What Happened This Year 1775

Historical Events from This Year 1775 (View all 42)

Politics & Government

British Parliament Declares Massachusetts in Rebellion

February 9th, 1775 250 years ago

On February 9, 1775, the British Parliament declared Massachusetts to be in a state of rebellion. This declaration was a response to escalating tensions and violent confrontations between British authorities and colonial militias, particularly following incidents such as the Battles of Lexington and Concord. The decision by Parliament marked a significant point in the deterioration of relationships between Great Britain and its American colonies, illustrating the growing rift over governance, taxation, and representation rights within the colonies. The declaration served as both a formal recognition of colonial resistance and an impetus for heightened military engagement.

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Military & Warfare

Moro Pirates Destroy East India Company Factory

February 26th, 1775 250 years ago

Moro pirates launched an attack on the British East India Company's factory situated on Balambangan Island, destroying it completely. This event highlighted the ongoing tensions in the region and the threats posed by pirate activities to colonial trade interests. The British had established the factory for trading purposes and to assert their influence in the area, but the attack by the Moro pirates demonstrated the vulnerabilities of colonial establishments in hostile territories.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Call for Emancipation in Colonial America

March 8th, 1775 250 years ago

An anonymous writer, possibly Thomas Paine, published 'African Slavery in America', marking a significant call for the emancipation of enslaved individuals and the abolition of slavery in the American colonies. This publication expressed moral and ethical arguments against slavery, challenging societal norms and igniting discussions on human rights and justice. The piece gained attention for its compelling rhetoric and was considered a pioneering work in the abolitionist movement within the colonies. Its impact reverberated through various abolitionist circles, influencing perceptions of slavery and freedom.

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Politics & Government

Patrick Henry's Call for Liberty

March 23rd, 1775 249 years ago

At St. John's Episcopal Church in Richmond, Virginia, Patrick Henry delivered a passionate speech advocating for the colonies' right to freedom from British rule. Henry's famous conclusion, 'Give me liberty or give me death!', energized delegates at the Second Virginia Convention. His words expressed both the urgency and necessity of standing against tyranny, highlighting the growing sentiment for independence among the colonies.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Formation of the First Abolition Society in America

April 14th, 1775 249 years ago

In Philadelphia, Benjamin Franklin and Benjamin Rush established 'The Society for the Relief of Free Negroes Unlawfully Held in Bondage'. The organization aimed to aid free Africans facing enslavement and promote their rights. Franklin and Rush, both prominent figures in the American Enlightenment, sought to challenge the institution of slavery and advocate for social justice. Their efforts marked a pivotal moment in the abolition movement and laid the groundwork for future advocacy against slavery.

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Military & Warfare

Paul Revere's Ride and British Advance

April 18th, 1775 249 years ago

Paul Revere, a silversmith and patriot, embarked on a midnight ride from Boston to Lexington to warn colonial militias of British troop movements aimed at seizing arms and arresting revolutionaries. Along with fellow riders, he spread the alert through the countryside, famously calling, 'The British are coming!' His efforts galvanized local militias, preparing them for confrontation as British forces advanced by sea, ultimately igniting the American Revolution.

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Born in 1775 (View all 33)

Francis Caulfeild

2nd Earl of Charlemont, Irish Politician
Born
January 3rd, 1775 250 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1863 161 years ago — 88 years old

Served as the 2nd Earl of Charlemont and held a prominent position in Irish politics during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Played a key role in advocating for parliamentary reform and contributed to the establishment of the Volunteer Movement, which aimed to strengthen Irish self-governance. Engaged in various social and political issues of the time and was involved in the establishment of the Royal Irish Academy.

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André-Marie Ampère

French physicist and mathematician
Born
January 20th, 1775 250 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1836 188 years ago — 61 years old

Contributed to the foundation of electrodynamics and made significant advancements in physics and mathematics. Ampère defined the relationship between electric current and magnetic fields, laying the groundwork for the field of electromagnetism. His work led to the formulation of Ampère's Law, which quantifies the magnetic force generated by electric currents. Additionally, he co-founded the field of electrodynamics, which focuses on the interactions between electrical charges and currents. The unit of electric current, the ampere, was named in his honor.

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Manuel Garcia

Spanish opera singer and composer
Born
January 21st, 1775 250 years ago
Died
1832 193 years ago — 57 years old

An influential opera singer and composer, contributed significantly to the development of vocal technique and opera in the 19th century. Held a prominent role in the operatic scene, gaining recognition for performances and compositions. A teacher of singing, introduced innovative vocal methods, leading to the evolution of operatic training. His contributions to opera and education were pivotal in shaping future generations of singers.

