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Edward Young
1765Apr, 5

Edward Young

Edward Young, English poet and author (b. 1683)
Edward Young (c. 3 July 1683 – 5 April 1765) was an English poet, best remembered for Night-Thoughts, a series of philosophical writings in blank verse, reflecting his state of mind following several bereavements. It was one of the most popular poems of the century, influencing Goethe and Edmund Burke, among many others, with its notable illustrations by William Blake.

Young also took holy orders, and wrote many fawning letters in search of preferment, attracting accusations of insincerity.

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Events on 1765

  • 9Mar

    Jean Calas

    After a campaign by the writer Voltaire, judges in Paris posthumously exonerate Jean Calas of murdering his son. Calas had been tortured and executed in 1762 on the charge, though his son may have actually committed suicide.
  • 22Mar

    Stamp Act 1765

    The British Parliament passes the Stamp Act that introduces a tax to be levied directly on its American colonies.
  • 24Mar

    Quartering Act

    Great Britain passes the Quartering Act, which requires the Thirteen Colonies to house British troops.