What Happened This Year 1772

People Who Died in 1772

Louis-Claude Daquin

French organist and composer
Born
July 4th, 1694 330 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1772 252 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1694, a prominent organist and composer in France during the Baroque period, contributed significantly to the development of French keyboard music. Served as the organist at the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris and later at the royal court. Created numerous works including organ pieces and motets, showcasing a unique style that blended traditional French elements with Italian influences. Daquin's compositions remain vital for understanding the evolution of organ music in the 18th century.

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Gerard van Swieten

Dutch-Austrian physician and medical reformer
Born
May 7th, 1700 324 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1772 252 years ago — 72 years old

Born in the Netherlands, a physician contributed significantly to the advancement of medicine in Austria during the 18th century. Served as the personal physician to Empress Maria Theresa, implementing reforms in the medical field. Established the first medical school in Vienna, which played a crucial role in educating future generations of physicians. Introduced modern medical practices and emphasized empirical observation and treatment methods.

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Johann Ulrich von Cramer

German philosopher and judge
Born
November 8th, 1706 318 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1772 252 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent figure in 18th century German philosophy and jurisprudence, expertise lay in the field of law. Held a position as a judge, contributing to the development of legal thought during this period. Authored notable works that addressed significant philosophical issues and legal principles, influencing both contemporary and future discussions on philosophy and law.

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William Borlase

English geologist and archaeologist
Born
February 2nd, 1695 330 years ago
Died
August 31st, 1772 252 years ago — 77 years old

Contributed to the field of geology and archaeology in England during the 18th century. Published works included descriptions of Cornwall's geology and antiquities. His book, 'The Natural History of Cornwall', detailed the region's geology, minerals, and archaeological sites. Conducted numerous investigations into local sites, providing a substantial foundation for future archaeological studies.

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John Woolman

Quaker preacher and abolitionist
Born
October 19th, 1720 304 years ago
Died
October 7th, 1772 252 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1720, this individual dedicated life to advocating for social justice and the abolition of slavery. A prominent Quaker, this person emphasized the importance of equality and humane treatment of all individuals. Published works included essays and journals that outlined the moral arguments against slavery, influencing the abolitionist movement. Engaged in extensive travels to spread messages of peace and humanitarianism, visiting multiple regions in America to raise awareness about social issues faced by marginalized communities. Active in promoting the Quaker testimony against slavery, this individual's efforts contributed to the evolution of abolitionist thought during the 18th century.

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Jean-Joseph de Mondonville

French violinist and composer of operas
Born
December 25th, 1711 313 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1772 252 years ago — 60 years old

Violinist and composer contributed extensively to the operatic and instrumental music of 18th century France. Prominent in the development of the French opera style, composed several notable works, including 'Les fêtes de Phaëthon' and 'Psyche'. Served as a violinist in the orchestra of the Paris Opera, which was crucial to his reputation. His compositions reflected the elegance and complexity of the French baroque musical style, often characterized by rich harmonies and ornate melodies. Through these works, played an important role in the evolution of French music during this period.

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William Nelson

Colonial Governor of Virginia
Born
1711 314 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1772 252 years ago — 61 years old

Served as the Colonial Governor of Virginia from 1737 to 1740. Played a key role in the administration during a period of significant growth and expansion in the colony. Managed various affairs, including trade, land disputes, and relations with Indigenous tribes. Implemented policies that affected governance and colonial legislation. Contributed to local political infrastructure and addressed issues of colonial defense. His tenure influenced later developments within the colony and set precedents for governance.

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Martín Sarmiento

Spanish monk and scholar
Born
1695 330 years ago
Died
December 7th, 1772 252 years ago — 77 years old

A Spanish monk and scholar, contributed extensively to the fields of history, philology, and botany. Engaged in the study of Galician culture and literature. Authored several works, including treatises on natural history and historical accounts of Spain. Worked to promote the study of the Galician language and culture. His efforts in documentation and research laid the foundation for future scholarship in these areas.

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Johann Georg Reutter

Austrian organist and composer of masses
Born
April 6th, 1708 316 years ago
Died
1772 253 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1708, held the position of court composer in Vienna. Composed numerous vocal and instrumental works, especially masses for the Imperial court. Influenced the development of church music in Austria during the Baroque period. Worked closely with prominent musicians of the time and contributed significantly to the musical landscape of his era.

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