Century - 1700s

Lockyer, a prominent figure in Australian history, primarily lived in the region now known as Queensland. He was notably associated with the area around the Lockyer Valley, which was named in his honor. His explorations and contributions to the region played a significant role in its development during the 19th century.

In 1700, Florida had a subtropical climate characterized by warm temperatures, high humidity, and distinct wet and dry seasons. The state's coastal areas experienced mild winters and hot, humid summers, while the interior regions were typically warmer. Precipitation was abundant, particularly during the summer months, contributing to the lush vegetation and diverse ecosystems that existed at the time. Overall, Florida's climate supported a rich variety of flora and fauna, as well as the indigenous cultures that thrived in the region.

Eighteenth-century ships were primarily made from oak due to its strength, durability, and resistance to rot, making it ideal for shipbuilding. Other types of wood, such as pine and cedar, were also used for various parts of the ship, like masts and decks, due to their lighter weight and workability. The choice of wood often depended on regional availability and the specific requirements of the vessel being built.

John Locke's ideas, particularly his concepts of natural rights and the social contract, posed a threat to 1700s governments by challenging the divine right of kings and absolute monarchy. He argued that governments derive their legitimacy from the consent of the governed and that individuals possess inherent rights to life, liberty, and property. This notion empowered citizens to question and resist oppressive regimes, potentially inciting revolutions and demands for democratic reforms. As such, Locke's philosophy inspired movements for political change, making it a significant threat to established authorities of the time.

In the 18th century, wigs were primarily made from human hair, horsehair, or goat hair. Wealthier individuals often used human hair for a more luxurious appearance, while those with lesser means might opt for animal hair. Wigs were also sometimes padded with materials like wool or cotton to create volume and elaborate styles. Additionally, they were often powdered with starch to achieve a distinctive white or gray look.

The worldwide Advent Awakening, primarily in the 19th century, was marked by several significant events. Key among these was the Great Disappointment of 1844, when many followers of William Miller expected Christ to return, leading to a crisis in faith for many. The movement also saw the formation of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in 1863, which emphasized the observance of the Sabbath and the imminent return of Christ. Additionally, the spread of Adventist beliefs through missionary work and publications helped solidify its global presence.

The Mughal Empire weakened during the 1700s due to a combination of factors, including internal strife, ineffective leadership, and economic decline. The empire faced increasing regional autonomy as local rulers and governors asserted their power, leading to fragmentation. Additionally, external pressures from emerging European powers, particularly the British, further destabilized the empire. This decline culminated in the loss of control over territories and resources, ultimately paving the way for colonial domination.

Six important Loyalists during the 1700s included Joseph Galloway, a prominent politician and member of the Continental Congress; Sir John Johnson, a landowner and military leader; William Franklin, a loyalist leader and son of Benjamin Franklin; Thomas Hutchinson, the last colonial governor of Massachusetts; Edward W. W. Little, a notable Loyalist in New Jersey; and Lydia Baillie, an influential figure in Loyalist circles. These individuals played significant roles in supporting the British Crown during the American Revolutionary War.

An important goal of European mercantilism during the 1600s and 1700s was to increase national wealth and power through a favorable balance of trade. This involved maximizing exports while minimizing imports, ensuring that colonies provided raw materials to the mother country and served as markets for finished goods. Mercantilist policies also aimed to accumulate precious metals, such as gold and silver, to strengthen national economies and assert dominance in global trade. Ultimately, this system sought to enhance national security and influence by controlling economic resources.

By the 18th century, several areas in Europe had not become unified nations under a single ruler. Notably, the Italian Peninsula consisted of various independent states, such as the Papal States, the Kingdom of Sardinia, and the Duchy of Milan. Similarly, the German territories were fragmented into numerous principalities, duchies, and free cities, collectively known as the Holy Roman Empire. Additionally, the region of the Balkans was characterized by a patchwork of ethnic groups and political entities, many of which were under Ottoman control.

In the 18th century, white people were often considered more important than black individuals due to systemic racism and colonialism that reinforced social hierarchies. Enslavement and the exploitation of Black people were prevalent, particularly in the Americas, where they were denied basic human rights and freedoms. This societal structure was justified by pseudoscientific beliefs in racial superiority, leading to widespread discrimination and oppression that favored white people in terms of power, wealth, and social status.

In the Legislative Assembly during the French Revolution, the radicals sat on the left side. This group, known as the Montagnards or Jacobins, advocated for more extreme measures and significant changes in governance, including the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of a republic. Their position on the left symbolized their revolutionary ideals and commitment to social and political reform.

