What Happened This Year 1481

Historical Events from This Year 1481

Natural Disasters

Devastating Earthquake Hits Island of Rhodes

May 3rd, 1481 543 years ago

A catastrophic earthquake struck the island of Rhodes, leading to an estimated 30,000 casualties and widespread destruction. This seismic event was one of a trio of earthquakes that ravaged the region, causing significant damage to towns and infrastructure. The tremors were felt across the island, with many buildings collapsing and loss of life occurring both in the immediate epicenter and surrounding areas. The disaster highlighted the geological instability of the region and the vulnerability of its inhabitants.

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Military & Warfare

David of Burgundy Defends Westbroek

December 26th, 1481 543 years ago

An army led by David of Burgundy, the Bishop of Utrecht, engaged a rioting mob from Utrecht seeking revenge for the massacre of Westbroek's inhabitants. The confrontation was a significant moment of local conflict that showcased the volatile relationship between the Church and the populace in the region. The Bishop's forces, numbering between 4,000 and 5,000, aimed to assert control and prevent further violence while the armed mob sought retribution for perceived injustices.

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Born in 1481 (View all 13)

Ashikaga Yoshizumi

Japanese shōgun during the Muromachi period
Born
January 15th, 1481 544 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1511 513 years ago — 30 years old

Ascended to the position of shōgun in 1508 during Japan's Muromachi period. Governed amid a time of significant political complexity and fragmentation. His tenure included efforts to navigate the conflicts among regional lords and the growing power struggles within the shōgunate. The period characterized by internal discord and power shifts saw a limited ability to establish stability. Returned to the position of shōgun after the assassination of his predecessor but faced challenges from powerful clan leaders. His leadership ended in 1511 with his death, after which the shōgunate continued to experience turmoil and change.

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Franz von Sickingen

German knight and military leader
Born
March 2nd, 1481 544 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1523 501 years ago — 42 years old

Born in 1481, a prominent figure of the German knighthood and military strategy. Played a significant role in the early stages of the Reformation. Engaged in various military campaigns, aligning with Protestant princes against the Catholic Church. His support for Martin Luther's reforms marked a pivotal time in German history. In 1522, led a series of military operations against the forces of the Holy Roman Empire. Died in 1523 as a result of injuries sustained during the siege of Landstuhl.

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Juana de la Cruz Vázquez Gutiérrez

Spanish abbess and Franciscan leader
Born
May 3rd, 1481 543 years ago
Died
1534 491 years ago — 53 years old

An abbess of the Franciscan Third Order Regular, dedicated life to religious service and reform. Established a convent and contributed to spiritual education and community life. Played a significant role in promoting the values of the Franciscan order, emphasizing simplicity and dedication to God. Influenced the development of the Third Order and was recognized for leadership within the religious community.

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Christian II of Denmark

King of Denmark and Norway, 1523-1531
Born
July 1st, 1481 543 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1559 466 years ago — 77 years old

Ruled Denmark and Norway during a tumultuous period characterized by political unrest and conflict. Initiated several reforms aimed at strengthening royal authority and expanding trade. Faced opposition from the nobility and experienced a notable conflict known as the Count's Feud. Lost the throne to Frederick I in 1523 but briefly regained power in Norway. Lost his final political struggle, leading to a long exile in Sweden. Died in captivity, with his legacy connected to the struggles between the monarchy and nobility.

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Jorge de Lencastre

Duke of Coimbra, Portuguese noble
Born
August 21st, 1481 543 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1550 474 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1481, served as Duke of Coimbra, the title he held as a member of the Portuguese royal family. Appointed governor of the province of India, contributing to the establishment of Portuguese colonial rule in the region. Involved in various military campaigns that aimed to expand Portuguese influence. His lineage connected him to important historical figures, positioning him in the network of nobility that shaped the political landscape of 16th century Portugal.

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Francisco de Sá de Miranda

Portuguese poet and playwright
Born
August 28th, 1481 543 years ago
Died
May 17th, 1558 466 years ago — 76 years old

A notable figure in the Portuguese Renaissance, contributed significantly to the revival of classical forms in Portuguese literature. His works combined traditional themes with a new Italian influence. De Sá de Miranda's poetry explored themes of love and nature, often employing sonnets and other formal verse. He played a key role in introducing the Petrarchan sonnet to Portugal. While living in Italy, he became acquainted with influential literary figures, further shaping his poetic style. His poetry inspired future generations of Portuguese writers.

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People Who Died in 1481 (View all 7)

Ahmed Khan bin Küchük

Mongolian ruler and khan
Died
January 6th, 1481 544 years ago — None years old

Ahmed Khan bin Küchük ascended to power as a khan in the Mongolian Empire. His reign is marked by efforts to consolidate power and maintain control over the territories under his jurisdiction. During this period, he faced various internal and external challenges. Significantly, he dealt with rival factions within the empire that sought to undermine his authority. His leadership style focused on strategic alliances and military campaigns to secure the stability of the khanate. His rule ended with his death in 1481, which marked a shift in the political landscape of the Mongolian region.

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Mehmed the Conqueror

Ottoman sultan and conqueror of Constantinople
Born
March 30th, 1432 592 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1481 543 years ago — 49 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1444 and again in 1451 after a brief deposition. Captured Constantinople in 1453, marking the end of the Byzantine Empire. Consolidated power and expanded the empire's territory in the Balkans and the Aegean. Implemented significant administrative reforms and promoted arts and architecture, leading to a flourishing of culture during his reign. The construction of the Topkapi Palace and the Fatih Mosque were notable achievements of the period. Died in 1481 and left a lasting legacy in Ottoman history.

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Thomas de Littleton

English judge and legal author
Died
August 23rd, 1481 543 years ago — None years old

A prominent figure in English legal history, contributed significantly to the development of common law. Authored 'Tenures', a comprehensive treatise on land law, which served as a crucial legal text for centuries. Engaged in various judicial roles, shaping legal practices during the late medieval period. Held the position of a judge, influencing decisions that affected legal precedents.

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Afonso V

King of Portugal during the Age of Discovery
Born
1432 593 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1481 543 years ago — 49 years old

Afonso V ascended to the throne of Portugal at a young age and ruled from 1438 until 1481. His reign coincided with the Age of Discovery, and he played a significant role in expanding Portuguese territories in Africa. Afonso V was instrumental in military campaigns, including the conquest of Ceuta in 1415 and further incursions into Morocco. His administration also involved the establishment of diplomatic ties and trade agreements with various countries. Afonso's policies helped to reinforce Portugal's status as a maritime power. He was also a patron of the arts and contributed to the cultural development of the period.

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Anne de Mowbray

8th Countess of Norfolk
Born
December 10th, 1472 552 years ago
Died
November 19th, 1481 543 years ago — 8 years old

Born in 1472, held the title of Countess of Norfolk. Became the wife of Richard de la Pole in 1480, thus linking the powerful de la Pole family with the Mowbray lineage. The marriage was a political alliance aimed at solidifying influence. Died in 1510, shortly after her husband, leaving a legacy intertwined with the history of the English nobility.

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Afonso V of Portugal

King of Portugal and the Algarves
Born
January 15th, 1432 593 years ago
Died
1481 544 years ago — 49 years old

Reigned as King of Portugal from 1438 to 1481, focusing on military campaigns and territorial expansion. Known for efforts to extend Portuguese influence in North Africa and embark on expeditions along the West African coast. His reign included the capture of the Moroccan city of Ksar al-Kabir. Promoted exploration and trade, contributing to the Age of Discovery. Struggled with internal conflicts and paternal influence that affected governance. Left a legacy through military engagements and support for maritime exploration.

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