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Friedrich Wilhelm Joseph Schelling

German-Swiss philosopher and academic
Born
January 27th, 1775 250 years ago
Died
1854 171 years ago — 79 years old

Contributed significantly to German idealism and introduced concepts such as the philosophy of nature. Explored the relationship between freedom, nature, and the human spirit. Engaged in a philosophical rivalry with contemporaries like Hegel and influenced later existential and romantic thought. Held various academic positions, including a professorship in philosophy at the University of Jena.

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Walter Savage Landor

English poet and author of 'Imaginary Conversations'
Born
January 30th, 1775 250 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1864 160 years ago — 89 years old

An English poet and author, produced a significant body of work during the 19th century. Gained early fame for poetry and later for prose writings, especially noted for the series of dialogues called 'Imaginary Conversations' that featured historical and fictional characters. Engaged in literary circles, becoming associated with prominent figures of the time. His works often displayed a blend of classical themes and contemporary issues, reflecting personal beliefs and societal critiques. Landor's writing style was characterized by a rich vocabulary and eloquence. Spent a significant portion of life in Italy, influencing his writing and philosophical outlook.

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Farkas Bolyai

Hungarian mathematician and academic
Born
February 9th, 1775 250 years ago
Died
November 20th, 1856 168 years ago — 81 years old

Contributed significantly to the development of non-Euclidean geometry. Established mathematical theories alongside his son, János Bolyai. Served as a professor at the University of Marosvásárhely. Published works that laid foundational insights for later mathematical advancements, influencing both geometry and philosophy of mathematics.

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People Who Died in 1775 (View all 16)

John Baskerville

Printer and type designer of Baskerville
Born
January 28th, 1706 319 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1775 250 years ago — 68 years old

An English printer and typographer associated with the transition from old-style to modern typography. Developed the Baskerville typeface, characterized by its elegance and readability. Established a printing press in Birmingham, producing high-quality books noted for their clear type and layout. Innovated printing techniques, including the use of a special varnish to improve ink quality. Published editions of classical works and religious texts, garnering attention for aesthetic standards in printing.

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Johann Georg Walch

Theologian and author of theological works
Born
June 17th, 1693 331 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1775 250 years ago — 81 years old

A prominent German theologian and author, contributed extensively to Lutheran theology during the 18th century. Focused on the reconciliation of confessional differences within Lutheranism and the broader Christian community. Published significant works that addressed doctrinal issues and interpretations of Scripture. Played a crucial role in educational reforms for the clergy, promoting theological training and biblical scholarship.

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Giovanni Battista Sammartini

Italian composer and organist
Born
1700 325 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1775 250 years ago — 75 years old

This individual served as an influential figure in the early classical music period. Active primarily in the 18th century, significant contributions included symphonies that preceded the later works of prominent composers. Worked in Milan, providing music for various religious and civic events. Played a critical role in the development of early symphonic forms, and his influence is noted in the works of later composers. His compositions laid groundwork for the transition from the Baroque to the Classical style.

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Yemelyan Pugachev

Russian rebel leader of 1773-1774 uprising
Born
1742 283 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1775 250 years ago — 33 years old

Led a major uprising against the Russian monarchy from 1773 to 1775. Started the rebellion claiming to be the deceased Tsar Peter III. Gained the support of peasants and Cossacks, establishing an extensive, albeit short-lived, control over parts of Russia. The rebellion was marked by several key battles and the capture of the city of Kazan. Eventually defeated by government forces, he was captured in 1775 and executed.

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Eusebius Amort

Theologian and academic
Born
November 15th, 1692 332 years ago
Died
February 5th, 1775 250 years ago — 82 years old

Eusebius Amort contributed significantly to theology and academic instruction in the 18th century. Amort's works focused on dogmatic theology, and he played a key role in several ecclesiastical and educational reforms within the church. As a prominent figure in the Catholic Church, he authored multiple texts aimed at improving theological education and providing clarity on doctrinal issues. Amort engaged in discussions about the role of faith and reason, influencing theological thought during his time. His scholarly efforts contributed to a deeper understanding of Catholic doctrine.

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John Pitcairn

Scottish-English soldier and commander
Born
1722 303 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1775 249 years ago — 53 years old

Participated in the early battles of the American Revolutionary War. Commanded a unit of British Marines during the Battles of Lexington and Concord in April 1775. Played a significant role in the initial confrontations between British troops and colonial militias. Died in action at the Battle of Bunker Hill in June 1775, becoming a noted figure in British military history.

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