What Happened This Year 1539

People Who Died in 1539

John III

Duke of Cleves and Jülich
Born
November 10th, 1490 534 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1539 486 years ago — 48 years old

Ruled as Duke of Cleves and Jülich from 1521 until death in 1539. Became significant in the context of the Protestant Reformation, particularly due to alliances formed with key figures of the time. Engaged in strategic marriages to strengthen political ties within the region. His reign included conflicts with neighboring territories, highlighting the complex political landscape of the era. The significance of his lineage continued long after his death, impacting future dynastic connections in the region.

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Isabella d'Este

Italian noblewoman and patron of the arts
Born
1474 551 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1539 486 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent figure of the Italian Renaissance, this noblewoman played a significant role in the cultural and political life of Italy. As the Marchioness of Mantua, she used her influence to support artists and intellectuals, creating a notable court that attracted leading figures of the time. An accomplished collector, she amassed a renowned collection of art and was instrumental in the advancement of Renaissance humanism. Her correspondence with prominent artists and thinkers provides valuable insight into the period and showcases her interest in art, literature, and politics.

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Nuno da Cunha

Portuguese admiral and governor
Born
1487 538 years ago
Died
March 5th, 1539 486 years ago — 52 years old

An admiral and politician from Portugal. Served as Governor of Portuguese India from 1538 until death in 1539. Focused on establishing Portuguese influence in India during a critical period of colonial expansion. Actively engaged in military campaigns to secure territory and strengthen trade relations in the region. His governance contributed to the early consolidation of Portuguese power in Asia, shaping the future of the colony.

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Thomas Boleyn

English diplomat and politician
Born
1477 548 years ago
Died
March 12th, 1539 486 years ago — 62 years old

Held the title of 1st Earl of Wiltshire. Served as a diplomat and politician in the Tudor court. Played a significant role in the schemes that led to the marriages of his daughters, particularly Anne Boleyn, to King Henry VIII, contributing to the English Reformation. Actively participated in the political landscape of England during the early 16th century, shaping the royal court's dynamics.

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Lord Edmund Howard

English nobleman and courtier
Died
March 19th, 1539 485 years ago — None years old

Born around 1478, this English nobleman served in the royal court during the reign of Henry VIII. He was the father of the famous consort Catherine Howard, the fifth wife of Henry VIII. His noble lineage tied him to influential royal connections, impacting the political landscape of 16th century England. He held various positions at court, contributing to the administration of the realm. He died on March 19, 1539.

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George

Margrave of Brandenburg-Ansbach
Born
March 4th, 1484 541 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1539 485 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1484, this Margrave ruled Brandenburg-Ansbach during the early 16th century. His reign was characterized by efforts to strengthen the territory's economy and governance. Engaged in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire, he played a role in local and imperial affairs. His rule also saw interactions with the Protestant Reformation, reflecting the changing religious landscape of the time. The Margrave's legacy included the promotion of local culture and the development of administrative frameworks that influenced subsequent leadership in the region.

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Isabella of Portugal

Queen consort of Spain
Born
October 24th, 1503 521 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1539 485 years ago — 35 years old

Served as queen consort of Spain through marriage to Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor. Played a significant role in the political landscape of 16th-century Europe. Contributed to the unification of Spain under the Habsburg dynasty and helped establish the foundation for future Spanish imperial expansion. Known for supporting various cultural and religious initiatives.

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Anthony Maria Zaccaria

Italian saint and founder of the Barnabites
Born
1502 523 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1539 485 years ago — 37 years old

Founded the Clerics Regular of St. Paul, known as the Barnabites, in 1530. Established the Congregation of the Oratory in 1537, focusing on education and pastoral care. Initiated the promotion of the feast of the Holy Family. Played a significant role in the spiritual renewal of the Church during the Counter-Reformation.

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Guru Nanak

First Sikh Guru and founder of Sikhism
Born
April 15th, 1469 555 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1539 485 years ago — 70 years old

Began spiritual teachings in the late 15th century, establishing the principles of Sikhism. Emphasized the importance of one God, equality of all people, and community service. Travelled extensively across South Asia to spread messages of love and compassion. Compiled hymns and teachings that were later included in the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism. Founded the city of Kartarpur, which became an important center for Sikh worship.

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