What Happened This Year 1521

People Who Died in 1521

Zhengde

Chinese Emperor, Zhengde Era
Born
1491 534 years ago
Died
April 20th, 1521 503 years ago — 30 years old

Ruled as the Emperor of China from 1505 until 1521 during the Ming dynasty. His reign was marked by the luxurious lifestyle of the imperial court. Emphasis was placed on arts and culture, leading to significant developments in these areas. During his rule, diplomatic relations were established with foreign countries, and there were efforts to consolidate power and manage provincial governance. He implemented policies that reflected both the interests of the nobility and the common people, although some of these policies faced resistance.

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Ferdinand Magellan

Explorer who led the first circumnavigation
Born
1480 545 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1521 503 years ago — 41 years old

Conducted the first successful expedition to circumnavigate the globe. Set sail from Spain in 1519 with a fleet of five ships, seeking a westward route to the Spice Islands. Discovered the strait that now bears his name, the Strait of Magellan, at the southern tip of South America. Magellan's voyage was ultimately completed by the remaining crew members, as he was killed in the Philippines in 1521.

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Sebastian Brant

German author of 'Ship of Fools'
Born
1457 568 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1521 503 years ago — 64 years old

A significant figure in early German literature, contributed to the development of the satirical genre. Authored 'Das Narrenschiff' (The Ship of Fools), which highlighted the folly and vices of society through allegorical tales. The work gained widespread popularity and was translated into several languages, reflecting the social and moral issues of the time. Brant's writings combined elements of classical literature with contemporary observations, influencing both readers and writers in the Renaissance period.

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Tamás Bakócz

Hungarian Cardinal and diplomat
Born
1442 583 years ago
Died
June 15th, 1521 503 years ago — 79 years old

Served as a leading figure in the Catholic Church during the early 16th century. Held the position of Cardinal and was influential in various ecclesiastical and political matters. Played a key role in diplomacy between Hungary and the Papacy. Actively participated in the political landscape of Hungary, particularly during a time of conflict with the Ottoman Empire.

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Leonardo Loredan

Italian ruler during the Renaissance
Born
November 16th, 1436 588 years ago
Died
June 22nd, 1521 503 years ago — 84 years old

Served as the Doge of Venice from 1501 to 1521. Loredan governed during a significant period in Venetian history, guiding the republic through various political challenges. His tenure witnessed the continuation of the Venetian Wars and efforts to strengthen naval power. Loredan was also a patron of the arts and played a role in maintaining Venice's status as a cultural center during the Renaissance.

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Josquin des Prez

Flemish composer of Renaissance music
Born
1450 575 years ago
Died
August 27th, 1521 503 years ago — 71 years old

A composer during the Renaissance period, contributions to music encompassed vocal and instrumental compositions. Utilized innovative techniques such as imitation and counterpoint, influencing subsequent generations of composers. Worked predominantly in France and Italy, where he gained recognition for skillful polyphony. Notable works include masses, motets, and chansons, which showcased mastery of musical forms and expression. His compositions were widely disseminated, solidifying a foundational place in Western music history.

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Margaret of Lorraine

Duchess of Alençon and nun
Born
1463 562 years ago
Died
November 2nd, 1521 503 years ago — 58 years old

As Duchess of Alençon, held significant influence in French nobility during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Played a crucial role in religious reform through her devout life as a nun. Resided in the convent of Notre-Dame de l'Annonciation, where she became known for her spiritual guidance and piety. Established a reputation for dedication to religious community and charitable acts.

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Leo X

Pope of the Catholic Church, Medici
Born
1475 550 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1521 503 years ago — 46 years old

Elected as pope in 1513, this leader oversaw a period of significant artistic and cultural flourishing in the Catholic Church. A member of the Medici family, focused on patronage of the arts, contributing to the Renaissance. Strengthened papal authority and engaged in political alliances. Played a key role during a time of religious upheaval, particularly influenced by the Protestant Reformation. Died in 1521.

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Manuel I of Portugal

King of Portugal during the Age of Discovery
Born
May 31st, 1469 555 years ago
Died
December 13th, 1521 503 years ago — 52 years old

Ruled as King of Portugal from 1495 to 1521. Oversaw a period of maritime exploration and expansion during the Age of Discovery. Implemented policies that supported the establishment of trade routes and colonies. Consolidated the Portuguese Empire, significantly increasing its global reach. Contributed to the cultural and economic development of Portugal through support of art and architecture.

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