What Happened This Year 1537

Historical Events from This Year 1537

Religion & Philosophy

Bigod's Rebellion Against English Reformation

January 16th, 1537 488 years ago

A significant armed insurrection led by Robert Bigod emerged in 1537, primarily in response to the sweeping changes initiated by the English Reformation. This rebellion saw participants rallying in Yorkshire, driven by their discontent over the dissolution of monasteries and the imposition of Protestant reforms. The dissidents viewed these actions as a direct attack on the Catholic faith and the traditional way of life, leading to a call to arms against the Crown’s policies. It reflected a deep-rooted resistance against the religious changes enforced by King Henry VIII and his government.

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Politics & Government

Foundation of Asunción in Paraguay

August 15th, 1537 487 years ago

Asunción was founded by Spanish explorer Juan de Salazar y Espinosa in response to Spanish colonial expansion in South America. Located on the banks of the Paraguay River, it became a key settlement for the Spanish as they sought to establish control over the region. The city, with its strategic position, served both as a fortification against indigenous groups and as a base for further exploration and conquest in the interior of the continent. Asunción subsequently grew into an important cultural and economic center.

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Military & Warfare

Formation of the Honourable Artillery Company

August 25th, 1537 487 years ago

The Honourable Artillery Company was formed in London, creating an essential military unit with roles in both defense and ceremonial duties. Aimed at enhancing the city’s protection, its establishment represented a significant development in the organization of military forces in England. This regiment not only serves a practical purpose but has also taken on historical significance through its ceremonial obligations, including the royal salute. The Honorary Artillery Company has evolved over the centuries, contributing to military history and civic pride.

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Born in 1537 (View all 11)

Toyotomi Hideyoshi

Japanese daimyō and unifier of Japan
Born
March 17th, 1537 487 years ago
Died
September 18th, 1598 426 years ago — 61 years old

Born in 1537, a prominent daimyō in 16th century Japan, played a crucial role in the unification of Japan during the Sengoku period. Initially a peasant, gained recognition as a general under Oda Nobunaga. After Nobunaga's death, took control of his forces and continued the campaign to unify Japan. Established the political structure that would dominate Japanese governance and society for decades. Promoted cultural arts, including the tea ceremony, and encouraged the construction of Osaka Castle. Died in 1598, leaving a legacy that shaped the nation.

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Guido Luca Ferrero

Roman Catholic cardinal in Italy
Born
May 18th, 1537 487 years ago
Died
1585 440 years ago — 48 years old

Born in 1537, a Roman Catholic cardinal held significant ecclesiastical authority during the 16th century. Appointed as cardinal in 1570, he served in various important roles within the Catholic Church, including bishop of several dioceses. Ferrero participated in the Council of Trent, a pivotal event aimed at addressing issues within the Church. His tenure was marked by a commitment to reforming church practices and strengthening the Catholic faith against Protestant challenges.

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Hieronymus Fabricius

Italian anatomist and embryologist
Born
May 20th, 1537 487 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1619 405 years ago — 82 years old

An influential figure in the field of anatomy, contributions to anatomical knowledge included detailed studies of the structure of various organs. His work laid the foundation for modern embryology and described numerous anatomical features with precision. Published 'De Formato Foetu', which presented groundbreaking ideas about embryonic development and the formation of organs. Fabricius held the chair of anatomy and surgery at the University of Padua, where he trained many notable anatomists and physicians.

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João Manuel

Prince of Portugal, Duke of Beja
Born
June 3rd, 1537 487 years ago
Died
1554 471 years ago — 17 years old

Born into the House of Aviz, this individual served as a prince and held the title of Duke of Beja. His lineage connected him to the royal family of Portugal, with a focus on the political and military affairs of the realm during the 16th century. As a member of the Portuguese nobility, he played a role in the governance and administration of the kingdom, contributing to the stability and legacy of the monarchy. The prince's engagements were noted during a time marked by exploration and the expansion of Portuguese influence.

