Events from 1717

John Toland founds Ancient Druid Order, attempting to revive pre-Christian Celtic spirituality

Frederick William I makes education compulsory in Prussia with Pietist pedagogy: 'breaking of natural will is primary purpose'

Lady Mary Wortley Montagu introduces variolation (smallpox inoculation) from Ottoman Empire; 2-3% death rate

Formation of first Grand Lodge in London at Goose and Gridiron alehouse, beginning modern organized Freemasonry