What Happened This Year 1524

Historical Events from This Year 1524

Exploration & Discovery

Giovanni da Verrazzano's Westward Voyage Begins

January 17th, 1524 501 years ago

Giovanni da Verrazzano embarked from Madeira seeking a westward sea route to the Pacific Ocean. His journey was motivated by the desire to explore trade opportunities and find a more efficient passage for the burgeoning European market. The expedition aimed to enhance European knowledge of the Americas and explore potential territories for later colonial claims. Setting sail with hopes of discovery, Verrazzano would navigate uncharted waters, impacting subsequent exploration efforts.

Continue Reading
Exploration & Discovery

Giovanni da Verrazzano Explores New York Harbor

April 17th, 1524 500 years ago

In April 1524, Italian explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano became the first European to explore and document New York Harbor. Sailing for France, he navigated the Atlantic Ocean and entered the harbor, which he named 'Angoulême Bay' after the French king’s title. This discovery expanded European knowledge of the North American coastline and paved the way for further exploration. Verrazzano's journey highlighted the potential for trade and future settlement in the region, despite the absence of immediate European settlement.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Kaqchikel Maya Rebel Against Spanish Allies

August 28th, 1524 500 years ago

The Kaqchikel Maya, allied with the Spanish during the conquest, turned against their former Spanish allies. Led by their leaders, the Kaqchikel sought autonomy and resistive actions. This rebellion took place as Spanish forces sought to expand their control over the territory, causing significant shifts in alliances and conflicts throughout the region of Guatemala.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

French Siege of Pavia Commences

October 27th, 1524 500 years ago

In late October, French forces, led by King Francis I, laid siege to Pavia, a strategic city in northern Italy. The siege aimed to capture the city, which was a crucial stronghold in the Italian Wars. French troops surrounded Pavia, seeking to secure control over central Italy amidst ongoing territorial disputes with Spanish forces. The conflict was fueled by the quest for dominance in the region, making Pavia a vital target.

Continue Reading

Born in 1524 (View all 10)

Charles de Lorraine

French cardinal and church leader
Born
February 17th, 1524 501 years ago
Died
December 26th, 1574 450 years ago — 50 years old

A prominent figure in the Catholic Church during the 16th century, this individual served as a cardinal and played a significant role in religious affairs in France. Participated actively in the French Wars of Religion, aligning closely with the Catholic League. Contributed to the strengthening of Catholicism in France, supporting counter-reformation efforts and engaging in various ecclesiastical matters. Held significant influence over the church and contributed to the political landscape of France during a turbulent period.

Continue Reading

François Hotman

French lawyer and legal theorist
Born
August 23rd, 1524 500 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1590 435 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent lawyer and legal theorist, contributed significantly to the development of legal thought in France during the 16th century. Authored notable works that discussed the nature of law and governance, often focusing on the criticism of arbitrary power. Engaged in rigorous defense of the rights and privileges of the legal profession. Advocated for the principles of justice and political liberty, intertwining legal discussions with contemporary political issues. His teachings and writings influenced both legal thought and political philosophy in subsequent generations.

Continue Reading

Thomas Erastus

Swiss physician and theologian
Born
September 7th, 1524 500 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1583 441 years ago — 59 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of medicine and theology during the Reformation. Practiced as a physician in Basel, emphasizing the importance of empirical observation in medical practice. Engaged in theological debates, particularly in relation to the authority of the church and the role of civil government in ecclesiastical matters. Authored works that sought to bridge the gap between Protestant doctrine and civil authority, advocating for the separation of church and state functions. Influence extended into discussions on the intersection of faith and reason, shaping early thoughts on the integration of scientific inquiry within Christian contexts.

Continue Reading

Pierre de Ronsard

French poet and author of 'Les Odes'
Born
September 11th, 1524 500 years ago
Died
1585 440 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1524, this poet was a leading figure of the French Renaissance. He became a prominent member of the Pléiade, a group of poets who sought to elevate the French language and literature. Inspired by classical literature, the poet produced lyrical verses emphasizing themes of love, nature, and the passage of time. His most celebrated work, 'Les Odes', showcased a mastery of form and imagery, contributing significantly to French poetry. The poet's influence extended beyond his lifetime, impacting future generations of writers.

