What Happened This Year 1513

Historical Events from This Year 1513 (View all 8)

Exploration & Discovery

Juan Ponce de León Discovers The Bahamas

March 27th, 1513 511 years ago

Juan Ponce de León reached the northern end of The Bahamas during his exploration for new lands and potential riches. This journey was part of his broader mission to find the fabled Fountain of Youth. As he explored, he made contact with the indigenous peoples of the region, who had lived there for thousands of years. This encounter marked a significant moment in early exploration as it opened the door to further European exploration and colonization in the Americas.

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Exploration & Discovery

Ponce de León Lands in Florida

April 2nd, 1513 511 years ago

Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León made landfall in Florida after spotting land on March 27. He landed somewhere between the modern city of St. Augustine and the St. Johns River mouth. Ponce de León was seeking new territories and had heard tales of a rejuvenating spring, believed to be in this region. The exploration was part of his broader voyage commissioned by the Spanish crown to expand their influence in the New World.

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Politics & Government

Edmund de la Pole Executed by Henry VIII

April 30th, 1513 511 years ago

Edmund de la Pole, the last Yorkist pretender to the English throne, was executed on the orders of King Henry VIII. After being captured, he was held in the Tower of London where he faced trial. His execution marked the end of significant Yorkist claims to the monarchy and consolidated Henry VIII's power.

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Military & Warfare

Swiss Victory at the Battle of Novara

June 6th, 1513 511 years ago

The Battle of Novara saw Swiss mercenaries decisively defeat French forces commanded by Louis II de la Trémoille. The victory effectively forced the French troops to retreat and abandon Milan, leading to the restoration of Duke Massimiliano Sforza. This battle played a pivotal role in the ongoing conflicts of the Italian Wars.

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Military & Warfare

Victory at Guinegate: Henry VIII Prevails

August 16th, 1513 511 years ago

In a decisive military engagement, King Henry VIII of England and his coalition forces achieved a significant victory against the French army at Guinegate. The battle showcased the effectiveness of English heavy cavalry and the coordination with Imperial allies. French forces, facing a morale-breaking defeat, were compelled to retreat, marking a turning point in Anglo-French relations. The skirmish was characterized by swift cavalry charges and tactical maneuvers that overwhelmed the French defenses, highlighting the prowess of the English military under Henry VIII's command.

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Military & Warfare

James IV of Scotland Falls at Flodden

September 9th, 1513 511 years ago

The Battle of Flodden saw King James IV of Scotland defeated by English forces led by Thomas Howard, 2nd Earl of Surrey. This battle took place in Northumberland, England, and was a pivotal moment in the conflict associated with the War of the League of Cambrai. As a result of the battle, King James IV lost his life, and many Scottish nobles fell, significantly impacting Scotland's political landscape and military engagements in the region.

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Born in 1513 (View all 8)

Louis, Duke of Montpensier

French nobleman and military leader
Born
June 10th, 1513 511 years ago
Died
1582 443 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1513, a prominent French nobleman who played a significant role in the Wars of Religion in France. Served as a military leader, commanding forces for the Crown and participating in various battles. Engaged in the political landscapes of his time, frequently at odds with other noble families. Supported the Catholic League during the conflicts, showcasing allegiance to the French monarchy and Catholicism. His efforts in warfare and governance defined his legacy during a tumultuous period in French history.

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Jacques Amyot

French author and translator of Plutarch
Born
October 30th, 1513 511 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1593 432 years ago — 79 years old

An influential figure in French literature, produced notable translations of ancient texts. Translated Plutarch's 'Lives', which significantly impacted Renaissance thought and literature. Served as the Bishop of Auxerre and contributed to the dissemination of classical works in France. His translations helped bridge the gap between Greek philosophy and French readers, fostering a greater understanding of humanism.

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Thomas Smith

English scholar and diplomat
Born
December 23rd, 1513 511 years ago
Died
August 12th, 1577 447 years ago — 63 years old

Engaged in extensive scholarship and served as a diplomat. Contributed significantly to the fields of political theory and history. Best known for his role as tutor to Edward VI, which established connections that influenced future diplomatic relationships. Instrumental in the development of official government documents and correspondence during a transformative period in England. Authored several important works that explored governance, economics, and society, providing insights that informed policies of the day.

