Events from 1748

Euler publishes 'Introductio in analysin infinitorum', systematically developing mathematical analysis

Leonhard Euler develops theory of polyhedra and Euler's formula V - E + F = 2

La Mettrie's 'Man a Machine' - pure materialism: 'The soul is but an empty word'

Hume's 'Enquiry Concerning Human Understanding' - miracles impossible, 'commit it to the flames'

Montesquieu's Spirit of the Laws - separation of powers doctrine, profoundly influences constitutional design

Pompeii rediscovered and excavated - Spanish engineer finds city, plaster cast technique reveals victims' final moments