What Happened This Year 1788

People Who Died in 1788

François Joseph Paul de Grasse

French admiral and naval commander
Born
1722 303 years ago
Died
January 11th, 1788 237 years ago — 66 years old

Served as a French admiral during the American Revolutionary War. Commanded the French fleet at the Battle of the Chesapeake in 1781, which played a crucial role in the victory of American and French forces over the British. His strategic leadership contributed to the successful Siege of Yorktown, leading to the surrender of British General Cornwallis. Returned to France after the war and continued to serve in various naval capacities until death.

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John Whitehurst

Geologist and clockmaker; invented clocks.
Born
April 10th, 1713 311 years ago
Died
February 18th, 1788 237 years ago — 74 years old

An English geologist and clockmaker, this individual contributed significantly to the fields of horology and geology during the 18th century. He developed innovative clock mechanisms that improved precision and accuracy. His work in geology involved detailed studies of fossils and the stratification of geological layers, providing insights into Earth's history. This individual published works on geology that were influential in shaping the scientific understanding of the time.

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Charles Wesley

English missionary and hymn writer
Born
December 18th, 1707 317 years ago
Died
March 29th, 1788 236 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent figure in the Methodist movement, contributed extensively to the development of Christian hymnody. Served as a missionary, spreading the teachings of Methodism while promoting social reform. Authored numerous hymns and poems that emphasized spirituality and devotion. Collaborated closely with his brother, John Wesley, to establish the Methodist Church, which emphasized personal piety and direct experience of God.

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Giuseppe Bonno

Austrian composer of operas
Born
January 29th, 1711 314 years ago
Died
April 15th, 1788 236 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1711, significant contributions to the genre of opera took place. Served as a composer and conductor in the court of Empress Maria Theresa. Created several operas, notably 'Il mondo della luna', which received acclaim in its time. Participated actively in the theatrical culture of Vienna during the 18th century. His works characterized by lyrical melodies and engaging narratives became a part of the operatic repertoire of the period.

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Georges-Louis Leclerc

French mathematician and cosmologist
Born
September 7th, 1707 317 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1788 236 years ago — 80 years old

Significant contributions were made to the fields of natural history, mathematics, and cosmology. Authored 'Histoire naturelle', a comprehensive work that detailed various aspects of the natural world, integrating scientific observations with philosophical reflection. Played a crucial role in the discourse on species classification and the evolution of life forms, impacting future studies in biology and ecology. Developed theories on the Earth's history and the concept of species changing over time, anticipating modern evolutionary ideas.

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Giovanni Antonio Scopoli

Italian physician and botanist
Born
June 3rd, 1723 301 years ago
Died
May 8th, 1788 236 years ago — 64 years old

Contributions included studies in natural history, particularly in botany and geology. Published 'Historia Naturalis' in 1777, detailing observations of various plant species and their classifications. Served as a physician in multiple regions and contributed to the field of medicine with his knowledge of local flora. Conducted extensive research in mineralogy and published 'Silvia Carniolica' in 1760, a foundational work on the flora of the Carniola region, enhancing understanding of European biodiversity.

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Adam Gib

Scottish minister and author of sermons
Born
April 14th, 1714 310 years ago
Died
June 18th, 1788 236 years ago — 74 years old

Served as a minister in the Church of Scotland and contributed to religious literature during the 18th century. Authored several sermons and theological writings that reflected the religious sentiments of the time. Focused on the spiritual needs of his congregation and emphasized the importance of faith and moral conduct. Played a role in the Scottish Enlightenment through his writings, which communicated religious ideas to a broader audience. His works often addressed contemporary social issues while aiming to provide guidance and inspiration.

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Thomas Gainsborough

English painter of landscapes and portraits
Born
May 14th, 1727 297 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1788 236 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1727, this painter specialized in portraiture and landscape painting. His work displayed a mastery of color and light, contributing significantly to English art. The most notable creations include 'The Blue Boy' and the portrait of Sarah Siddons. Operating primarily in Bath and London, he was a key figure in the 18th-century art scene. Gainsborough established a significant reputation through his innovative approach to depicting subjects with a naturalistic quality, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity in painting. He also was a founding member of the Royal Academy, further solidifying his legacy in the arts.

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William Brodie

Scottish businessman and politician
Born
1741 284 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1788 236 years ago — 47 years old

Brodie served as a prominent businessman and politician in Edinburgh, Scotland. He established a successful cabinet-making business and became a respected name in his field. His dual life as a businessman and a politician became notorious when he was implicated in criminal activities, culminating in his arrest. His public persona as a respected citizen sharply contrasted with his secret life, leading to his eventual trial and execution. Brodie's story inspired the creation of the fictional character Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson, linking his legacy to literature.

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