What Happened This Year 1740

People Who Died in 1740

Louis Henri

Duke of Bourbon
Born
August 18th, 1692 332 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1740 285 years ago — 47 years old

Duke of Bourbon served as a French noble and military leader during the 17th century. Held significant influence as the head of the Bourbon family, playing a pivotal role in French politics and military affairs. Participated in various campaigns and contributed to the establishment of Bourbon dominance in France. His notable lineage established the connection between the Bourbon dynasty and the French monarchy.

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Pope Clement XII

Pope and founder of the Vatican Museums
Born
April 7th, 1652 372 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1740 285 years ago — 87 years old

Served as the Pope from 1730 until death in 1740. Played a significant role in Rome's cultural and artistic development. Established the Vatican Museums, significantly enhancing the art collection and accessibility to the public. Oversaw the construction of the Church of St. John the Lateran's new façade, furthering the architectural legacy of the Vatican.

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Pietro Ottoboni

Italian Cardinal and Patron of the Arts
Born
July 2nd, 1667 357 years ago
Died
February 28th, 1740 285 years ago — 72 years old

Played a significant role in the Baroque period as a cardinal within the Catholic Church. Served as a patron of numerous artists and composers, fostering cultural development in art and music. Commissioned notable works, including those by prominent figures such as Antonio Vivaldi and Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Contributed to various artistic endeavors during his time in Rome, influencing the arts and church practices with his support and involvement.

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Lady Catherine Jones

Philanthropist and social reformer
Born
1672 353 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1740 284 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent English philanthropist, contributed significantly to the welfare of the poor during the 18th century. Established charitable foundations and supported various social causes, focusing on the needs of the needy and underprivileged. Engaged in fundraising efforts for orphanages and hospitals. Advocated for education and care of orphans, promoting social responsibility among the wealthy elite. Left a lasting legacy through philanthropic endeavors that influenced subsequent charitable activity in England.

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Thomas Tickell

English poet and author of Elegy.
Born
December 17th, 1685 339 years ago
Died
April 21st, 1740 284 years ago — 54 years old

A prominent English poet and author, this individual was associated with the early 18th century literary scene. His most significant work, 'Elegy on the Death of a Madman', reflects the emotional depth and literary style of his time. He also contributed to the 'Spectator', a daily publication that widely disseminated essays and poetry. Engagement in the literary circles of his era included friendships with notable figures such as Joseph Addison. His literary efforts were marked by a blend of personal reflection and contemporary themes, making contributions that resonated within the realm of English poetry.

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Ephraim Chambers

English publisher and dictionary creator
Born
1680 345 years ago
Died
May 15th, 1740 284 years ago — 60 years old

A prominent English publisher established a significant reference work in the early 18th century. Chambers authored a comprehensive and influential encyclopedic dictionary, 'Cyclopaedia, or an Universal Dictionary of Arts and Sciences,' which was first published in 1728. This work was notable for its extensive range of subjects and contributed to the developing field of encyclopedias. Chambers' publication became a key resource for scholars and the general public, providing information across various disciplines. The dictionary influenced later encyclopedic works and shaped the pursuit of knowledge dissemination in the period.

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Frederick William I of Prussia

King of Prussia; Soldier King
Born
August 14th, 1688 336 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1740 284 years ago — 51 years old

Ruled as King of Prussia from 1713 until 1740. Revolutionized military organization, establishing a strong Prussian army. Implemented fiscal policies that strengthened the state. Focused on maintaining a frugal court and expanded the territories of Prussia through diplomatic means. Fostered a sense of nationalism among the Prussian people.

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Samuel Werenfels

Swiss theologian and author
Born
March 1st, 1657 368 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1740 284 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1657, this theologian served as a professor of theology at the University of Basel. His works addressed various religious and philosophical topics during the Enlightenment period. He authored significant texts that contributed to the discourse of Protestant theology, integrating critical views and rational thought. His writings were influential among contemporaries and in shaping the theological landscape in Switzerland.

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Alexander Spotswood

Colonial politician and Lieutenant Governor
Born
1676 349 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1740 284 years ago — 64 years old

Served as Lieutenant Governor of Virginia from 1710 to 1722. Oversaw major developments, including the establishment of urban settlements and trade routes. Promoted exploration of the western territories, notably dispatching the Governor's expedition to the Appalachian Mountains. Implemented policies that shaped colonial governance.

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