6 January – Western Europe's
Great 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 and
Seine River freeze, crops fail, and 24,000 Parisians die. Floating ice enters the
North 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.