Historical Events tagged with "politics"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Ferdinand III Ascends as Holy Roman Emperor

February 15th, 1637 388 years ago

Ferdinand III was officially elected as Holy Roman Emperor in 1637, marking a significant moment in the history of the Holy Roman Empire. He was the eldest son of Ferdinand II and served as a key figure during the Thirty Years' War. His election came during a tumultuous period characterized by religious conflict and political strife within Central Europe. Elevated to power in the city of Frankfurt, Ferdinand III’s ascension to the throne was recognized by several princes and came amidst ongoing negotiations for peace in the war-torn regions.

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Crime & Law

Urbain Grandier Executed for Sorcery in Loudun

August 18th, 1634 390 years ago

Urbain Grandier was accused of sorcery by a group of nuns in Loudun, France, leading to a sensational trial that captivated the public's attention. After being convicted, he was sentenced to death. On the day of his execution, Grandier was burned alive in the town's square, with the event attended by a large crowd that included officials, townspeople, and other interested parties. His conviction was rooted in accusations of witchcraft and demonic possession, fueled by political and religious tensions in the region.

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Politics & Government

Return of Quebec to French Control

March 29th, 1632 393 years ago

The Treaty of Saint-Germain marked the return of Quebec to French control after previously being seized by the English in 1629. This agreement officially reaffirmed French sovereignty over the territory. The negotiations stemmed from tensions between France and England following the latter's temporary occupation of Quebec during the Anglo-French War. The treaty helped to restore relationships and set the stage for future colonial endeavors in North America.

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Politics & Government

Charles I Ends Parliament's Role in Governance

March 10th, 1629 396 years ago

King Charles I of England dissolved Parliament due to conflicts with the members concerning his rule. This act marked the beginning of an eleven-year period known as the Personal Rule, during which the King ruled without Parliament, advocating for his beliefs against the growing power of parliamentary governance. His belief in the divine right of kings led him to implement direct rule, relying on various forms of taxation and enforcing his policies without legislative approval. This period significantly shaped the political landscape of England.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of George Villiers by John Felton

August 23rd, 1628 396 years ago

George Villiers, the first Duke of Buckingham, was assassinated in Portsmouth by John Felton, a disgruntled soldier. Felton held Villiers responsible for the failures in military campaigns and government corruption, leading to his attack. The assassination took place inside a boarding house where Villiers was staying, shocking the court and the nations both in England and abroad.

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Politics & Government

Ship Tax Mandated for All Counties in England

March 1st, 1628 397 years ago

In February, Charles I issued writs requiring every county in England to pay a newly mandated ship tax. This tax, initially aimed at seaport towns, aimed to fund the naval fleet amidst growing tensions and military needs. The requirement, however, stirred considerable controversy among landowners and the populace who opposed the unjust nature of taxation without parliamentary consent.

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Politics & Government

King Charles I Marries Henrietta Maria

June 13th, 1625 399 years ago

King Charles I of England married Henrietta Maria, a Catholic princess from France and Navarre, in Canterbury. The marriage aimed to strengthen ties between England and France amidst religious tensions. It was a politically significant union as Henrietta Maria's Catholic faith posed challenges in an increasingly Protestant England.

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Politics & Government

Cardinal Richelieu Appointed Prime Minister

August 13th, 1624 400 years ago

Louis XIII appointed Cardinal Armand Jean du Plessis, known as Cardinal Richelieu, as his chief minister, solidifying the latter’s power in France. This pivotal decision was made during a period marked by political instability and conflicts, both internal and external. Richelieu, who had previously served the king in various roles, was entrusted with the task of strengthening royal authority and enhancing the French state's influence in Europe, setting the stage for significant changes in French governance and foreign policy.

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Politics & Government

Cardinal Richelieu Takes Charge as Advisor

August 12th, 1624 400 years ago

Charles de La Vieuville was arrested and dismissed as the chief advisor to King Louis XIII of France, and Cardinal Richelieu was appointed to take his place. This marked a significant shift in the power dynamics of the French court, with Richelieu's rise to power signaling the beginning of a new political era focused on centralization and strength in governance. The change was driven by the king's dissatisfaction with La Vieuville's leadership, particularly in matters of foreign policy and internal dissent.

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