What Happened This Year 1499

Historical Events from This Year 1499 (View all 12)

Politics & Government

Louis XII Marries Anne of Brittany

January 8th, 1499 526 years ago

Louis XII of France married Anne of Brittany, solidifying dynastic ties and uniting two influential regions. This marriage was in line with a law established by Charles VIII, Anne's first husband, ensuring the continuity of the union between Brittany and France. The ceremony took place in Nantes, where a lavish celebration was held. The union was not only significant for royal alliances but also held great importance for the political landscape of the time. The marriage was part of a larger strategy to stabilize the kingdom and enhance French power in Europe.

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Exploration & Discovery

Alonso de Ojeda's Voyage to Venezuela Begins

May 18th, 1499 525 years ago

In May 1499, Alonso de Ojeda departed from Cádiz, Spain, embarking on an exploratory voyage to the coast of present-day Venezuela. Sponsored by Spanish monarchs, Ojeda sailed with a crew and intentions of claiming lands for Spain. This journey also followed the notable discoveries of Christopher Columbus, furthering European interest in the New World.

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Politics & Government

Catherine of Aragon Married by Proxy to Arthur

May 19th, 1499 525 years ago

Catherine of Aragon, at just 13 years old, was married by proxy to Arthur, Prince of Wales, who was 12 years old. This important arrangement took place in the presence of the Spanish royal court, facilitated by Catherine's parents, Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, as part of a political alliance with England. The ceremony symbolized the union of two powerful nations and was performed according to Spanish customs of the time.

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Exploration & Discovery

Amerigo Vespucci Discovers Amapá, Brazil

June 27th, 1499 525 years ago

Amerigo Vespucci, the renowned Italian explorer, sighted what is currently known as Amapá State in Brazil during his exploration of South America. This moment bore significance as it marked the continued European exploration of the New World, showcasing the burgeoning curiosity about the lands and peoples found there. Vespucci's expeditions aimed to chart unknown territories and understand the geographic and cultural distinctions of these new lands.

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Exploration & Discovery

Nicolau Coelho Returns from India with Vasco da Gama

July 10th, 1499 525 years ago

Nicolau Coelho, a Portuguese explorer, returned to Lisbon after accompanying Vasco da Gama on the historic voyage to India. His journey, part of the first successful trip to find a sea route to India, marked a significant expansion of Portuguese exploration. Coelho was vital in navigating the treacherous waters of the Indian Ocean and successfully trading with local rulers. His return heralded a new era for European powers in Asia, promising new trade opportunities and paving the way for future explorations.

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Military & Warfare

Swiss Forces Overwhelm Maximilian's Army

July 22nd, 1499 525 years ago

The Battle of Dornach saw Swiss forces decisively defeat the army of Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor, in a significant confrontation during the Swabian War. The conflict occurred near Dornach, Switzerland, where the Swiss, utilizing their superior tactics and knowledge of the terrain, engaged the Imperial forces. This victory boosted Swiss confidence and demonstrated their military prowess in resisting external domination.

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Born in 1499 (View all 18)

Sebastian Franck

German humanist and writer
Born
January 20th, 1499 526 years ago

A prominent figure in the German Renaissance, this individual contributed significantly to humanist literature. Active during the early 16th century, he published various works on religion, philosophy, and history. His writings often reflected a critical stance towards religious authorities and dogmas prevalent in that era. His major work, 'Weltchronik', presented a comprehensive history of the world from a humanist perspective. This figure's efforts in promoting educational reform and critical thinking laid foundational ideas for future humanist scholars.

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Katharina von Bora

Reformer and Wife of Martin Luther
Born
January 29th, 1499 526 years ago
Died
December 20th, 1552 472 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1499, a nun who fled her convent, later married Martin Luther in 1525. She managed the household and raised six children. Played a significant role in the Reformation, supporting her husband's work and promoting his ideas. Demonstrated financial acumen in managing the family's household and properties, contributing to their stability amid the tumultuous changes of the Reformation. Katharina became a prominent figure in the movement, exemplifying the role of women in the Reformation and offering a model of partnership in marriage. Died in 1552, leaving a lasting legacy in religious history.

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Thomas Platter

Swiss author and scholar of humanism
Born
February 10th, 1499 526 years ago
Died
1582 443 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1499, a significant figure in the Swiss humanist movement, contributed to literature and education in Europe. Platter's works encompassed a range of topics, including travelogues and educational texts. He served as a teacher and wrote extensively about his journeys across Europe, providing insights into the culture and geography of the time. His writings played a role in promoting the Renaissance ideals of classical learning and critical inquiry.

