What Happened This Year 1514

Historical Events from This Year 1514

Military & Warfare

Launch of Henry Grace à Dieu Warship

June 13th, 1514 510 years ago

The Henry Grace à Dieu, a colossal warship at over 1,000 tons, was officially dedicated at Woolwich Dockyard in England. This significant ship, nicknamed the Great Harry, represented a major advancement in naval design and military capability, boasting superior firepower for its time. Built for King Henry VIII, the vessel symbolized England's growing naval power and ambition during the early 16th century.

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Military & Warfare

Decisive Victory at the Battle of Chaldiran

August 23rd, 1514 510 years ago

The Battle of Chaldiran was a significant military encounter between the Ottoman Empire, led by Sultan Selim I, and the Safavid dynasty, commanded by Shah Ismail I. Taking place in Eastern Anatolia, the battle showcased the superior artillery and military tactics of the Ottomans. Sultan Selim I aimed to expand his empire and assert dominance over Persia, while Shah Ismail I sought to protect his newly founded Safavid state. The decisive Ottoman victory resulted in the expansion of Ottoman territory and influence in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Lithuanian-Polish Victory at Orsha

September 8th, 1514 510 years ago

The Battle of Orsha marked a significant confrontation between the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and the Kingdom of Poland against the Russian army. Fought near the town of Orsha, this encounter involved strategic military maneuvers and showcased the effectiveness of Lithuanian cavalry. The battle resulted in a decisive victory for the Lithuanian-Polish alliance, exemplifying their military strength and coordination against a common foe during the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe.

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Born in 1514 (View all 11)

Hai Rui

Chinese politician and reformer
Born
January 23rd, 1514 511 years ago
Died
1587 438 years ago — 73 years old

Served as an official during the Ming Dynasty. Advocated for justice and fairness, emphasizing the importance of moral integrity in governance. Played a significant role in local administration and was noted for his uprightness and refusal to bend to corruption. His legacy included a reputation for honesty and dedication to the welfare of the people. His life inspired playwrights and historians, becoming a symbol of integrity in politics.

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Daniele Barbaro

Venetian diplomat and scholar
Born
February 8th, 1514 511 years ago
Died
1570 455 years ago — 56 years old

A Venetian churchman and diplomat during the Renaissance, contributions centered around culture and architecture. Served as a bishop in the Diocese of Padua and held significant roles in the Venetian government. Engaged in diplomatic missions, particularly to the papal court. Actively studied and promoted the works of ancient philosophers and theorists, contributing to the understanding of classical texts. Authored influential treatises on architecture and was involved in the planning of the Venetian state’s cultural strategies.

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Domenico Bollani

Bishop of Milan
Born
February 10th, 1514 511 years ago
Died
1579 446 years ago — 65 years old

Served as Bishop of Milan from 1561 to 1580. Played a significant role in the Counter-Reformation, implementing reforms within the diocese to align with the directives of the Council of Trent. Oversaw the administration of the diocese and worked to strengthen the Catholic Church's influence in the region. Notably focused on education and clergy training, contributing to the overall spiritual and moral development of the community.

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Tahmasp I

Iranian Shah and Safavid ruler
Born
February 22nd, 1514 511 years ago
Died
May 14th, 1576 448 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1514, ascended to the Safavid throne in 1524 at a young age and ruled until 1576. Oversaw a period of cultural and architectural development in Persia. Strengthened the Safavid dynasty's control over Persia, while opposing external threats from the Ottomans and Uzbeks. Promoted the arts, especially miniature painting and carpet weaving, which flourished under his reign. Fostered Shi'ism as the state religion, further defining the identity of Iran.

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Lorenzino de' Medici

Italian writer and political assassin
Born
March 23rd, 1514 510 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1548 477 years ago — 33 years old

An Italian writer and political assassin, contributed to the cultural landscape of Renaissance Florence. Authored various works, including a famous public tragedy, and engaged in political intrigue against Medici rule. Rejected the political systems in place, leading to involvement in plots to kill members of the ruling family. His life and works reflected the turbulent nature of his time, embodying the conflicts of loyalty and betrayal.

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John Cheke

English academic and Secretary of State
Born
June 16th, 1514 510 years ago
Died
September 13th, 1557 467 years ago — 43 years old

An academic and politician, played a significant role in the early education reforms in England during the reign of Edward VI. Served as the first Regius Professor of Greek at the University of Cambridge. Held the position of Secretary of State, advising the King on matters of policy and governance. Engaged in the promotion of humanist scholarship and the establishment of educational curricula in line with Renaissance ideals.

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People Who Died in 1514

William Smyth

Bishop and academic with religious writings
Born
1460 565 years ago
Died
January 2nd, 1514 511 years ago — 54 years old

Bishop of Lincoln and a scholar during the early 16th century. Contributed to religious studies and the academic community through various writings. Played a significant role in the church's educational reforms. Held notable positions within the church hierarchy while fostering intellectual growth among clergy and laity.

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Anne of Brittany

Queen consort of France
Born
January 25th, 1477 548 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1514 511 years ago — 36 years old

Served as queen consort of France through marriages to Charles VIII and Louis XII. Played a crucial role in the integration of Brittany into the French crown. Oversaw the growth of arts and architecture in France during the Renaissance. Actively supported the establishment of the 'Edict of Nantes' in 1598, providing tolerance for Protestants in France.

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György Dózsa

Peasant revolt leader in Transylvania
Born
1470 555 years ago
Died
July 20th, 1514 510 years ago — 44 years old

Led a major peasant revolt in Hungary against the feudal system in 1514. This uprising, primarily involving desperate peasants and laborers, aimed to address social injustices and economic oppression. Dózsa's leadership galvanized the movement and highlighted the grievances of the lower classes. Following initial successes, the revolt faced harsh repression from nobility and royal forces. Dózsa was captured and executed, symbolizing the struggle between the peasantry and the ruling classes of the time.

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William Elphinstone

Scottish bishop, founder of Aberdeen University
Born
1431 594 years ago
Died
October 25th, 1514 510 years ago — 83 years old

A Scottish bishop and academic played a pivotal role in the establishment of the University of Aberdeen in 1495. Elphinstone served as the bishop of Aberdeen and was instrumental in promoting education and clerical reform during his tenure. He was well-regarded for his efforts to improve the religious and educational landscape of Scotland in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Elphinstone's contributions included overseeing the university's initial charter and nurturing its development as a center of learning. His influence extended beyond education, contributing to the administrative and spiritual life of the diocese.

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Hartmann Schedel

German physician and chronicler
Born
February 13th, 1440 585 years ago
Died
1514 511 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1440, this physician contributed significantly to the field of medicine and historiography. Renowned for creating the Nuremberg Chronicle, one of the earliest printed books containing illustrations and historical accounts, it provided a comprehensive history of the world from a religious perspective. The work showcased advancements in printing technology, enhancing the dissemination of knowledge during the late 15th century. He studied at the University of Leipzig and worked in various cities including Nuremberg, where his scholarly pursuits flourished.

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