What Happened This Year 1538

Historical Events from This Year 1538

Politics & Government

Treaty Compromise Between Ferdinand I and John Zápolya

February 24th, 1538 487 years ago

The Treaty of Nagyvárad was established to resolve the conflict over the Hungarian throne following the death of Louis II. Signed between Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand I and King John Zápolya, it recognized both rulers' claims to the throne of Hungary. The treaty ultimately sought to avoid further armed conflict and establish a lasting peace, delineating the territories controlled by each monarch. It was an effort to stabilize the region amidst the rising power of the Ottoman Empire and internal divisions.

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Religion & Philosophy

John Calvin Exiled From Geneva

May 26th, 1538 486 years ago

John Calvin, a key Protestant reformer, was expelled from Geneva alongside his followers due to rising tensions between civic authorities and reformist factions. The decision stemmed from conflicts over theological issues and governance. Following their expulsion, Calvin settled in Strasbourg where he continued to shape Protestantism and refine his theological insights. This exile period also served to strengthen his resolve to return and influence Geneva even further.

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Politics & Government

Foundation of Guayaquil by Francisco de Orellana

July 25th, 1538 486 years ago

Francisco de Orellana established Guayaquil, naming it Muy Noble y Muy Leal Ciudad de Santiago de Guayaquil. Situated on the banks of the Guayas River, this settlement became a strategic port and center for Spanish activities in the region. Orellana's exploration aimed to facilitate Spanish colonial interests and enhance trade routes, ultimately contributing to the Spanish crown's expansion in South America.

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Exploration & Discovery

Foundation of Bogotá by Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada

August 6th, 1538 486 years ago

Gonzalo Jiménez de Quesada established Bogotá, Colombia, stemming from Spanish colonial pursuits. As he led an expedition searching for gold, he and his followers encountered indigenous peoples in the region, marking the establishment of a significant settlement. Named Bogotá in honor of the Bacatá indigenous settlement, the city would grow to be crucial in the political and economic landscape of Colombia.

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Military & Warfare

Ottoman Victory over Holy League Fleet

September 28th, 1538 486 years ago

The Battle of Preveza marked a significant naval clash between the Ottoman Empire and the Holy League, resulting in a decisive victory for the Ottoman Navy led by Admiral Hayreddin Barbarossa. The confrontation occurred off the coast of Preveza in Greece, where the Holy League, comprising various Christian states, aimed to weaken Ottoman naval dominance in the Mediterranean. Despite their combined strength, the Holy League fleet was outmaneuvered and suffered substantial losses, affirming Ottoman control over the sea routes.

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Education & Academia

Foundation of Universidad Santo Tomás de Aquino

October 28th, 1538 486 years ago

The Universidad Santo Tomás de Aquino was established in the town of Santo Domingo, now known as the Dominican Republic. Founded by the Catholic Church under the authority of King Charles I of Spain, this institution aimed to provide higher education and promote Christian teachings in the Caribbean region. The university served as an essential center for education and culture in the New World. Notably, it became the first institution of higher learning in the Americas, marking a significant milestone in the establishment of educational frameworks in the colonies.

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Born in 1538 (View all 16)

Jane Dormer

English lady-in-waiting to Mary I
Born
January 6th, 1538 487 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1612 413 years ago — 74 years old

Served as a lady-in-waiting to Mary I of England and held a significant court position during the Tudor era. Closely associated with the royal family, provided companionship and support to the queen. After Mary's death, retired to a life of relative obscurity, penning reflections on her experiences at court. Played a role in the politics and intrigues of the time, navigating the complexities of royal favor and loyalty.

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Louis of Nassau

Dutch nobleman and military leader
Born
January 10th, 1538 487 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1574 450 years ago — 36 years old

A nobleman in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule, served as a key military leader for the Protestant cause. He played a significant role in several battles and campaigns aimed at liberating the Netherlands from Habsburg control. His leadership contributed to the organization and consolidation of military strategies during this tumultuous period. He was closely associated with William of Orange and shared similar political and military objectives. His endeavors in the military resistance against Spain remained integral to the wider struggle for Dutch independence.

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Maeda Toshiie

Japanese general during the Sengoku period
Born
January 15th, 1538 487 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1599 425 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent general during the Sengoku period, contributed significantly to the unification of Japan under the Toyotomi clan. Served loyally under Toyotomi Hideyoshi, playing a crucial role in military campaigns. Known for strategic brilliance and strong leadership in battles, including the Siege of Odawara and the Korean invasions. Established a powerful domain in Kaga, fostering the development of the region and supporting the arts and culture.

