What Happened This Year 1488

Historical Events from This Year 1488

Exploration & Discovery

Bartolomeu Dias reaches Mossel Bay, South Africa

February 3rd, 1488 537 years ago

Bartolomeu Dias, the Portuguese explorer, made a significant maritime achievement by landing in Mossel Bay after successfully rounding the Cape of Good Hope. His journey was part of an expedition to find a sea route to India. This was a pivotal moment in the Age of Discovery, as Dias became the first known European to sail so far south along the African coast, opening the door for future explorations and trade routes to Asia.

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Military & Warfare

Rebel Lords Defeat King James III at Sauchieburn

June 11th, 1488 536 years ago

The Battle of Sauchieburn saw rebel lords clash with the forces of King James III of Scotland. Taking place in the fields of Stirlingshire, the conflict arose from widespread dissatisfaction with the king’s rule and his perceived favoritism towards certain nobles. As tensions escalated, rebel Lords, including the popular Earl of Argyll and the Duke of Albany, engaged the royal army. During the fierce fighting, King James III was killed. His death marked a significant shift in Scottish leadership and spurred a power struggle among nobles.

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Exploration & Discovery

Choe Bu's Remarkable Return to Korea

July 12th, 1488 536 years ago

After enduring months of challenges during a shipwrecked journey, Joseon Dynasty official Choe Bu returned to Korea from China. His travels included significant hardships across the seas, illustrating the tenacity and resilience necessary for navigating such perilous conditions. Upon his return, he likely provided valuable insights about foreign lands and trade opportunities, which would be beneficial for Joseon's diplomacy and economic endeavors.

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Religion & Philosophy

Bishop Konrad Bitz Prefaces Missale Aboense

August 17th, 1488 536 years ago

Konrad Bitz, as the Bishop of Turku, penned a preface for the Missale Aboense, which is recognized as the oldest known book in Finland. The Missale Aboense, a significant liturgical text, was essential for the Catholic Church in Finland, serving both as a guide for church rituals and as a testament to the evolution of written language in the region. This act marked a pivotal development in the history of Finnish literature.

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Politics & Government

Anne becomes Duchess of Brittany and key figure

September 9th, 1488 536 years ago

Anne of Brittany ascended as the sovereign Duchess of Brittany, positioning herself at the heart of the complex political landscape of late 15th-century France. The power struggle between Brittany and France significantly intensified as Anne's marriage alliances became a focal point for uniting the two regions. Her determination and strategic maneuvers not only influenced the balance of power but also played a crucial role in shaping Brittany's future, setting the stage for its eventual integration into the French kingdom. This pivotal moment reflected the broader themes of territorial consolidation and dynastic politics in France.

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Born in 1488 (View all 18)

Helius Eobanus Hessus

German poet and writer
Born
January 6th, 1488 537 years ago
Died
October 5th, 1540 484 years ago — 52 years old

Helius Eobanus Hessus was a significant figure in Renaissance literature in Germany. Born in 1488, he gained prominence as a poet, particularly in lyric poetry and epigrammatic form. Hessus studied at the University of Erfurt, where he was influenced by classical literature and humanist ideals. His most notable works include 'De raptu Proserpinae', an epic poem reflecting on mythological themes and human experience. He was a member of the literary circle associated with the influential humanist and poet Ulrich von Hutten. His contributions to German poetry helped to establish a foundation for subsequent literary movements in the region. Hessus's work is characterized by its engagement with both classical and contemporary themes, blending myth with an emerging sense of individualism typical of the Renaissance.

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Sebastian Münster

German cartographer and cosmographer
Born
January 20th, 1488 537 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1552 472 years ago — 64 years old

A prominent 16th-century German scholar, played a crucial role in the fields of cartography and cosmography. Published the influential work 'Cosmographia' in 1544, which served as one of the first comprehensive descriptions of the world. Contributed significantly to mapping by producing multiple maps and atlases, including the 'Karte von Deutschland' which illustrated German territories. Held a position as a professor at the University of Basel, and engaged in various scholarly activities that advanced geographic knowledge during the Renaissance period.

