What Happened This Year 1397

Historical Events from This Year 1397

Politics & Government

Formation of the Kalmar Union by Margaret I

June 17th, 1397 627 years ago

Margaret I of Denmark successfully united Denmark, Norway, and Sweden under the Kalmar Union. This union was ceremoniously established in the city of Kalmar, Sweden, bringing the three kingdoms together for the first time. The formation aimed to strengthen alliances and consolidate power against external threats, especially from the Hanseatic League. The event marked a pivotal moment in the Nordic countries' history, as it sought to create a unified front for economic and political stability.

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Born in 1397 (View all 10)

Sejong the Great

Korean king and inventor of Hangul
Born
May 15th, 1397 627 years ago
Died
April 8th, 1450 574 years ago — 52 years old

As the fourth king of the Joseon Dynasty, significant contributions were made to Korean culture and governance. Promoted scientific advancements, resulting in inventions such as the rain gauge and rain-making machine. Established Hangul, the Korean writing system, to improve literacy among common people. Advocated for Confucian principles, which shaped societal norms and education.

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Guillaume Dufay

Composer and music theorist
Born
August 5th, 1397 627 years ago
Died
1474 551 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1397, a significant figure in early Renaissance music. Played a crucial role in the development of polyphonic music, blending French and Italian styles. His compositions include sacred music, motets, and secular chansons, influencing the direction of Western music. Dufay served as a composer for several churches and courts, including the Cathedral of Cambrai. Created notable works that showcased innovation in musical structure and harmony, contributing to the evolution of liturgical music during the Renaissance.

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Albert II of Germany

Holy Roman Emperor and king
Born
August 10th, 1397 627 years ago
Died
October 27th, 1439 585 years ago — 42 years old

Born in 1397, this figure served as Holy Roman Emperor and king, leading the empire during a critical period of political turmoil. Ascending to power in 1438, he faced challenges from rival factions and secured his reign amidst ongoing conflicts. His leadership was marked by efforts to centralize authority and navigate the complexities of feudal allegiances. Engaging in military campaigns, he sought to assert imperial power and influence across Europe, while juggling the interests of various noble houses. His reign laid the groundwork for the subsequent Habsburg dominance in the empire, influencing future political landscapes.

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Nicholas V

Pope during the Renaissance era
Born
November 15th, 1397 627 years ago
Died
1455 570 years ago — 58 years old

Served as pope from 1447 to 1455. Initiated the rebuilding of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, promoting Renaissance architecture. Established the Vatican's first library, collecting many ancient texts. Faced challenges with the expansion of the Ottoman Empire and sought to strengthen the Catholic Church's influence across Europe.

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Guillaume Du Fay

French composer of sacred music
Born
1397 628 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1474 550 years ago — 77 years old

Active during the early Renaissance, this composer contributed significantly to the development of musical forms and techniques. Renowned for blending French and Italian styles, compositions include masses, motets, and secular songs. His work influenced the evolution of polyphony and notation in liturgical music. The composer served in various esteemed positions at different European courts and churches, leaving a lasting legacy in the sacred music repertoire.

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Ausiàs March

Catalan poet and knight
Born
1397 628 years ago
Died
March 3rd, 1459 566 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent figure in Catalan literature, composed poetry that explored themes of love and philosophy. His work is considered a significant contribution to the Valencian school of poetry. March's style influenced later poets, and several of his poems are still celebrated for their emotional depth and complex imagery. His life spanned a time of political strife in the Crown of Aragon, yet his poetry served as a reflection on the human condition, showcasing a blend of medieval and early Renaissance ideas.

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People Who Died in 1397 (View all 9)

Skirgaila

Grand Duke of Lithuania
Died
January 11th, 1397 628 years ago — None years old

Ruled as Grand Duke of Lithuania during the late 14th century. Oversaw significant territorial expansion and consolidation of power in the region. Engaged in various military campaigns to strengthen the Lithuanian state against external threats, particularly from the Teutonic Order. Skirgaila's reign included key alliances and diplomatic efforts to enhance Lithuania's influence in Eastern Europe.

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Enguerrand VII

French nobleman and military leader
Born
1340 685 years ago
Died
February 18th, 1397 628 years ago — 57 years old

A prominent French nobleman in the 14th century, distinguished for his role in the Hundred Years' War. Held the title of Count of Rethel and was a notable figure in the military actions of the time. Engaged in significant conflicts, including those around the Battle of Poitiers. Actively participated in the defense of the French crown against English forces during a turbulent period in French history.

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Thomas Holland

English nobleman and 2nd Earl of Kent
Died
April 25th, 1397 627 years ago — None years old

Served as the 2nd Earl of Kent during the late 14th century. Participated in the Hundred Years' War. Held significant positions in the English court. Played a role in the political dynamics of England and was involved in the governance of Wales. Allied with notable figures of the period and contributed to military campaigns.

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William de Montagu

English commander during the Hundred Years' War
Born
June 25th, 1328 696 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1397 627 years ago — 68 years old

Served as the 2nd Earl of Salisbury and held a significant role during the early phases of the Hundred Years' War. Participated in key battles and was active in military campaigns against the French. Gained recognition for leadership in Scotland and France, and contributed to the English forces in various significant military operations.

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Philip of Artois

Count of Eu, French soldier
Born
1358 667 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1397 627 years ago — 39 years old

Held the title of Count of Eu and served as a military leader during the 14th century. Participated in various military campaigns, notably in the Hundred Years' War. Engaged in the defense of French territories against English forces. Involved in the politics of the time, aligning with key noble figures to influence military strategies.

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Catherine of Henneberg

German ruler, Countess of Henneberg
Died
July 15th, 1397 627 years ago — None years old

Ruler in the late 14th century, held the title of Countess of Henneberg. Played a significant role in regional politics. Married to Count Wilhelm IV of Henneberg, strengthening alliances within the area. Governed her territories during a period marked by feudal struggles and territorial disputes.

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