Politics and Society:
* The British Parliament passed the Plantation Act, which regulated trade with British colonies in America. This law aimed to promote British trade and control colonial economic activity.
* The British Empire establishes the colony of Nova Scotia. This marked the beginning of British rule in what is now eastern Canada.
* King Frederick II of Prussia abolishes serfdom in his territories. This was a significant step towards a more modern and progressive society in Prussia.
Science and Technology:
* Benjamin Franklin discovers the principle of the lightning rod. This invention played a crucial role in protecting buildings from lightning strikes and was a significant development in electrical science.
* The first edition of "The Gentleman's Magazine" is published in London. This magazine was a groundbreaking publication, covering a wide range of topics from science and literature to politics and society.
Culture and Arts:
* The first edition of "The Spectator" is published in London. This periodical was a major influence on English literature and culture, known for its essays and literary criticism.
* Johann Sebastian Bach composes his "Goldberg Variations." This masterpiece of keyboard music is still widely performed and admired today.
Other Notable Events:
* A major earthquake strikes Lisbon, Portugal. This devastating event killed thousands of people and had a significant impact on European society.
* The Swedish East India Company is founded. This company played a significant role in Swedish trade with Asia.
* The first American newspaper, the "Pennsylvania Gazette," is published. This marked the beginning of a vibrant press in the American colonies.
This is just a selection of events that occurred in 1749. Many other significant happenings took place around the world, reflecting the complex and interconnected nature of the 18th century. To learn more about specific areas or events, you can consult historical records and sources.