What Happened This Year 1787

People Who Died in 1787

Roger Joseph Boscovich

Physicist and philosopher of science
Born
May 18th, 1711 313 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1787 238 years ago — 75 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of physics, astronomy, and mathematics during the 18th century. Developed a coherent atomic theory integrating various scientific disciplines. Formulated Boscovich's theory of forces, which described the interactions between particles. Engaged in extensive work on celestial mechanics and was involved in the construction of the first observatory in Croatia. Also contributed to the study of the Earth's curvature and geodesy. Authored numerous works that combined philosophy and science, leaving a legacy in both disciplines.

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Charles Gravier

French Foreign Minister during American Revolution
Born
1717 308 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1787 238 years ago — 70 years old

Served as Foreign Minister of France from 1776 until death in 1787. Played a crucial role in securing French support for the American colonies during the American Revolutionary War. Worked to establish alliances that would weaken British power and enhance French interests. Influenced French foreign policy through strategic diplomacy, fostering relationships with various European powers. Served prior as a diplomat in various capacities, particularly in Sweden and Prussia.

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Floyer Sydenham

English scholar and academic teacher
Born
1710 315 years ago
Died
April 1st, 1787 237 years ago — 77 years old

Contributed to the fields of medicine and literature in the 17th century. Focused on the human condition and the development of an effective medical education system. Wrote extensively on various subjects, emphasizing the importance of empirical evidence and observation in medical practice. Was a key figure in the establishment of the study of diseases and their treatments.

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Thomas Gage

English general and politician, Governor
Born
1719 306 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1787 237 years ago — 68 years old

An English general served as the Governor of the Province of Massachusetts Bay during the American Revolution. Commanded British troops at the Battles of Lexington and Concord in April 1775, marking the beginning of open conflict between the Thirteen Colonies and Great Britain. Held the position of governor from 1774 until 1775, overseeing the enforcement of the Intolerable Acts. After the initial confrontations of the war, returned to England and continued a military career.

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William Watson

Physician, physicist, and botanist
Born
April 3rd, 1715 309 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1787 237 years ago — 72 years old

A physician and physicist from England, contributed significantly to the field of electrical science in the 18th century. Developed theories around electricity that laid foundational work for future studies. Conducted experiments with Leyden jars and investigated the properties of lightning. Additionally, served as a botanist, contributing to the understanding of plant physiology. Published various writings that added to the scientific discourse of the time.

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Leopold Mozart

Austrian composer and violinist
Born
November 14th, 1719 305 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1787 237 years ago — 67 years old

Austrian composer and violinist contributed significantly to the development of violin pedagogy. Wrote the treatise 'Versuch einer gründlichen Violinschule' which laid foundational techniques for violin playing. Worked as a court musician in Salzburg and taught music to his children, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. His approach to music education influenced generations of musicians.

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Carl Friedrich Abel

German viol player and composer
Born
1723 302 years ago
Died
June 20th, 1787 237 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent viol player and composer contributed significantly to the development of the viola da gamba repertoire. Abel frequently performed as a soloist and chamber musician across Europe, showcasing his skills in various cities. Composed numerous sonatas and concertos for the viol, demonstrating a deep understanding of the instrument. His work helped popularize the viol in the 18th century and influenced later composers. Established a successful association with the Bach family, notably hosting performances in London.

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Charles de Rohan

French Marshal and military leader
Born
1715 310 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1787 237 years ago — 72 years old

Served as a prominent French marshal during the 18th century, actively participating in significant military campaigns. Held various commands within the French army, particularly during the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. Played a crucial role in the French military hierarchy and was involved in various diplomatic missions.

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Alphonsus Maria de' Liguori

Italian bishop and founder of a religious order
Born
September 27th, 1696 328 years ago
Died
August 1st, 1787 237 years ago — 90 years old

Born in 1696, served as a bishop and established the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, also known as the Redemptorists. His work focused on pastoral care and education, emphasizing the importance of moral theology. Author of numerous theological writings, contributed significantly to Catholic spirituality. Canonized as a saint in 1839, recognized for his dedication and devotion to the church and the faithful.

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