Births on May 20

William Thornton

Born on May 20, 1759

William Thornton, Virgin Islander-American architect, designed the United States Capitol (d. 1828)

William Thornton (May 20, 1759 – March 28, 1828) was a British-American physician, inventor, painter and architect who designed the United States Capitol. He also served as the first Architect of the Capitol and first Superintendent of the United States Patent Office.

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Events on 1759

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.

Births on May 20

William Thornton

Born on May 20, 1759

References

Choose Another Date

Events on 1759

Life insurance

Wedgwood

Fort Niagara

Battle of Minden

Quebec City