What Happened This Year 1780

People Who Died in 1780

William Blackstone

English jurist and author of Commentaries
Born
July 10th, 1723 301 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1780 245 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent English jurist and politician, Blackstone is most recognized for his work in legal scholarship and education. The publication of 'Commentaries on the Laws of England,' completed in 1765, provided a comprehensive overview of English law and influenced legal education and practice in England and America. Blackstone served as a member of the House of Commons and was also appointed as a professor of law at Oxford University, where he contributed to the development of legal thought.

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Kristijonas Donelaitis

Lithuanian poet and pastor known for 'Metai'
Born
January 1st, 1714 311 years ago
Died
February 18th, 1780 245 years ago — 66 years old

A prominent figure in Lithuanian literature, made significant contributions as a poet and pastor. Most noted for the narrative poem 'Metai' ('The Seasons'), which reflects rural life and Lithuanian traditions. The work is considered a classic of Lithuanian literature and is one of the first written Lithuanian poems, showcasing the language and culture of the time.

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Benjamin Truman

Brewer and businessman in England
Born
1699 326 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1780 244 years ago — 81 years old

Established a successful brewing business in England during the 18th century. Contributed to the development of the beer industry through innovation and quality production. Operated a brewery that gained recognition for its distinct ales and lagers. His work laid the groundwork for future brewing practices in the region.

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Charles I

Duke of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel
Born
August 1st, 1713 311 years ago
Died
March 26th, 1780 244 years ago — 66 years old

Ruled as Duke of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel from 1735 until death in 1780. Participated in various military campaigns, particularly in the Seven Years' War. Oversaw the duchy's affairs and maintained its influence within the Holy Roman Empire. Charles was instrumental in forming alliances and navigating the political landscape of the time.

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Charles Hardy

Admiral and Colonial Governor
Born
1714 311 years ago
Died
May 18th, 1780 244 years ago — 66 years old

An English-American admiral and politician served as the 29th Colonial Governor of New York from 1755 until 1757. During the French and Indian War, commanded naval operations in the Caribbean and contributed to military efforts against French forces. Played a significant role in the protection of colonial interests in North America and held various political offices that influenced colonial governance. Participated in the British military hierarchy and maintained key responsibilities in naval strategy during a critical period leading up to the American Revolution.

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Thomas Hutchinson

Historian and Governor of Massachusetts Bay
Born
September 9th, 1711 313 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1780 244 years ago — 68 years old

An English historian and politician, served as the last civilian Governor of the province of Massachusetts Bay before the American Revolution. Hutchinson's tenure as governor coincided with a period of escalating tensions between the colonies and Great Britain. He authored several historical works, including a significant history of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, providing insights into colonial life and governance. His writings offer detailed accounts of the political and social circumstances of his time. Hutchinson faced strong opposition from rebel factions during the revolution, leading to his eventual departure from Boston in 1774.

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Prince Charles Alexander of Lorraine

Military leader and governor in Austria
Born
1712 313 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1780 244 years ago — 68 years old

A military leader and governor served the Austrian Empire during the 18th century. Participated in various military campaigns including the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. Held the title of Duke of Lorraine and played a significant role in military strategies of his time. Governed the Austrian Netherlands and was an important noble figure in the region, contributing to both military and administrative affairs until death in 1780.

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Charles Batteux

French philosopher, aesthetics pioneer
Born
May 6th, 1713 311 years ago
Died
July 14th, 1780 244 years ago — 67 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of aesthetics and philosophy. Developed ideas regarding the nature of beauty and the relationship between the arts. Served as a professor at the Collège royal. Authored influential works on aesthetics and introduced concepts that would shape future philosophical discourse.

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Étienne Bonnot de Condillac

Epistemologist and philosopher of senses
Born
September 30th, 1714 310 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1780 244 years ago — 65 years old

Contributed significantly to the field of epistemology and philosophy, focusing on the role of the senses in the formation of knowledge. Developed the concept of sensationalism, arguing that all knowledge is derived from sensory experience. Published major works including 'Treatise on Systems' and 'Essai sur l'origine des connaissances'. Explored the implications of language and representation in human thought.

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