Historical Events from This Year 1520 (View all 16)
Sten Sture the Younger is mortally wounded
Sten Sture the Younger, serving as the Regent of Sweden, suffered mortal wounds during the Battle of Bogesund. This pivotal battle was part of Sweden’s struggle against Danish rule under King Christian II. As the leaders of opposing forces clashed, Sture's injuries became the turning point that influenced the power dynamics of the region. He died shortly after being wounded, leading to significant changes within the Swedish leadership and further conflict with Denmark.
Continue ReadingBeginning of the Comuneros Revolt in Spain
The Comuneros Revolt began in Spain, sparked by dissatisfaction with King Charles V's rule. Local citizens in Castile organized protests against high taxes and foreign influence, mainly favoring the interests of Flemish merchants over Spanish citizens. The movement evolved into a broader demand for local governance and rights by the Comuneros, led by notable figures such as Juan de Padilla and others. The revolt marked a significant civil uprising against monarchical power.
Continue ReadingCortés Defeats Narváez in Power Struggle
Hernán Cortés successfully defeated Pánfilo de Narváez and his forces in a pivotal encounter that solidified his control over Mexico. De Narváez was sent by the Spanish crown to bring Cortés to justice for his insubordination during the conquest of the Aztec Empire. The confrontation took place near present-day Veracruz, where Cortés's strategic planning and local alliances secured his victory, allowing him to consolidate power in the region.
Continue ReadingMassacre at the Festival of Tóxcatl
During the Festival of Tóxcatl, Spanish forces, led by Hernán Cortés, attacked the Aztec people in Tenochtitlan. This brutal incident involved the surprise slaughter of unarmed Aztec participants, angering the local populace. The festival was a significant event in the Aztec calendar, celebrating the deity Tezcatlipoca. The massacre contributed directly to the collapse of relations between the Spanish and the Aztecs, fueling further hostilities.
Continue ReadingPope Leo X's Excommunication Threat to Luther
Pope Leo X issued the papal bull Exsurge Domine, condemning Martin Luther's teachings and threatening him with excommunication. Luther's reforms challenged the Catholic Church, particularly his 95 Theses, which called for a reformation of church practices. The papal bull applauded the church's authority and denounced Luther's views as heretical, emphasizing the need for doctrinal unity. The tension between Luther and the Catholic Church escalated, framing the religious disputes of the Reformation.
Continue ReadingCortés and Conquistadors Escape Tenochtitlan
Hernán Cortés and his men fought their way out of Tenochtitlan after a surprise attack from Aztec forces during the night. Rising tensions had escalated into violence, forcing the Spaniards to retreat under cover of darkness. The escape was chaotic, with heavy casualties and disputes among the conquistadors. Despite the turmoil, this daring maneuver eventually allowed Cortés to regroup his forces and plan a counter-offensive against the Aztec Empire.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1520 (View all 17)
William More
Served during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, engaging in courtly affairs and land management. Played a significant role in local governance and landownership. More was involved in various legal and political matters throughout his life, facilitating connections among the nobility and contributing to the structure of the court.
Continue ReadingMoses Isserles
A significant rabbinical figure, contributed extensively to Jewish law and practice. Originated from Cracow, Poland, interacted with various Jewish communities across Europe. His most recognized work, the 'Mapah', provided an Ashkenazi perspective on the 'Shulchan Aruch' written by Joseph Caro. Addressed different customs and laws relevant to Ashkenazi Jews, solidifying communal standards and practices.
Continue ReadingMatthias Flacius
Originating from Croatia, a theologian and reformer contributed significantly to the Lutheran reformation in the 16th century. Studied under influential reformers and engaged in theological debate against Roman Catholic doctrines. Established the importance of scripture and the teaching of original sin. Flacius's works included the 'Ecclesiastica Historia' which chronicled the history of the church from its inception to the Reformation. His editorial work on the 'Confessio Augustana' emphasized Lutheran principles and influenced the direction of Protestant theology.
Continue ReadingSigismund II
A member of the Jagiellonian dynasty, ascended to the Polish throne in 1548 and ruled until 1572. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and a focus on internal consolidation. His rule faced significant challenges including military conflicts and issues of succession. He also presided over notable events in the cultural and political arenas of Poland.
Continue ReadingMadeleine of Valois
Born in 1520, she became Queen Consort of Scotland through marriage to King James V. The union took place in 1537, and she served as queen until her death in 1540. Her brief reign saw her in a supportive role in the Scottish court. She had a significant connection to the Scottish crown and was part of the Valois dynasty, which played a crucial role in the politics of France and Scotland during the 16th century. Despite her short life, her marriage helped strengthen ties between France and Scotland.
Continue ReadingAlessandro Farnese
Served as a notable cardinal and diplomat during the late Renaissance. Held significant positions within the Catholic Church, including the role of Cardinal of Santa Maria in Portico. Played a crucial role in the politics of the Papal States and in the negotiations with Spain. Engaged in various diplomatic missions that influenced the religious and political landscape of the time.
Continue ReadingPeople Who Died in 1520 (View all 9)
Alfonsina de' Medici
Served as regent for Florence during her husband's absence. Played a significant role in the administration and diplomatic relations of the city. Managed various political issues while maintaining stability. Contributed to the promotion of arts and culture in Florence, aligning with the city's Renaissance ideals.
Continue ReadingRaphael
An influential figure of the High Renaissance, this artist was praised for combining grace and clarity in visual composition. The individual excelled in painting and architecture, contributing significantly to the development of Renaissance art. Major works include the frescoes in the Stanze di Raffaello in the Vatican, particularly 'The School of Athens'. The artist's style greatly influenced subsequent generations of painters, marking a significant evolution in artistic techniques and expression.
Continue ReadingHosokawa Sumimoto
Served as a powerful military leader during the Muromachi period in Japan. Played a significant role in the Onin War, which marked a critical point in Japanese history by leading to the rise of feudalism. Held positions of authority in the Ashikaga shogunate and was involved in various military campaigns throughout his career. His strategies and leadership notably shaped the political landscape of the time. Passed away in 1520.
Continue ReadingMoctezuma II
Ruled the Aztec Empire from 1502 until 1520. Oversaw a large and complex society, marked by significant cultural and economic achievements. Faced the arrival of Spanish forces led by Hernán Cortés in 1519, leading to the eventual downfall of the Aztec Empire. Encountered various challenges as the empire engaged in military conflicts and diplomacy with neighboring states. Died in 1520 amidst the Spanish conquest, under circumstances that remain debated by historians, marking a pivotal moment in Mesoamerican history.
Continue ReadingSelim I
Ascended to the throne in 1512, ruling the Ottoman Empire until 1520. Expanded the empire significantly, bringing Egypt and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina under Ottoman control. Instituted various administrative reforms that strengthened central authority. His reign marked the beginning of the Ottoman Empire's golden age of territorial expansion.
Continue ReadingBernardo Dovizi
Born in 1470, held the title of Cardinal and served as a prominent diplomat for the Catholic Church. Played a significant role in the politics of the papacy during the Renaissance. Engaged in various diplomatic missions and served as papal legate, representing the interests of the Church in political matters. Contributed to the ecclesiastical landscape of Italy during a pivotal period of change.
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