What Happened This Year 1774

People Who Died in 1774

Mustafa III

Ottoman Sultan and Reformer
Born
January 28th, 1717 308 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1774 251 years ago — 56 years old

Ruled as the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1757 until 1774. Focused on military and administrative reforms during a time of territorial conflict and internal strife. Attempted to modernize the army and improve the state’s finances. Sought to strengthen the empire's position against European powers, particularly through military engagements and alliances. Oversaw the continued decline of the Ottoman influence in Europe and faced challenges from both internal factions and external enemies.

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Charles Marie de La Condamine

French mathematician and geographer
Born
January 28th, 1701 324 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1774 251 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1701, contributed to mathematics and geography during the Age of Enlightenment. Participated in the expedition to measure the degrees of the meridian at the equator, leading to important geographical findings. Conducted extensive studies on the Amazon River and its ecology. Authored works that facilitated the understanding of measurements and navigation.

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Oliver Goldsmith

Irish novelist, playwright, and poet
Born
November 10th, 1728 296 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1774 250 years ago — 45 years old

An influential Irish novelist, playwright, and poet. Contributed significantly to English literature in the 18th century. Wrote the play 'She Stoops to Conquer', which is considered a classic of English theatre. Authored the novel 'The Vicar of Wakefield', a notable work in the genre of the sentimental novel. His poetry, including 'The Deserted Village', showcased a blend of pastoral themes and social commentary.

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Anthony Ulrich of Brunswick

Prussian nobleman and political figure
Born
1714 311 years ago
Died
May 4th, 1774 250 years ago — 60 years old

A Prussian nobleman played a role in the political landscape of Germany during the 18th century. As a member of the House of Brunswick, engaged in various political matters and familial alliances. His life was marked by connections to other European nobility, and he navigated the complexities of court politics during a time of significant change in Europe. His lineage contributed to the ongoing dynastic politics of the region, influencing ties between powerful families.

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Louis XV of France

French monarch and ruler in the 18th century
Born
February 15th, 1710 315 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1774 250 years ago — 64 years old

Ruled as King of France from 1715 to 1774. Ascended to the throne at the age of five, following the death of Louis XIV. His reign was marked by increasing centralization of power and significant engagement in wars. Presided over military campaigns during the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. Faced challenges such as growing dissent among the nobility and issues related to financial management. His legacy includes the establishment of the French Enlightenment, promoting arts and architecture in Paris, particularly exemplified by the construction and expansion of the Palace of Versailles. Died in 1774, leaving a complex legacy that influenced the subsequent political landscape of France.

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Henry Fox

English politician and statesman
Born
September 28th, 1705 319 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1774 250 years ago — 68 years old

Served as a prominent English politician during the 18th century. Held the title of 1st Baron Holland and the position of Secretary of State for the Southern Department. Engaged in various political endeavors, contributing to the administration under different monarchs. Played a significant role in shaping policies during a turbulent period in British history, facilitating negotiations and fostering political alliances.

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Anna Morandi Manzolini

Italian anatomist and wax modeler
Born
January 21st, 1714 311 years ago
Died
July 9th, 1774 250 years ago — 60 years old

An anatomist and wax modeler, significant contributions included the creation of detailed anatomical models using wax. Worked at a time when women faced significant barriers in the scientific community. Established a school for anatomical studies and collaborated with prominent anatomists. Published findings in anatomy, detailing complex human structures through meticulously crafted models.

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Sir William Johnson

Irish-English general and official
Born
1715 310 years ago
Died
July 11th, 1774 250 years ago — 59 years old

A prominent military leader, served as Indian agent for the British government in North America from 1756 until death. Played a crucial role in the French and Indian War, overseeing significant campaigns against French forces and their Native American allies. Instrumental in the British victory at the Battle of Lake George in 1755. Additionally, contributed to establishing relations between Native American tribes and the British.

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Johann Jakob Reiske

German physician and scholar
Born
December 25th, 1716 308 years ago
Died
August 14th, 1774 250 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1716, a physician and scholar made significant contributions to the fields of medicine and philology. Associated with the University of Leipzig, he taught several subjects and engaged in notable research. Authored multiple works, emphasizing ancient texts and their translations, particularly focusing on Greek literature. His scholarly endeavors helped preserve and communicate classical knowledge. Actively participated in the academic community, influencing the educational landscape of his time.

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