Continue Reading

Francisco Vallés

Spanish physician and medical author
Born
October 4th, 1524 500 years ago
Died
1592 433 years ago — 68 years old

A physician and medical author from Spain, contributed significantly to the field of medicine during the 16th century. Studied at the University of Alcalá and trained in various European cities. Authored several medical texts, including 'De Medicamentis' which detailed pharmaceutical practices and herbal remedies. Played a role in the medical reform of Spain and influenced contemporaries with his writings.

Continue Reading

Rani Durgavati

Queen of Gond with a legacy of valor
Born
October 5th, 1524 500 years ago
Died
1564 461 years ago — 40 years old

Rani Durgavati was a 16th-century queen of the Gond kingdom in central India. Ascending to the throne after the death of her husband, she ruled with strength and resilience. During her reign, she defended her kingdom against the Mughal Empire led by Akbar. Durgavati demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and waged several battles, notably the defense at the Narrai River. After a fierce confrontation, she chose to end her life rather than succumb to capture, marking her legacy as a symbol of bravery and resistance.

Continue Reading

People Who Died in 1524 (View all 15)

Marko Marulić

Croatian poet and founder of literature
Born
August 18th, 1450 574 years ago
Died
January 5th, 1524 501 years ago — 73 years old

Renowned as the father of Croatian literature, made significant contributions through poetry and prose. Achieved prominence with the epic poem 'Judita,' which showcased the themes of heroism and faith. His works laid the foundations for the Croatian literary tradition and influenced subsequent generations of writers. Engaged in civic life as well, promoting cultural and religious values through literary expression.

Continue Reading

Catherine of Saxony

Archduchess of Austria
Born
July 24th, 1468 556 years ago
Died
February 10th, 1524 501 years ago — 55 years old

Born into the House of Wettin, this archduchess served as a significant political figure in the early 16th century. Marriage to the influential Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I facilitated a union between powerful dynasties. Her tenure was marked by her role in the upbringing of Habsburg children, with particular focus on stabilizing political alliances through strategic marriages.

Continue Reading

Tecun Uman

Mayan ruler and warrior leader
Born
1500 525 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1524 501 years ago — 24 years old

Served as a prominent leader of the K'iche' Maya during the Spanish conquest of Guatemala. Led the resistance against Spanish forces led by Pedro de Alvarado. Fought valiantly to protect the independence and sovereignty of the indigenous people. Tecun Uman is often remembered as a symbol of Mayan resistance to colonial domination.

Continue Reading

Pierre Terrail

French soldier and military leader
Born
1473 552 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1524 500 years ago — 51 years old

A notable figure in the French military during the early 16th century, served under several kings of France. Gained recognition for bravery and skill in numerous battles, including the Italian Wars. Renowned for a reputation as a chivalrous knight, which earned admiration from contemporaries. Participated in key sieges and battles, contributing significantly to the French efforts in Italy. Ultimately met his demise during a battle at the age of 56.

Continue Reading

Richard Grey

3rd Earl of Kent, English peer
Born
1481 544 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1524 500 years ago — 43 years old

An English nobleman who held the title of 3rd Earl of Kent. Born into a prominent family, he was involved in the politics and governance of England during the late medieval period. His tenure included participation in various royal courts and he played a role in the tumultuous years surrounding the Wars of the Roses. The earl's lineage linked him to significant historical figures, reinforcing the influence of his family in English history. His death in 1524 marked the end of his contributions to the earldom.

Continue Reading

Ismail I

First Emperor of Safavid Empire
Born
1487 538 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1524 500 years ago — 37 years old

Founded the Safavid Empire in Persia, establishing Shia Islam as the state religion. Reigned from 1501 until his death in 1524, expanding territory and centralizing power. Established cultural and religious practices that defined the empire, influencing Persian identity.

Continue Reading