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Catherine of Saxe-Lauenburg

Queen consort of Denmark and Norway
Born
1513 512 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 1535 489 years ago — 22 years old

Born into the noble family of Saxe-Lauenburg, served as queen consort of Denmark and Norway through marriage to King Christian II. Married in 1515, her reign coincided with significant political turmoil in Scandinavia, including the king's eventual deposition. Played a role in the dynastic strategies of the time, aiming to strengthen ties between regions. After the king's fall from power, she lived in exile, demonstrating resilience during the challenges faced. Catherine's legacy is intertwined with the complexities of royal marriages and political alliances in medieval Europe.

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George Cassander

Flemish theologian and author
Born
1513 512 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1566 459 years ago — 53 years old

A theologian and author from Flanders, contributed significantly to religious discourse during the Reformation. Advocated for moderation between Protestantism and Catholicism. His writings sought to provide a rational foundation for faith and addressed the controversies of his time. His most notable work, 'De Ratione Fidei', presented a defense of the Catholic faith against Protestant critiques and emphasized the role of reason in understanding divine truths. Engaged in theological debates with prominent reformers and remained committed to the doctrines of the Catholic Church throughout his life.

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George Wishart

Scottish minister and martyr
Born
1513 512 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1546 479 years ago — 33 years old

A prominent Scottish Reformed minister, played a crucial role in the Protestant Reformation in Scotland. Advocated for religious reforms and denounced papal authority. His teachings and sermons gained significant support, leading to conflicts with Catholic authorities. Captured in 1546, faced execution for heresy, becoming a martyr for the Reformation movement. The events surrounding his death inspired further resistance to Catholicism in Scotland.

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People Who Died in 1513 (View all 11)

John

King of Denmark during the Kalmar Union
Born
February 2nd, 1455 570 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1464 560 years ago — 9 years old

Became King of Denmark in 1481 and ruled until 1513. Oversaw the Kalmar Union, which united the crowns of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway under a single monarch. Struggled with internal conflicts in Sweden, which led to its eventual secession from the Union. Managed to strengthen Danish control over Norway during the reign while facing challenges from Swedish nobles. Encouraged trade and commerce in Denmark, contributing to the prosperity of the kingdom during his reign.

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King John of Denmark

King of Denmark and Norway
Born
1455 570 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1513 512 years ago — 58 years old

Ruled as King of Denmark from 1481 to 1513 and King of Norway from 1483 to 1513. Oversaw a union between Denmark and Norway. Participated in conflicts to solidify his reign and faced internal power struggles. Sought to strengthen royal authority and promote stability during his reign. The Kalmar Union, a series of treaties, was a significant aspect of his rule, aiming to unite the three kingdoms of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden under a single monarch.

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Pope Julius II

Renaissance Pope, architect of St. Peter's
Born
December 5th, 1443 581 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1513 512 years ago — 69 years old

One of the most notable popes of the Renaissance era, this figure served as the 216th pope from 1503 until 1513. A patron of the arts, he commissioned Michelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel ceiling and begin work on St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. His papacy is often referred to as the 'Warrior Pope' due to his military involvement in the Italian Wars, striving to reclaim territories for the Papal States. He also convened the Fifth Lateran Council to address various issues within the Church. His leadership marked a significant shift in the role of the papacy during the Renaissance, focusing on territorial expansion and cultural patronage.

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John de Vere

English commander and politician
Born
September 8th, 1442 582 years ago
Died
March 10th, 1513 512 years ago — 70 years old

Thirteenth Earl of Oxford served as an English commander and politician during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Held the title of Lord High Constable of England, a position of significant authority in the monarchy. Played a crucial role in the Wars of the Roses, aligning with the Yorkists and later supporting Henry VII. His contributions were pivotal in shaping the political landscape of England during a time of civil unrest.

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Şehzade Ahmet

Ottoman prince, son of Sultan Bayezid II
Born
1465 560 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1513 511 years ago — 48 years old

Born as a son of Sultan Bayezid II, achieved prominence within the Ottoman Empire during the late 15th century. Held the title of Şehzade, which indicated his status as a prince. Involved in political intrigues and succession struggles typical of the time. His life was marked by conflicts with his siblings over the Ottoman throne. Died in 1513 under circumstances that remain somewhat unclear, prompting speculation regarding the nature of the power struggles within the imperial family.

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William Graham

Scottish politician and 1st Earl of Montrose
Born
1464 561 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1513 511 years ago — 49 years old

An influential Scottish noble, held the title of 1st Earl of Montrose. Played a significant role in Scottish politics during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Actively participated in the political machinations of the time and was engaged in conflicts involving rival factions. His tenure included involvement in the struggles against the crown and the promotion of his family's interests in the region.

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