6 January – Western Europe'sGreat Frost of 1709, the coldest period in 500 years, begins during the night, lasting three months, with its effects felt for the entire year.[2] In France, the Atlantic coast andSeine River freeze, crops fail, and 24,000 Parisians die. Floating ice enters theNorth Sea.
11 September –Battle of Malplaquet (War of the Spanish Succession) fought near the French border: French strategic victory but tactical victory for the opposing alliance.