What Happened This Year 1472

Historical Events from This Year 1472

Politics & Government

Norway Pawns Orkney and Shetland to Scotland

February 20th, 1472 553 years ago

In 1472, Norway pawned the Orkney and Shetland Islands to Scotland as part of a dowry agreement for Margaret of Denmark. This arrangement was necessitated by financial constraints after a failed military venture in the region. The islands, historically significant in Norse culture, became integral to Scotland's territorial expansion and were crucial for maritime control in the North Sea. The formal agreement marked a pivotal shift in the sovereignty of these islands.

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Born in 1472 (View all 10)

Guidobaldo da Montefeltro

Italian military captain and Duke
Born
January 17th, 1472 553 years ago
Died
1508 517 years ago — 36 years old

Born in 1472, served as a captain and ruler in the Italian city-state of Urbino. Leadership marked by military engagements and governance. Instrumental in the cultural development of Urbino during the Renaissance period. Established a court that attracted artists and intellectuals, contributing to the flourishing of the region.

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Piero the Unfortunate

Italian ruler with brief reign
Born
February 15th, 1472 553 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1503 521 years ago — 31 years old

Piero ruled as the Duke of Urbino during the late 15th century. His leadership was marked by political challenges and conflicts within Italy, particularly during the tumultuous period of the Italian Wars. Piero's reign was characterized by his inability to maintain the stability of his territories, leading to his eventual exile. His rule ended when he was ousted in favor of stronger rulers, exemplifying the volatile nature of Italian politics at the time. Piero's legacy remains tied to the decline of his rule and the subsequent shifts in power among the Italian city-states.

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Fra Bartolomeo

Italian painter of the Renaissance
Born
March 28th, 1472 552 years ago
Died
October 31st, 1517 507 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent painter during the Italian Renaissance, contributed significantly to religious art. Worked in Florence, developing a unique style characterized by the use of vibrant colors and strong composition. Became a member of the Dominicans, which influenced his subject matter, focusing mainly on biblical themes. His works often displayed a mastery of human anatomy and emotion.

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Bianca Maria Sforza

Holy Roman Empress
Born
April 5th, 1472 552 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1510 514 years ago — 38 years old

Born into the Sforza family, she became Holy Roman Empress through marriage to Maximilian I. This union connected powerful dynasties in Europe. Her life spanned the Renaissance, a time of cultural and political change. She experienced significant events including court intrigues and familial alliances. Despite challenges in her marriage and health, she contributed to the Habsburg legacy through her offspring, cementing ties between influential families in Europe.

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Nikolaus von Schönberg

Catholic Cardinal and diplomat
Born
August 11th, 1472 552 years ago
Died
1537 488 years ago — 65 years old

Ordained as a priest, served as the Bishop of Seckau and then as the Cardinal of Santa Maria in Trastevere. Acted as a diplomat for the Papal States, significantly in dealings with the Holy Roman Emperor. Played a considerable role in the political and religious matters of his time, engaging with various European powers.

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Wang Yangming

Neo-Confucian scholar and philosopher
Born
October 31st, 1472 552 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1529 496 years ago — 56 years old

A prominent Chinese philosopher, contributed significantly to Neo-Confucianism during the Ming Dynasty. Developed the concept of the unity of knowledge and action, emphasizing that true knowledge comes from moral practice. Gained recognition for the interpretation of Confucian texts and the establishment of a philosophical school of thought that prioritized personal introspection and moral self-cultivation. His teachings influenced not only Chinese philosophy but also impacted Japanese and Korean thought. His legacy continued through his followers and is evident in various educational practices.

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People Who Died in 1472 (View all 9)

Janus Pannonius

Hungarian bishop and poet
Born
August 29th, 1434 590 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1472 552 years ago — 37 years old

A prominent figure in the 15th century, served as the Bishop of Pécs. Contributed significantly to Hungarian literature and humanism. Wrote notable works including poems and elegies that reflect humanist themes. His writings are considered among the earliest examples of Hungarian poetry, blending classical influences with local traditions.

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Amadeus IX

Duke of Savoy and regent
Born
February 1st, 1435 590 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1472 552 years ago — 37 years old

Born in 1435, served as Duke of Savoy from 1465 until death in 1472. Played a crucial role in the political landscape of Northern Italy during the late 15th century. Focused on diplomatic relations, enhancing the influence of the House of Savoy. Advocated for peace between rival factions and sought to strengthen alliances.

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Leon Battista Alberti

Italian architect and Renaissance thinker
Born
February 14th, 1404 621 years ago
Died
April 25th, 1472 552 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1404, played a significant role in the development of Renaissance architecture and humanist thought. Worked on multiple architectural projects, including the facade of Santa Maria Novella in Florence. Authored influential texts, notably the theoretical treatise "De re aedificatoria," which set forth principles of architecture and design. Contributed to the fields of painting and literature through writings and creative works.

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Jacquetta of Luxembourg

Noblewoman and Lady of the Tudor Era
Born
1416 609 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1472 552 years ago — 56 years old

Born to Pierre de Luxembourg, played a significant role in the English court as the wife of John Woodville. Married in 1452, became the mother of Elizabeth Woodville, who married King Edward IV. Her lineage connected the Luxembourgs with English nobility. Actively participated in political affairs during the Wars of the Roses, supporting her daughter's rise to the throne as Queen Consort. Negotiated alliances and managed estates, contributing to the power of the Woodville family during a tumultuous period in English history.

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Nezahualcoyotl

Acolhuan philosopher and ruler
Born
April 28th, 1402 622 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1472 552 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent philosopher, warrior, poet, and ruler of the Acolhua, significantly contributed to the cultural and political landscape of Texcoco during the early 15th century. Leadership included the construction of a grand palace and the establishment of laws that promoted arts and sciences. Also recognized for poetic works that explored themes of existence and nature, enhancing the literary heritage of Mesoamerica. As a warrior, engaged in military campaigns against neighboring city-states, notably the Mexica.

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Charles of Artois

French nobleman and Count of Artois
Born
1394 631 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1472 552 years ago — 78 years old

A nobleman from the House of Artois held the title of Count of Artois during the 15th century. He engaged in military campaigns during the Hundred Years' War, contributing to the French efforts against the English. Additionally, he was involved in the political machinations of the French court, navigating alliances and rivalries among the nobility. His lineage traced back to important French royalty, influencing his role in the socio-political landscape of France. His death in 1472 marked the end of his contributions to the noble court.

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