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Arnaud d'Ossat

French cardinal and diplomat
Born
July 20th, 1537 487 years ago
Died
1604 421 years ago — 67 years old

Arnaud d'Ossat served as a prominent figure in the Catholic Church during the 16th century. He held the position of cardinal and was influential in church politics and diplomacy. His work included participation in the Congress of Poitiers and the Assembly of Paris in 1565. D'Ossat played a significant role in several diplomatic negotiations between France and the Papacy, contributing to the religious and political landscape of the time.

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Francesco Barozzi

Italian mathematician and astronomer
Born
August 9th, 1537 487 years ago
Died
1604 421 years ago — 67 years old

Contributed to mathematics and astronomy during the Renaissance. Worked on the mathematical principles of perspective and developed theories related to geometric proportions. Published various works that influenced later mathematicians and astronomers. Notable for contributions that advanced understanding of celestial mechanics and perspective in art.

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People Who Died in 1537 (View all 13)

Alessandro de' Medici

Duke of Florence, leader of the Medici
Born
1510 515 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1537 488 years ago — 27 years old

Alessandro de' Medici served as the Duke of Florence from 1532 until his assassination in 1537. He was the first Duke of Florence, installed by the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. His rule aimed to consolidate the power of the Medici family and maintain control over Florence amid political turmoil. Born in the Medici palace, Alessandro was the illegitimate son of Lorenzo de' Medici. His reign was characterized by attempts to influence the nobility and manage the city’s governance. However, dissatisfaction grew among the Florentine population regarding his leadership style and the perceived foreign influence represented by his connection to Charles V. This discontent ultimately led to his murder by his cousin, Lorenzo de' Medici, marking a significant turning point in Florentine politics.

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Thomas FitzGerald

10th Earl of Kildare, Irish noble
Born
1513 512 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1537 488 years ago — 24 years old

Served as the 10th Earl of Kildare and maintained significant influence in Ireland during the Tudor period. Held the position of Lord Deputy of Ireland on multiple occasions, overseeing governance during a turbulent time marked by conflicts between English and Irish interests. Engaged in political maneuvers to secure power and control over Irish lands. His tenure saw notable interactions with the English crown, navigating complex loyalty issues. Ultimately, captured and executed in 1537, marking a pivotal moment in Irish history.

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Saint Gerolamo Emiliani

Italian humanitarian and founder of hospitals
Born
1481 544 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1537 488 years ago — 56 years old

Founded the Congregation of the Servants of the Poor, establishing many orphanages and hospitals in Italy. Focused on providing care and support for abandoned children and the impoverished, promoting education and spiritual guidance. His work laid the foundation for modern charitable organizations in Italy, emphasizing the importance of servitude to the less fortunate. Canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1767, recognized for his dedication to social welfare and community service.

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Pedro de Mendoza

Spanish conquistador and founder of Buenos Aires
Born
1487 538 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1537 487 years ago — 50 years old

Contributed significantly to the Spanish colonization of the Americas as a conquistador. Led the first successful expedition to establish a permanent European settlement in present-day Argentina, founding Buenos Aires in 1536. Faced challenges from indigenous peoples and supply shortages, which ultimately led to the abandonment of the settlement. Part of the expedition to Peru and served as a military leader in various capacities. His leadership and actions had lasting implications for Spanish expansion in South America.

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Pavle Bakić

Last Serb Despot and medieval monarch
Died
September 20th, 1537 487 years ago — None years old

Served as the last despot of Serbia during the transitional period of the medieval Serbian state. Ruled from 1521 until the fall of the Despotate to the Ottoman Empire. Facilitated the administration and military efforts against the advancing Ottomans. His reign saw efforts to preserve Serbian culture and governance amidst external pressures and regional conflicts.

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Thomas Murner

German poet and translator, known for pamphlets
Born
December 24th, 1475 549 years ago
Died
1537 488 years ago — 62 years old

This individual was a German poet and translator, active during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Contributions included a range of literary works, which often critiqued societal norms and religious practices of the time. Murner became associated with the humanist movement and utilized his poetry to advocate for reform within the Church. His translations made classical literature accessible to a wider audience. Notable works included satirical pieces that reflected the struggles of his contemporaries. This individual's literary style combined humor with sharp social commentary, resonating with readers and influencing future generations of writers.

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