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Johannes Magnus

Swedish archbishop and theologian
Born
March 19th, 1488 536 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1544 480 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1488, served as an archbishop in Sweden during the Reformation. Wrote influential theological works, including a history of Sweden, which emphasized the importance of the Swedish church. Opposed Lutheran reforms, advocating for Catholic traditions and unity within the church. His writings were pivotal in the theological debates of his time, and his efforts contributed to the preservation of Catholic practices in Sweden during a period of significant religious change.

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Ulrich von Hutten

German religious reformer and writer
Born
April 21st, 1488 536 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1523 501 years ago — 35 years old

Born in 1488, this individual became an influential figure in the German religious reform movement. A critic of the Catholic Church, wrote extensively on issues of faith and authority. Associated with the early Protestant Reformation, he corresponded with Martin Luther and supported the reformist cause. His works emphasized the importance of individual belief and the authority of Scripture over tradition. The dramatic social and political landscape of the era saw this figure advocate for reform through pamphlets and public speeches.

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Sidonie of Bavaria

Noblewoman of Bavaria, Duchess of Saxe-Lauenburg
Born
May 1st, 1488 536 years ago
Died
1505 520 years ago — 17 years old

Born as the eldest daughter of Duke Albrecht IV of Bavaria-Munich, Sidonie became Duchess of Saxe-Lauenburg through marriage. The union occurred in 1502 with Magnus I, strengthening political ties between Bavarian and northern German territories. Sidonie's life was marked by her role in the nobility, navigating the complexities of dynastic politics during the Late Middle Ages.

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John III of the Palatinate

Archbishop of Regensburg
Born
May 7th, 1488 536 years ago
Died
1538 487 years ago — 50 years old

Served as Archbishop of Regensburg during the early 16th century. Played a significant role in the religious and political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire. Participated in the Diet of Augsburg in 1530, which addressed issues of Protestantism and Catholicism. Promoted education and the establishment of schools in the diocese. Contributed to the Catholic Church's resilience during the Reformation.

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People Who Died in 1488

Girolamo Riario

Italian Noble and Military Leader
Born
1443 582 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1488 536 years ago — 45 years old

Held titles as Lord of Imola and Forli during the late 15th century. Served as a military commander and was involved in various political alliances and conflicts of the era. Played a significant role in the power struggles of the Italian city-states. Controlled considerable territories and was a prominent figure in the political landscape of Renaissance Italy.

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James III of Scotland

King of Scotland, patron of the arts
Born
July 10th, 1451 573 years ago
Died
June 11th, 1488 536 years ago — 36 years old

Ascended the throne in 1460 and ruled until 1488. Focused on strengthening royal authority and enhancing cultural life in Scotland. Promoted arts and learning, leading to the construction of significant architectural works. Engaged in conflicts with nobility, culminating in the Battle of Sauchieburn, which resulted in his death. His reign is marked by efforts to centralize power and a patronage of luxury and culture.

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Edward Woodville

Lord Scales at Battle of St. Aubin
Died
July 28th, 1488 536 years ago — None years old

Served as a military leader during the late 15th century. Played a significant role in the Battle of St. Aubin-du-Cormier in 1488, which was part of the Breton War of Succession. His efforts in the battle reflected the ongoing conflict in Brittany, a region of France, at that time. Held the title of Lord Scales, which indicated a position of nobility and military leadership.

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Shekha of Amarsar

Rajput chieftain and warrior leader
Born
September 24th, 1433 591 years ago
Died
1488 537 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1433, a prominent Rajput chieftain who led significant military campaigns in Rajasthan. Established a stronghold in the region and became a notable figure among the Rajput clans. Played a crucial role in the regional politics of the time, engaging in various conflicts to assert dominance and protect territories.

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