The 13 colonies were largely prevented from moving west in the 1700s due to British colonial policies and treaties, particularly the Proclamation of 1763, which restricted settlement west of the Appalachian Mountains to avoid conflicts with Native American tribes. Additionally, the British government aimed to control westward expansion to manage trade and maintain peace with Indigenous peoples. Economic factors and the challenging terrain also played a role in limiting westward migration.

The German composer of the early 18th century you are referring to is Johann Sebastian Bach. Throughout his life, Bach held various prestigious positions in different cities, including Arnstadt, Mühlhausen, Weimar, Köthen, and Leipzig. His work during these periods significantly contributed to the development of Western classical music, particularly in the realms of sacred and instrumental compositions.

The largest group of migrants to America in the 18th century were enslaved Africans, who were forcibly brought to the continent as part of the transatlantic slave trade. They were primarily transported to work on plantations in the Southern colonies, where their labor was integral to the economy. In addition to enslaved people, there were also significant numbers of European immigrants, including the Scots-Irish and Germans, who sought better opportunities and religious freedom. However, the scale and impact of the enslaved African population were unparalleled during this period.

In the 18th century, the American colonies were diverse and rapidly evolving, characterized by a mix of agricultural economies in the South and burgeoning trade and commerce in the North. Society was stratified, with a clear distinction between wealthy landowners and poorer farmers, and a growing population of enslaved Africans in the South. The Enlightenment and Great Awakening influenced cultural and intellectual life, fostering a spirit of independence and questioning of traditional authority. By the century's end, tensions with Britain over issues like taxation and governance began to sow the seeds of revolution.

In the 1700s, the cost of a cow varied significantly depending on factors such as location, breed, and market conditions. Generally, prices ranged from about £5 to £15 in England, while in colonial America, a cow could cost anywhere from $10 to $20. Economic conditions, local demand, and the quality of the animal also influenced prices.

In the late 1700s, Hispaniola was inhabited primarily by people of African descent, including enslaved individuals who worked on plantations, as well as free people of color. The island was divided between the French-controlled western part, known as Saint-Domingue, and the Spanish eastern part, known as Santo Domingo. The population also included European colonists, indigenous people, and a growing number of mulattoes, who were of mixed African and European ancestry. This diverse demographic laid the groundwork for the Haitian Revolution, which began in 1791.

Yes, matchsticks were used in the 18th century, but they were quite different from the safety matches we use today. Early matches, known as "friction matches," were invented in the early 1800s, but before that, people relied on other methods like flint and steel or burning twigs. Some forms of primitive matches did exist, using sulfur and other materials, but they were not widely available or practical for everyday use.

As of the latest data, Delaware has a workforce of approximately 500,000 people. The state's economy is diverse, with significant employment in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. However, for the most current figures, it's advisable to consult official resources like the Delaware Department of Labor or the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

In the early 1700s, bakers' wages varied significantly depending on their location and the type of bakery they operated. Generally, they earned between 10 to 20 pence a day in England, which could be a decent income relative to other trades at the time. However, wages could fluctuate based on demand, seasonality, and the economic conditions of the area. Overall, bakers were considered skilled laborers and tended to earn more than unskilled workers.

In the UK around 1700, major causes of death included infectious diseases such as smallpox, tuberculosis, and plague, which were rampant due to poor sanitation and limited medical knowledge. Additionally, high infant mortality rates contributed significantly to overall mortality figures. Malnutrition and famine, exacerbated by agricultural challenges, also played a critical role in the high death rates during this period.

In the 1700s and 1800s, slavery was a cornerstone of the Southern economy, primarily driven by agricultural plantations that relied on enslaved labor for crops like cotton and tobacco. In contrast, the Northern states, where slavery was gradually being abolished, had economies that were more industrialized and less reliant on slave labor. The moral and economic debates surrounding slavery created significant regional tensions, ultimately contributing to the Civil War. This divergence in the role and importance of slavery highlighted the contrasting social, economic, and political landscapes of the North and South during this period.

In the 18th century, herbalists were often referred to as "apothecaries" or "herbal physicians." They played a crucial role in medical practice, using plants and natural substances to create remedies for various ailments. Some herbalists were also known as "wise women" or "cunning folk," particularly in rural communities where traditional knowledge was passed down through generations. Their practices laid the groundwork for modern herbal medicine and pharmacology.

The group of patriots formed in 1765 was called the Sons of Liberty. This organization was established to resist British taxation and policies, particularly in response to the Stamp Act. The Sons of Liberty played a crucial role in mobilizing public opposition to British rule and organizing protests, including the Boston Tea Party. Their actions significantly contributed to the growing revolutionary sentiment in the American colonies.