1609. Hudson while at anchor in the harbor of New York, was visited by the natives, who made a great show of friendship, giving tobacco and Indian corn.
1649. Drogheda, in Ireland, taken by assault by the English, under Cromwell. A universal massacre was permitted during five days. "I believe we put to the sword," is the general's despatch, "the whole number of the defendants. This is a marvellous great mercy." The garrison alone consisted of 2,500 foot and 300 horse. There was scarce thirty lives saved in the whole town, and these were by Cromwell reserved to be sent to Barbadoes.
1677. James Harrington, an eminent English political writer, died; author of
the political romance of Oceana, in imitation of Plato's Atlantic Story.
1697. The famous peace of Ryswick proclaimed.
1709. Battle of Malplaquet, in Belgium; the allies under the duke of Marlborough and prince Eugene, defeated the French army of 120,000 men, under Villars and de Boufflers. This was a dear victory to the allies, who lost 20,000 of their best troops.
1745. Mary Chandler died; an English lady, distinguished for her poetic talent.
1776. Great tempest on the coast of Newfoundland; a large amount of shipping, and a great number of lives lost.
1777. Battle of Brandywine; the Americans under Washington and Green entirely defeated by the British, under Cornwallis. The Americans lost about 1,300 killed, wounded and prisoners. This was the first battle Lafayette was in; he was wounded in the leg.
1781. John Augustus Ernesti died; professor of theology at Leipsic, and author of numerous literary and theological works.