What Happened This Year 1540

People Who Died in 1540

Angela Merici

Italian educator and founder of Ursulines
Born
March 21st, 1474 550 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1540 485 years ago — 65 years old

An Italian educator and saint, established the Company of St. Ursula in 1535 to provide education to girls. This organization contributed significantly to the development of women's education in Europe. Developed a unique approach to education that integrated spiritual and academic development, emphasizing moral and civic responsibilities. The Company of St. Ursula became a global network of schools and institutions focused on educating young women and fostering their leadership roles in society.

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Matthäus Lang von Wellenburg

German Cardinal and Church Leader
Born
1469 556 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1540 484 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in the Catholic Church, a cardinal from Germany, and an influential statesman during the early 16th century. Held several important ecclesiastical positions, including Archbishop of Salzburg, and played a significant role in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire. Participated in various diplomatic missions, shaping church and state relations. His tenure included efforts to reform the church and manage internal disputes within the clergy. Known for his involvement in the political landscape of his time, balancing religious authority with secular power.

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Juan Luís Vives

Spanish scholar and humanist
Born
1492 533 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1540 484 years ago — 48 years old

A prominent scholar of the Renaissance, contributed significantly to philosophy and education. Influenced by humanist ideas, emphasized the importance of education and introduced reforms in pedagogy. Authored influential texts such as 'De Veritate' and 'De Educatione Puerorum', which focused on the moral and intellectual development of students. Worked in various European cities, including Bruges and Oxford, and served as a personal advisor to Queen Catherine of Aragon.

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Francesco Guicciardini

Historian and politician, author of 'The History of Italy'
Born
March 6th, 1483 542 years ago
Died
May 22nd, 1540 484 years ago — 57 years old

An Italian historian and politician emerged during the Renaissance period. His most significant work, 'The History of Italy', provided a detailed account of Italian history from 1494 to 1534, analyzing political events and figures. Guicciardini served as a political leader in Florence and held various diplomatic roles. His writings included a series of letters and essays that highlighted his understanding of politics and power dynamics, as well as his views on governance. He was a contemporary of Machiavelli and contributed to discussions on statecraft and political theory.

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Konrad von Thüngen

German nobleman and politician
Died
June 16th, 1540 484 years ago — None years old

A German nobleman, active during the late 15th to early 16th centuries. Held significant influence within regional politics and governance. His tenure was marked by involvement in the administrative affairs of the Holy Roman Empire. Played a role in various local noble assemblies and contributed to the political landscape of the time. Oversaw management of estates and participated in military endeavors during conflicts of the period.

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John Zápolya

Hungarian king during the 16th century
Born
1487 538 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1540 484 years ago — 53 years old

Ruled as the King of Hungary from 1526 until death in 1540. Ascended the throne during a time of political turmoil following the Battle of Mohács. Established himself through support from the Ottoman Empire and contended against Austrian influence in Hungary. His reign was marked by internal conflict and external threats, culminating in the division of Hungary between the Ottomans and Habsburgs.

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Thomas Cromwell

English lawyer and Chancellor of the Exchequer
Born
1495 530 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1540 484 years ago — 45 years old

A significant figure in 16th-century England, served as a legal advisor and politician. Played a crucial role in the English Reformation and was instrumental in the establishment of the Church of England. Oversaw the dissolution of the monasteries, which led to the redistribution of their assets to the Crown. Held the title of Chancellor of the Exchequer and managed the finances of the kingdom. His political maneuvering and reforms shaped the administrative practices of the Tudor court until his execution in 1540.

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Robert Barnes

English martyr and religious reformer
Born
1495 530 years ago
Died
July 30th, 1540 484 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent figure in the English Reformation, played a crucial role in advocating for the translation of the Bible into English. Associated with the development of Protestant thought, publicly supported the ideas of Martin Luther. His theological writings contributed to the reformist discourse in England. Arrested for his beliefs, he was executed by burning, becoming a symbol of religious dissent.

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Guillaume Budé

French philosopher and scholar of humanism
Born
1467 558 years ago
Died
August 23rd, 1540 484 years ago — 73 years old

A prominent figure in the French Renaissance, contributed significantly to the humanistic movement. Championed the study of classical texts, emphasizing the importance of Greek and Latin literature. Founded the Collège des Lecteurs Royaux in 1530, which later became the Collège de France. Authored significant works on language, philosophy, and history, influencing education in France and beyond.

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