Historical Events from This Year 1476
Swiss Victory at the Battle of Grandson
The Old Swiss Confederacy defeated Charles the Bold at Grandson, marking a significant victory. This battle was part of the Burgundian Wars, where the Swiss aimed to resist Burgundian expansion. The Swiss employed effective tactics and took advantage of the terrain, leading to a surprising defeat for Charles and his forces, prompting a desperate retreat.
Continue ReadingBattle of Toro: Forces of Catholic Monarchs Clash
The Battle of Toro saw the forces of the Catholic Monarchs, King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile, engage the combined armies of King Afonso V of Portugal and his son Prince John. The confrontation took place near the town of Toro, in modern-day Spain, over territorial disputes and claims to the Castilian throne. Afonso and John aimed to establish a stronger claim following the death of King Henry IV of Castile, which had left a contentious succession crisis amidst a backdrop of alliances and rivalries.
Continue ReadingGiuliano della Rovere Appointed Bishop of Coutances
Giuliano della Rovere, a prominent figure in the Catholic Church, was appointed as the Bishop of Coutances in France. His elevation was part of his larger rise within the church hierarchy, influenced by his family connections and political maneuvers. Coutances, known for its rich ecclesiastical history, became one of the many dioceses under his influence during the late 15th century.
Continue ReadingVlad the Impaler's Third Ascendancy in Wallachia
Vlad the Impaler, aided by Stephen the Great and Stephen V Báthory, successfully defeated his adversary Basarab Laiota to reclaim the throne of Wallachia. This critical confrontation marked the third time Vlad assumed power in the region. The alliance between these notable leaders played a pivotal role in the defeat, showcasing a moment of unity against a common foe in the volatile political landscape of 15th-century Romania.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1476 (View all 9)
Pope Paul IV
Served as Pope from 1555 to 1559, implementing significant reforms within the Roman Catholic Church. Established the Roman Inquisition to combat heresy, reinforcing doctrinal authority. Contributed to the creation of the Index Librorum Prohibitorum, a list of prohibited books aimed at protecting the faith from corruption. Promoted the introduction of the Jewish ghetto in Rome, enforcing segregation of the Jewish population.
Continue ReadingAlfonso I d'Este
Born in 1476, served as Duke of Ferrara from 1505 until death in 1534. Known for extensive patronage of the arts, fostering cultural development in the Renaissance period. Commissioned works from renowned artists such as Titian and had an important role in incorporating humanism in court activities. Strengthened the political power of Ferrara through strategic marriages, including to Lucrezia Borgia, and managed to maintain Ferrara's autonomy amidst the changing political landscape of Italy.
Continue ReadingZhu Youyuan
Born in 1476, a prominent politician during the Ming Dynasty, held various official posts within the government. Played a significant role in the administration and policy-making processes of the era, contributing to the stability and governance of the empire. His tenure included oversight of taxation and infrastructure improvements, facilitating agricultural development. Engaged in diplomatic relations and internal affairs that helped define governmental operations during his time.
Continue ReadingKanō Motonobu
A prominent Japanese painter from the 16th century, he played a significant role in establishing the Kano school of painting. Active during the Muromachi period, he developed a style that combined traditional Japanese techniques with influences from Chinese painting. His works often featured landscapes, figures, and a variety of nature themes, embodying the aesthetics of the time. He served as an official painter to the shogunate and contributed to several important decorative projects within the imperial court. His legacy continues through the Kano school, which became a leading force in Japanese painting for centuries.
Continue ReadingLouise of Savoy
Born in 1476, served as the mother of Francis I of France. Acted as regent during Francis's captivity in 1525. Negotiated treaties and maintained stability in the kingdom. Played a crucial role in fostering the Renaissance in France, supporting the arts and education.
Continue ReadingGuy XVI
Born in 1476, held the title of Count of Laval and played a significant role in the governance of Bretagne. Participated in military affairs and was involved in the political landscape of France during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Strived to maintain the autonomy of Laval and its surrounding regions amidst the shifts of power following the union of Brittany with France. The Count fostered alliances and engaged in various diplomatic actions to uplift the status of Laval, ensuring its importance in the feudal system at the time. His legacy as a noble figure reflected the complexities of provincial leadership during a transformative period in French history.
Continue ReadingPeople Who Died in 1476 (View all 8)
John de Mowbray
A significant noble figure in 15th-century England, served as a prominent military leader during the Wars of the Roses. Played a pivotal role in the English court, engaging in several key battles that influenced the power dynamics of the time. Held the title of Duke of Norfolk from 1432 until death in 1476, overseeing considerable estates and political power. His lineage traced back to notable English nobility, establishing strong familial alliances through marriage.
Continue ReadingGeorge Neville
An English archbishop and academic during the 15th century. Served as the Archbishop of York from 1465 until death in 1476. Held significant positions within the church and demonstrated notable administrative skills. He was involved in the establishment of educational institutions and promoted scholarship during a period of transition in England.
Continue ReadingRegiomontanus
Born in 1436, Regiomontanus made significant contributions to mathematics and astronomy during the Renaissance. A pupil of Georg von Peuerbach, he helped establish the foundations for modern observational astronomy. His work included the creation of the first printed astronomical tables and advocating for the use of new mathematical techniques. Regiomontanus also served as a bishop and was influential in the establishment of the first astronomical observatory in Germany.
Continue ReadingJames of the Marches
A Franciscan friar, associated with the order's emphasis on preaching and community service. Worked extensively in the spiritual and social revitalization of various regions, notably in Italy. Engaged in missions to promote faith and morality among the populace. His teachings and written works contributed to the Franciscan legacy, influencing future generations of Franciscans and laity alike.
Continue ReadingGaleazzo Maria Sforza
Born in 1444, served as Duke of Milan from 1466 until 1494. Focused on consolidating power and expanding the territory of Milan. Promoted the arts and culture in the city, leading to significant developments during his reign. Managed conflicts with neighboring states, actively engaged in political maneuvering to strengthen Milan's position in Italy. His reign was marked by both cultural patronage and military campaigns.
Continue ReadingIsabel Neville
Born in 1451, Isabel Neville was the daughter of Richard Neville, the powerful Earl of Warwick during the Wars of the Roses. In 1469, married George Plantagenet, Duke of Clarence, a union that linked two prominent noble families. Isabel's marriage was politically significant, as it aimed to solidify alliances between the Yorkists and the Nevilles. Following the death of her husband in 1478, Isabel engaged in the political maneuverings of her time, navigating the complex dynamics of power and inheritance within the royal family. Isabel also gave birth to several children, including Edward, who ultimately became a significant figure in the tumultuous politics of England. Isabel's life was intertwined with the conflicts and rivalries of the 15th century, reflecting the challenges faced by noble women in a patriarchal society.
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