre. Also known for his writing on music theory and education, particularly through 'Il teatro alla moda', which provided a satirical view of opera. Engaged in various musical projects and held a position in the Venetian nobility, emphasizing the importance of music in society.

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António José da Silva

Playwright and author of 'Os Mistérios de El-Rei'
Born
1705 320 years ago
Died
October 18th, 1739 285 years ago — 34 years old

A significant figure in the Brazilian-Portuguese theater scene, this playwright contributed notably to the baroque theatrical tradition. Many works combined elements of comedy and melodrama, reflecting societal issues of the time. 'Os Mistérios de El-Rei' became one of the most celebrated plays, showcasing a blend of humor and drama. This playwright's works were performed in popular theaters, contributing to the cultural landscape and influencing later generations. The playwright faced challenges from the Inquisition due to the themes and content of the works, ultimately leading to a life marked by both creativity and conflict in artistic expression.

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Reinhard Keiser

German composer of operatic works
Born
January 9th, 1674 351 years ago
Died
1739 286 years ago — 65 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of German opera during the early 18th century. Active in Hamburg, composed numerous operas that were well received during his lifetime. His work incorporated elements of French opera, and he was prominent in the opera scene before the rise of later composers. Collaborated with various librettists and established a reputation through productions performed at the Hamburg State Opera.

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Françoise Charlotte d'Aubigné

French noblewoman and courtier
Born
May 5th, 1684 340 years ago
Died
1739 286 years ago — 55 years old

Born into a prominent family, spent significant time at the French court. Married Adrien Maurice de Noailles, a distinguished military officer. Held a position in the court of Louis XIV, where she navigated the complexities of royal favor. Engaged in the cultural and political life of the period, associated with the influential aristocratic circles of France. Known for her correspondence with notable intellectuals and social figures of the time.

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