Births on December 2

James Edward Smith, English botanist and mycologist, founded the Linnean Society (d. 1828)

Sir James Edward Smith (2 December 1759 – 17 March 1828) was an English botanist and founder of the Linnean Society.

11 Jan

Life insurance
In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the first American life insurance company is incorporated.
1 May

Wedgwood
Josiah Wedgwood founds the Wedgwood pottery company in Great Britain.
25 Jul

Fort Niagara
French and Indian War: In Western New York, British forces capture Fort Niagara from the French, who subsequently abandon Fort Rouillé.
1 Aug

Battle of Minden
Seven Years' War: The Battle of Minden, an allied Anglo-German army victory over the French. In Britain this was one of a number of events that constituted the Annus Mirabilis of 1759 and is celebrated as Minden Day by certain British Army regiments.
18 Sep

Quebec City
Seven Years' War: The British capture Quebec City.