What Happened This Year 1742

People Who Died in 1742

Edmond Halley

English astronomer, Halley's Comet.
Born
November 8th, 1656 368 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1742 283 years ago — 85 years old

An English astronomer contributed significantly to the field of astronomy and is most recognized for calculating the orbit of Halley's Comet, establishing its periodic appearance. Also served as the second Astronomer Royal and made notable contributions to meteorology and the study of the Earth's magnetic field. Conducted comprehensive research on stellar positions and published a landmark work titled 'Catalogus Stellarum.' Participated in the Royal Society as a prominent member.

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Jean-Baptiste Dubos

French historian and author of works.
Born
1670 355 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1742 282 years ago — 72 years old

Contributed to the field of history through writings that emphasized the connection between history and the arts. Authored several significant texts, including "L'Histoire de la musique" where the intersections of history, culture, and music were explored. Also known for critiques of contemporary history interpretations, which helped shape future historical analysis. Active during the 18th century, he engaged with various philosophical movements of the time, reflecting the Enlightenment ideals in his work.

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Stefano Benedetto Pallavicino

Italian poet and translator of classics
Born
March 21st, 1672 352 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1742 282 years ago — 70 years old

An influential poet and translator, contributed significantly to Italian literature in the late 17th century. Introduced the works of classical authors to a broader audience through modern Italian translations. Contributed to the revival of sonnet writing in Italy. Established a reputation for linguistic skill and poetic form, reflecting both classical influences and the contemporary literary scene.

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Arvid Horn

Swedish general and politician
Born
April 6th, 1664 360 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1742 282 years ago — 78 years old

A prominent military leader and politician, served as Governor of Västerbotten County. Played significant roles in both the Great Northern War and in the political landscape of Sweden during the early 18th century. Contributed to military reforms and governance in a time marked by conflict and territorial change.

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Lars Roberg

Swedish physician and academic figure
Born
January 4th, 1654 371 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1742 282 years ago — 88 years old

A physician and academic contributed significantly to the field of medicine in Sweden during the 17th century. His work encompassed various aspects of medical practice and education. Advocated for advancements in the study and application of medicine. Engaged in academic discussions and writings that influenced future medical thought.

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Pylyp Orlyk

Ukrainian-Romanian diplomat and statesman
Born
October 11th, 1672 352 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1742 282 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1672, a Ukrainian-Romanian diplomat played a significant role in the political landscape of Eastern Europe during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. He served as a Hetman of the Zaporozhian Cossacks. His tenure was marked by diplomatic efforts to secure autonomy for the Cossacks and establish alliances against common foes. The Constitution of 1710, which he drafted, is considered one of the first democratic constitutions in the modern world, outlining a governance structure and rights for the Cossack state. This document has been recognized for its forward-thinking principles and vision for governance. His legacy includes contributions to the development of Ukrainian statehood.

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John Aislabie

English politician and Chancellor of the Exchequer
Born
December 4th, 1670 354 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1742 282 years ago — 71 years old

Served as an English politician and held the position of Chancellor of the Exchequer. Played a significant role in the management of public finances during the early 18th century. Faced political challenges and was implicated in the South Sea Bubble scandal, leading to his dismissal from office. Actively participated in local governance and was involved in various public works initiatives.

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Luigi Guido Grandi

Italian monk and mathematician
Born
October 1st, 1671 353 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1742 282 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1671, this Italian monk contributed significantly to mathematics and engineering. As a member of the Olivetan Order, he combined his religious life with scholarly pursuits. Grandi's work primarily focused on mathematics, where he developed the Grandi's series and contributed to the field of calculus. His engineering skills were also notable, particularly in the development of hydraulic systems. Grandi's writings and teachings had a lasting influence on subsequent generations of mathematicians and engineers.

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Evaristo Felice Dall'Abaco

Italian violinist and composer of concertos
Born
July 12th, 1675 349 years ago
Died
July 12th, 1742 282 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1675, this Italian violinist and composer contributed significantly to the development of the violin concerto. Active during the late Baroque period, he wrote numerous compositions that showcased the capabilities of the violin. His works reflect a blend of Italian and German influences, highlighting virtuosic violin techniques. This musician held various positions, including working in various courts across Europe. Dall'Abaco also published several important treatises on music and composition, helping to educate future generations of musicians.

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