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Johann Carion

German astrologer and chronicler
Born
March 22nd, 1499 525 years ago
Died
1537 488 years ago — 38 years old

Born in 1499, this figure specialized in astrology and historical chronicling. Contributions to the field of astrology included the publication of astrological calendars and the interpretation of celestial events. His major work involved the compilation of various historical texts, documenting events and personalities of his time. This chronicler also engaged with the scientific discourse of the Renaissance, intertwining astronomy with astrology. Carion's works provided insights into the societal beliefs and practices regarding astrology in early modern Europe.

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Pope Pius IV

Pope and reformer of the Catholic Church
Born
March 31st, 1499 525 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1565 459 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the Pope from 1559 until 1565. Convened the final sessions of the Council of Trent, which was a significant ecumenical council that addressed church reform and clarified Catholic doctrine in response to the Protestant Reformation. Oversaw the implementation of reforms aimed at correcting abuses within the church. Strengthened the Roman Catholic Church's position throughout Europe during a time of significant religious upheaval.

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Johannes Brenz

Theologian and Protestant Reformer
Born
June 24th, 1499 525 years ago
Died
1570 455 years ago — 71 years old

A significant figure in the Protestant Reformation, played a major role in the establishment of Lutheran theology. Contributed to the spread of the Reformation in southern Germany, particularly in Württemberg. Acted as a close collaborator with Martin Luther, advocating for fundamental reforms in church doctrines and practices. Authored numerous works on theology, including confessions and catechisms, that shaped Protestant beliefs. Engaged in ecclesiastical politics and helped form church governance structures that persisted in the region.

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People Who Died in 1499

John Cicero

Elector of Brandenburg, 1499 death
Born
August 2nd, 1455 569 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1499 526 years ago — 43 years old

Served as Elector of Brandenburg from 1471 until death in 1499. Played a significant role in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire during his reign. Managed to maintain and expand the territory of the electorate through both diplomacy and military conflict. His efforts in consolidating power strengthened the Hohenzollern influence in the region. Facilitated cultural and economic development in Brandenburg.

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Galeotto I Pico

Duke of Mirandola
Born
August 3rd, 1442 582 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1499 525 years ago — 56 years old

Held the title of Duke of Mirandola and served in the late 15th century. Contributed to the cultural and political life of the region. Engaged in alliances to strengthen the duchy and fostered the arts and philosophy. Allied with various influential figures during his reign.

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Alesso Baldovinetti

Italian painter, notable for frescoes
Born
October 14th, 1425 599 years ago
Died
August 29th, 1499 525 years ago — 73 years old

Born in Florence, a prominent painter of the Early Renaissance. Developed a unique style characterized by clarity and delicate color palette. Contributions included altarpieces and frescoes, highlighting scenes from the Virgin Mary's life. Worked closely with the Florentine tradition and demonstrated influences from both Gothic and early Renaissance art. Renowned for achievements in religious art, particularly in the San Miniato al Monte church. Collaborated with other significant artists of the period, enhancing the visual culture of Florence.

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Marsilio Ficino

Italian philosopher and astrologer
Born
October 19th, 1433 591 years ago
Died
October 1st, 1499 525 years ago — 65 years old

An influential figure during the Renaissance, contributed significantly to the revival of Neoplatonism and integrated Platonic philosophy with Christian theology. Established the Platonic Academy in Florence, which became a center for philosophical thought. Authored numerous works, including translations and commentaries on Plato's dialogues. Coded astrology into philosophical discourse, linking cosmic movements to human affairs.

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Perkin Warbeck

Pretender to the English throne
Died
November 23rd, 1499 525 years ago — None years old

Born around 1474, an individual claimed to be Richard, Duke of York, who went on to challenge the legitimacy of the Tudor dynasty during the late 15th century. Engaged in multiple attempts to gain the throne of England, Warbeck garnered support from various foreign powers such as Scotland and France. A key figure in the Wars of the Roses, he landed on English shores and attempted to rally support against Henry VII. Eventually captured, he faced trial and was executed in 1499. His life is often referenced in discussions of Tudor history and the complexities surrounding the legitimacy of royal claims during that turbulent period.

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Edward Plantagenet

17th Earl of Warwick, House of York
Born
February 25th, 1475 550 years ago
Died
November 28th, 1499 525 years ago — 24 years old

Born in 1475, the 17th Earl of Warwick was the last male member of the House of York. Inherited the title from his father, who was executed in 1471. His claim to the English throne made him a significant figure during the Wars of the Roses. Captured by the Tudor regime and imprisoned in the Tower of London. Executed in 1499 under the orders of Henry VII, his death marked the end of direct Yorkist male lineage.

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