What Happened This Year 1540

Historical Events from This Year 1540

Politics & Government

King Henry VIII Marries Anne of Cleves

January 6th, 1540 485 years ago

King Henry VIII of England wed Anne of Cleves in a political alliance aimed at securing ties with Germany. The marriage took place at Hampton Court Palace, designed to strengthen England's position with Protestant states in the Holy Roman Empire. However, the union was strained from the onset, as Henry found Anne unattractive, leading to an amicable annulment just six months later.

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Religion & Philosophy

Surrender of Waltham Abbey to Henry VIII

March 23rd, 1540 484 years ago

Waltham Abbey was surrendered to King Henry VIII, marking the closure of the last religious community during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in England. The event occurred after the Abbey's leadership acknowledged the authority of the crown and the newly established Church of England. This surrender followed a period of intense pressure and threats from royal commissioners sent to confiscate monastic properties.

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Exploration & Discovery

Hernando de Alarcón's Gulf of California Expedition

May 9th, 1540 484 years ago

Hernando de Alarcón set sail on an expedition to explore the Gulf of California. Commissioned by the Viceroy of New Spain, de Alarcón aimed to locate the mythical Strait of Anián and establish ties with potential trade routes. Departing from the port of Acapulco, he navigated through challenging waters, documenting the coastal geography and indigenous populations he encountered along the way. The expedition contributed to Spain’s understanding of the region's resources and strategic importance.

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Politics & Government

Henry VIII Orders Anne of Cleves Departure

June 24th, 1540 484 years ago

King Henry VIII commanded Anne of Cleves to leave the court on June 24, 1540, following a tumultuous marriage that lasted only six months. The marriage was politically motivated, intended to solidify an alliance with Germany, but quickly fell apart due to Henry's dissatisfaction with Anne's appearance and their lack of physical attraction. Anne was informed of the decision by the king's advisors, leading to her exit from the Tudor court in London, which was a dramatic shift in her circumstances and royal status.

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Politics & Government

Henry VIII's Marriage to Anne of Cleves Annulled

July 9th, 1540 484 years ago

King Henry VIII of England annulled his marriage to Anne of Cleves after just six months. The marriage, initially arranged for political alliance, quickly proved to be unfruitful as Henry found Anne physically unattractive. The annulment was granted on the grounds of non-consummation and Anne's pre-contract to marry another man, leading to her receiving a generous settlement and the title of the King’s sister.

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Politics & Government

Henry VIII Marries Catherine Howard

July 28th, 1540 484 years ago

Henry VIII married Catherine Howard at Hampton Court Palace. This union took place shortly after the annulment of his marriage to Anne of Cleves. Catherine, 17 years old, was a lady-in-waiting to Anne and captured the king’s attention with her youthful beauty. Their marriage was celebrated with great pomp and circumstance, marking Henry's fifth matrimony as he continued his quest for a male heir.

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Politics & Government

Foundation of Arequipa, Peru

August 15th, 1540 484 years ago

Arequipa was founded by the Spanish conqueror, Garcí Manuel de Carbajal, on August 15, 1540. Nestled in the southern part of Peru, Arequipa became a strategic and commercial hub due to its location near the Andes mountains. The settlement was established in an area known for its fertile lands and favorable climate, allowing for agriculture and trade. Its establishment led to the development of a rich colonial culture that blended indigenous and Spanish influences.

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Religion & Philosophy

Jesuits Charter Granted by Pope Paul III

September 27th, 1540 484 years ago

The Society of Jesus, known as the Jesuits, was officially recognized by Pope Paul III through a charter which granted them the mission to serve the Catholic Church. Founded by Ignatius of Loyola and his companions, the order aimed to spread the Christian faith and undertake educational and missionary work. This papal approval allowed the Jesuits to establish themselves across Europe and beyond, facilitating a significant influence in religious, educational, and political spheres.

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Military & Warfare

Destruction of Mabila by Hernando de Soto

October 18th, 1540 484 years ago

Hernando de Soto's forces attacked and destroyed the fortified town of Mabila, located in present-day Alabama, resulting in the death of the town's leader, Tuskaloosa. This confrontation was part of de Soto's expedition to explore and conquer the southeastern part of North America armed with superior weaponry and tactics against indigenous forces. Tuskaloosa rallied his people to defend Mabila, which was strategically significant for its resources and location. The destruction of Mabila marked a pivotal moment in de Soto's campaign, underlining the violent encounters between European explorers and Native American societies.

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