What Happened This Year 1481

Born in 1481

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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Sophie of Mecklenburg

Duchess of Mecklenburg and Saxony
Born
December 18th, 1481 543 years ago
Died
1503 522 years ago — 22 years old

Born in 1481, a duchess who married into the Saxon royal family. Contributed to alliances through marriage, linking Mecklenburg to the House of Wettin. Served as regent during her son's minority. Played a significant role in the political landscape of her time, especially concerning the management of ducal estates and the welfare of her subjects.

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Casimir

Margrave of Brandenburg-Bayreuth
Born
December 27th, 1481 543 years ago
Died
1527 498 years ago — 46 years old

Born on December 27, 1481, a Margrave governed the region of Brandenburg-Bayreuth in Germany. His reign was marked by efforts to enhance the territory's stability and governance. Casimir took part in the political intricacies of the time, navigating relationships with neighboring regions and ensuring the continuity of his lineage. The principality thrived under his leadership, leading to a notable legacy within the area.

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Antonio de Guevara

Spanish chronicler and moralist
Born
1481 544 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1545 479 years ago — 64 years old

Served as a chronicler and moralist during the Spanish Renaissance. Held the position of royal chronicler for the Spanish court. Authored several works including 'The Character of a Prince', which explored the virtues of leadership, and 'The Relox de Príncipes', which imparted moral lessons and guidance for rulers. Contributed to the development of Spanish literature and moral philosophy.

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