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Christopher Clavius

Mathematician and astronomer, calendars
Born
March 25th, 1538 486 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1612 413 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent mathematician and astronomer contributed significantly to the development of the Gregorian calendar. Worked extensively on mathematical education and published influential textbooks in mathematics. Served as a professor at the Collegio Romano, where the curriculum emphasized mathematics and astronomy. His writings helped shape the understanding of mathematics in Europe during the late 16th and early 17th centuries.

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Guglielmo Gonzaga

Duke of Mantua and art patron
Born
April 24th, 1538 486 years ago
Died
1587 438 years ago — 49 years old

Born in 1538, served as the Duke of Mantua from 1550 until death in 1587. Effective in governance and known for contributions to the cultural development of Mantua. Promoted the arts and supported several artists during the Renaissance. Strengthened the political alliances of the Duchy through strategic marriages and diplomatic initiatives. Worked to enhance the prestige of the court of Mantua.

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Gian Paolo Lomazzo

Italian Painter and Art Theorist
Born
April 26th, 1538 486 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1592 433 years ago — 53 years old

An Italian painter and art theorist, contributed significantly to the art world during the late Renaissance. Lomazzo had a diverse body of work, with a strong emphasis on religious and mythological subjects. His written works, particularly 'Trattato dell'arte della pittura', outlined theories on painting and aesthetics, influencing artists of his time and later generations. Lomazzo's theoretical approach included discussions on composition, perspective, and the emotional impact of color in art. His paintings often displayed vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, marking him as a notable figure in the Lombard painting tradition.

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People Who Died in 1538 (View all 11)

Beatrice of Portugal

Duchess of Savoy, Queen consort of France
Born
December 31st, 1504 520 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1538 487 years ago — 33 years old

Born in 1498, Beatrice of Portugal became the Duchess of Savoy through her marriage to Charles III. This union strengthened political ties between Portugal and Savoy during the early 16th century. Beatrice had a significant role in the politics of her time, particularly through her lineage and connections. She also served as the Queen consort of France by marriage to Louis XII, solidifying alliances between Portugal and France. Beatrice's life was marked by her marriage arrangements that had political implications in European nobility.

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Albrecht Altdorfer

German painter, engraver, architect
Born
1480 545 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1538 487 years ago — 58 years old

Active during the early 16th century, contributed significantly to the development of landscape painting. Created masterpiece 'The Battle of Alexander at Issus', showcasing intricate details and vivid colors. His work also included religious and historical themes, blending nature with narrative. Altdorfer was associated with the Danube School and emphasized individual expression through his art. He was also an architect, contributing designs to buildings in Regensburg.

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Elena Glinskaya

Grand Princess and regent of Russia
Died
April 4th, 1538 486 years ago — None years old

Served as regent of Russia during the minority of her son, Ivan IV. Influenced the political landscape through her leadership and navigation of court intrigues. Played a significant role in consolidating power after the death of her husband, Grand Prince Vasili III. Strengthened the Moscow principality during her regency and managed state affairs until Ivan IV reached maturity.

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John Forest

English friar and martyr
Born
1471 554 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1538 486 years ago — 67 years old

An English friar of the Franciscan order, dedicated to a life of religious service and teaching. During the reign of King Henry VIII, held firm against the king's separation from the Roman Catholic Church. Emphasized the importance of traditional Catholic doctrines, which led to conflicts with the authorities. Arrested in 1538 for opposing the royal Supremacy and advocating for papal authority. Executed by burning in Smithfield, London, becoming a symbol of Catholic resistance during the English Reformation.

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Diego de Almagro

Spanish general and explorer
Born
1475 550 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1538 486 years ago — 63 years old

Served as a Spanish general and explorer during the early 16th century. Partnered with Francisco Pizarro in the conquest of the Inca Empire. Led his own expedition to the southern regions of South America, claiming vast territories for Spain. Engaged in conflicts over land and resources with indigenous populations and rival Spanish factions. Died following a defeat in battle against forces loyal to Pizarro.

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Henry III of Nassau-Breda

Noble ruler and stadtholder
Born
1483 542 years ago
Died
September 14th, 1538 486 years ago — 55 years old

Served as the Count of Nassau-Breda and played a significant role in the political landscape of the Low Countries during the early 16th century. Held the title of stadtholder of Holland, Zeeland, and Utrecht. Participated in military campaigns in the service of the Habsburgs and improved the administration of his territories. His governance and strategic marriages strengthened the Nassau family's influence.

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