Historical Events from This Year 1768 (View all 9)
Polish Nobles Establish the Bar Confederation
A group of Polish nobles gathered to form the Bar Confederation, aiming to defend their rights against Russian influence. This coalition emerged from dissatisfaction with the political climate and loss of sovereignty in Poland, believed to be driven by external powers. Led by notable figures such as Michał Krasiński and others, the confederation sought to restore the independence of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth through military and diplomatic efforts, setting the stage for significant conflicts ahead.
Continue ReadingRioting Erupts Over John Wilkes' Imprisonment
Rioting erupted in London following the imprisonment of John Wilkes for publishing an unfavorable article in The North Briton that criticized King George III. The response from the public was one of anger and frustration, leading to widespread unrest as demonstrators took to the streets, rallying against perceived governmental oppression. Tensions simmered as citizens gathered in defiance, reflecting growing discontent with the monarchy’s censorship and authority.
Continue ReadingJames Otis Jr. Critiques Monarchy in Speech
James Otis Jr. delivered a speech to the Massachusetts General Court, vocally opposing British taxation and the authority of the King and Parliament. He emphasized the rights of the colonies and proclaimed that taxation without representation was unjust. Otis's passionate address stirred significant debate and gathered support among colonial leaders and the populace, heightening tensions in the relationship between Britain and its American colonies.
Continue ReadingCaptain Cook's Voyage Begins on HMS Endeavour
Captain James Cook set sail from England aboard the HMS Endeavour to explore the South Pacific. Commissioned by the Royal Society, the mission aimed to observe the transit of Venus across the sun, but soon evolved into a broader quest for mapping and exploration. Cook's crew included naturalists and cartographers tasked with documenting their findings. The Endeavour’s journey would lead to significant discoveries that would impact European understanding of the Pacific region.
Continue ReadingConquest Leading to Nepal's Unification
The unification of Nepal was a significant military campaign led by King Prithvi Narayan Shah. His ambition was to bring together the fragmented states of the Kathmandu Valley and surrounding regions into a single kingdom. By leveraging strategic alliances and military strength, King Prithvi launched his campaign in the mid-18th century and successfully captured key territories, most notably Kathmandu. This marked the beginning of modern Nepal as a unified nation under Shah's rule.
Continue ReadingTreaty of Fort Stanwix Establishes Indian Boundaries
The Treaty of Fort Stanwix was signed between British officials and various Native American tribes to establish boundary lines between their lands and white settlements. Held at Fort Stanwix in New York, the treaty aimed to regulate colonial expansion westward, addressing conflicts arising from the Royal Proclamation of 1763. Delegates from the Iroquois Confederacy and other tribes negotiated terms with British representatives, ultimately influencing future land agreements and settler relations. The treaty marked an important step in colonial policy regarding Indigenous lands.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1768 (View all 28)
Maria Edgeworth
Born in 1768, this author contributed significantly to the development of the novel as a literary form in the early 19th century. Writing primarily in English, she often explored themes of social and moral education in her works. The publication of 'Castle Rackrent' in 1800 marked a turning point in Irish literature by using theIrish setting and characters to frame the narrative. The author frequently collaborated with other writers, and her works showcase a range of genres, from history to children's literature. Throughout her career, she maintained a correspondence with notable literary figures, further influencing her peers.
Continue ReadingJoseph Bonaparte
An Italian nobleman, served as King of Naples from 1806 to 1808 and King of Spain from 1808 to 1813 during the Napoleonic Wars. Appointed by his brother Napoleon Bonaparte, implemented several administrative reforms in Spain. After the fall of his reign, lived in exile in various countries including the United States, where he resided for many years.
Continue ReadingFrancis II
Born in 1768, the last Holy Roman Emperor reigned from 1792 until 1806. The dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire occurred after the Austro-Prussian War, leading to the establishment of the Austrian Empire. Emphasized the importance of maintaining the empire's influence in European politics during the Napoleonic Wars, facing significant challenges from Napoleon Bonaparte. Advocated for diplomatic solutions and alliances to preserve imperial power, ultimately abdicated in 1806 as Napoleon’s forces advanced. Transitioned to the role of Emperor of Austria thereafter, continuing to rule until 1835.
Continue ReadingÉdouard Adolphe Casimir Joseph Mortier
Served as a French general and politician during the Napoleonic era. Held the position of the 15th Prime Minister of France for a brief period. Mortier played significant roles in various military campaigns, including the Peninsular War and the invasion of Russia. He was decorated as a Marshal of France and held command over the Guard during several military engagements. Mortier's political career included serving as a member of the French Senate and taking on important administrative roles in the government.
Continue ReadingJoseph Fourier
A prominent mathematician and physicist, contributed significantly to the study of heat transfer and vibrations. Developed Fourier series, which express functions as sums of sines and cosines, enabling solutions in various fields including engineering, physics, and signal processing. Authored 'The Analytical Theory of Heat,' establishing the basis for heat conduction analysis. Served as a member of the French Academy of Sciences and was involved in the political sphere during the French Revolution, including governance in Egypt under Napoleon.
Continue ReadingCharles Tennant
A Scottish chemist and businessman developed a method for producing bleaching powder, revolutionizing the textile industry. Established a successful chemical works in 1796 and contributed to the development of the industrial dyeing and bleaching industry. Became a prominent figure in the chemical industry and played a significant role in the growth of chemical manufacturing in Scotland during the 19th century.
Continue ReadingPeople Who Died in 1768 (View all 21)
Sir Robert Rich
Served as a field marshal and held significant political positions during the 18th century. Acted as a member of the British House of Commons, representing the interests of his constituents. Developed a reputation for military leadership and involvement in governance, contributing to the administration of the country during his tenure.
Continue ReadingRobert Smith
A prominent English mathematician and theorist, contributed significantly to the field of mathematics during the 18th century. Smith developed theories that laid foundations for algebraic topology and number theory. His work included studies on the nature of equations and their relationships. Upon his death in 1768, his influence continued to resonate in subsequent mathematical research and development.
Continue ReadingArthur Onslow
Served as Speaker of the House of Commons from 1728 to 1761. Played a significant role in parliamentary procedures and governance during his tenure. Contributed to the development of the Speaker's role as a position of authority in the House of Commons. Advocated for orderly debate and the maintenance of parliamentary privileges.
Continue ReadingHermann Samuel Reimarus
A German philosopher and author contributed significantly to the Enlightenment era. Best recognized for the critique of religious beliefs and the historical analysis of Jesus' life through works such as 'Apologie oder Schutzschrift für die vernünftigen Verehrer Gottes.' Reimarus aimed to reconcile faith and reason, questioning traditional theological dogmas. His posthumously published writings laid foundational ideas for biblical criticism and the historical-critical method, influencing later thinkers. He engaged in philosophical debates of his time, focusing on ethics and epistemology.
Continue ReadingNicola Porpora
A prominent figure in 18th-century music, Porpora achieved significant recognition as a composer and vocal teacher. His work includes numerous operas, sacred music, and cantatas, which were influential in the development of Italian opera. Porpora was a key figure in the Neapolitan opera scene and contributed to the education of several renowned singers of the time, including Farinelli. His compositions were noted for their melodic beauty and complex vocal lines, showcasing the capabilities of the singers he trained.
Continue ReadingLaurence Sterne
A significant figure in English literature, contributed to the development of the novel as a form. Wrote 'The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman', which introduced unconventional narrative techniques including digressions and nonlinear storytelling. Served as a clergyman, influencing both his literary and personal pursuits. Sterne's work explored themes of time, identity, and the nature of narrative, shaping the landscape of modern fiction.
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