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Great Frost of 1709
The Great Frost was an incredibly cold winter Europe experienced in 1709. France was arguably hit hardest, with 600,000 deaths recorded due to the cold. Furthermore, the extreme cold was likely the reason for mass emigration of German Palestines from Central Europe. -
War of Spanish Succession
After Charles II left the spanish throne with no heir, a conflict arose over who should take over. Although the throne was originally left to Prince Joseph Ferdinand of Bavaria, his untimely death lead to three other parties (England, France, and Dutch Republic) to fight for control. It was concluded with treaties that kept Philip V the king of Spain. -
Britain assumes control of trade in Asia
Although the Portuguese and Dutch presence in Asia blocked Britain from becoming involved in Asian trade for some time, in 1716 that all changed. When the Dutch government changed their consumption patterns and lost their grasp of power in Asia, therefore giving Britain an in. The British East India Tea company became extremely powerful, and caused many conflicts throughout history. -
Villasur Expedition
This Spanish military expedition sought to assess the growing French presence in the Great Plains of America. Attacked in Nebraska by two native tribes, many natives and Spanish explorers were killed. Some Spanish survivors made it back to their New base. -
Great Plague of Marseille
Last of the major outbreaks of the bubonic plague that significantly impacted Europe. The Great Plague hurt France in 1720-1721 and killed 100,000 people. However devastating, Marseille was able to rebound fairly quickly, since trade expanded and helped the economy recover. -
Slavery is abolished in Russia
Peter the Great converts all current slaves into serfs, being one of the first rulers to abolish slavery during this time period. -
Invention of Flying Shuttle
One of the key developments in an industrializing Europe. It allowed the textile industry to produce goods much more efficiently. -
War of Jenkins' Ear
Conflict between Britain and Span in the Caribbean lasting between 1739-1748. The conflict began when a captain of a British merchant ship, Robert Jenkins had his ear severed by Spaniards. People believed that a victory would mean increased trade for the British, however with the War of Austrian Succession well underway, less focus was paid to the Caribbean. -
Frederick the Great comes to power in Russia
Fredrick the Great was a good ruler in Russia, and his brilliant military tactics enlarged Prussia's territories, making it one of the largest superpowers in the world at that time. He was an Enlightened Absolute monarch, encouraging the arts and development in his kingdom. -
Treaty of Paris
The Treaty of Paris brought the end to the French and Indian War. France was effectively rid of all of their North American colonies and Britain was able to become more powerful in the New World.
