Paris Circa 1750

The mid-18th century was a time of significant cultural and social change in Paris. While records from this period are not as detailed as those from more recent times, several noteworthy events and trends were ongoing in Paris around 1750:

The Enlightenment: Paris was a major center of the Enlightenment, a movement of intellectual and philosophical advancement that emphasized reason and individualism. Many notable philosophers and thinkers, such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Diderot, were active during this period.

Encyclopédie: In the realm of knowledge and education, 1751 saw the first volume of the Encyclopédie published, edited by Denis Diderot and Jean le Rond d’Alembert. Work on this massive project, which was one of the key accomplishments of the French Enlightenment, would have been ongoing throughout 1750.

Growth of the City: The mid-18th century was a period of significant growth and change in Paris. The city’s population was increasing rapidly, and this led to the expansion of the city’s boundaries and the creation of new neighborhoods.

Cultural Developments: In terms of culture, this was the era of Rococo art and architecture, and Paris was its epicenter. Characterized by ornate decoration and a focus on light and color, Rococo was the dominant style in everything from buildings to paintings to furniture.

Economic Activity: Paris was one of the leading economic centers of Europe, and the mid-18th century saw growth in various sectors. Textile production, printing, and luxury goods like fashion and jewelry were particularly important industries in Paris during this time.

While these are not specific “events,” they provide a sense of the broader context and the significant developments happening in and around Paris in 1750.