What Happened This Year 1538

People Who Died in 1538

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 487 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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Francesco Maria I della Rovere

Duke of Urbino, military leader
Born
1490 535 years ago
Died
October 20th, 1538 486 years ago — 48 years old

Served as the Duke of Urbino from 1516 until 1538. Engaged in military leadership as a condottiero. Participated in various conflicts in Italy during the Italian Wars. Worked to strengthen the duchy and its governance, supporting arts and architecture in Urbino.

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Andrea Gritti

Doge of Venice during War of the League of Cambrai
Born
April 17th, 1455 570 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1538 486 years ago — 83 years old

Served as Doge of Venice from 1523 until 1538. Played a key role in the politics of the Republic of Venice, particularly during the War of the League of Cambrai. Managed to restore Venice's influence in trade across the Mediterranean after the conflict. Promoted various naval and military reforms to strengthen the Venetian fleet. Oversaw significant construction projects in the city, contributing to the architectural landscape of Venice.

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Bodo VIII

Count of Stolberg-Wernigerode
Born
January 4th, 1467 558 years ago
Died
1538 487 years ago — 71 years old

Held the title of Count of Stolberg-Wernigerode in Germany during the late 15th century. Oversaw significant territorial management and governance of the region. Engaged in the politics of the time, contributing to the stability and administration of his lands. Also played a role in the building of alliances and dealing with local conflicts.

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