The classical era of music begins with the death of Bach in 1750 and lasts to about 1810 with the start of the romantic period. Vienna was the musical capital of Europe during the late 18th century and the music of the era was composed in a very distinct style. During this period, many political, intellectual, artistic, social, and musical transformations were occurring. These aspects will be discussed as well as some of the composers of the era.
The classical era is known for being a period of political upheaval. The emphasis on the individual led to the elevation of the individual's role in political life. The idea of the social contract lay behind two of the momentous events of the period "the American and French Revolutions. During this time, the world experienced the influential rules of Louis XV in France and Catherine the Great in Russia. The French Revolution introduced the "Reign of Terror- before Napoleon's rise to power. Some other significant events of the period were the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and King Louis XVI losing his head in 1793. The first modern forms of democratic governments began emerging during this time.
Intellectually, the classical era was a time of technological triumphs and incredible inventions. Benjamin Franklin discovered electricity in 1751. In 1771, the first edition of the Encyclopedia Britannica was published. The steam engine, the cotton gin, and the steamboat were all invented during this period. Vaccinations were discovered and widely put to use. Oxygen was even discovered in 1774. The classical era was obviously a time of intellectual endeavors and scientific discovery.
Artistically during the classical period, ideas were moving forward as well. The world view placed an emphasis on the natural rights of people and on the ability of humans to shape their own environments. Writers like Rousseau and Voltaire helped to shape these ideas by introducing skeptical questions about religion and promoting secular humanism.
