1785
Lavoisier Disproves Phlogiston
In a series of elegant sealed-vessel experiments, Antoine Lavoisier proved that combustion was combination with oxygen, not the release of some mysterious…
Warren Hastings Recalled from India
Bengal's brilliant, controversial governor-general returned to England after thirteen years.
Qing Vietnam Campaign
Qianlong sent a Qing army into Vietnam to restore the Le dynasty against the Tay Son brothers.
First Channel Crossing by Balloon
Jean-Pierre Blanchard and the American doctor John Jeffries crossed from Dover to Calais in a hydrogen balloon, throwing out ballast including their clothes…
Abigail Adams in London
As wife of the first U.S.
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Frequently asked
What happened in the year 1785?
Saeculum lists 5 events from 1785. The most significant is Lavoisier Disproves Phlogiston.
What era was 1785 part of?
1785 falls within the Enlightenment (1651-1800). Reason, revolution, and the first global wars.
Which regions saw notable events in 1785?
The events from 1785 span Europe, South Asia and Southeast Asia.