What Happened This Year 1544

People Who Died in 1544

Louis V

Elector Palatine, ruler in Germany
Born
July 2nd, 1478 546 years ago
Died
May 21st, 987 1037 years ago — -492 years old

Born in 1478, served as Elector Palatine, overseeing the Palatinate region of Germany. Held the title during a tumultuous period characterized by political conflict and the rise of the Protestant Reformation. The electoral power allowed for significant influence in the Holy Roman Empire. Engaged in several territorial disputes and had an important role in the governance of the Palatinate. His tenure featured efforts to consolidate power and navigate the complexities of regional politics.

Continue Reading

Johannes Magnus

Swedish archbishop and theologian
Born
March 19th, 1488 536 years ago
Died
March 22nd, 1544 480 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1488, served as an archbishop in Sweden during the Reformation. Wrote influential theological works, including a history of Sweden, which emphasized the importance of the Swedish church. Opposed Lutheran reforms, advocating for Catholic traditions and unity within the church. His writings were pivotal in the theological debates of his time, and his efforts contributed to the preservation of Catholic practices in Sweden during a period of significant religious change.

Continue Reading

Thomas Audley

English Lawyer, Lord Chancellor
Born
1488 537 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1544 480 years ago — 56 years old

Held the title of 1st Baron Audley of Walden and served as Lord Chancellor of England. Played a significant role in the legal system during the reign of Henry VIII. Participated in the dissolution of the monasteries and supported the King's marriage to Anne Boleyn. Contributed to the establishment of the Act of Supremacy, which recognized the King as the Supreme Head of the Church of England.

Continue Reading

Antoine

Duke of Lorraine and military leader
Born
June 4th, 1489 535 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1544 480 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1489, this noble served as the Duke of Lorraine from 1508 until his death in 1544. He played a significant role in military and political affairs during the Renaissance period in Europe. Through strategic marriages and alliances, he strengthened the territorial integrity of Lorraine. His leadership during the Italian Wars was notable, where he engaged in various conflicts that shaped the political landscape of the region.

Continue Reading

René of Châlon

Prince of Orange
Born
February 5th, 1519 506 years ago
Died
July 15th, 1544 480 years ago — 25 years old

Born in 1519, served as Prince of Orange and a prominent leader in the early development of the Dutch Republic. Received the title of Count of Orange while managing the complex political landscape of the time. Actively involved in military campaigns against the French and was a key figure during the era of the Reformation. Engaged in various diplomatic efforts to strengthen Protestant alliances. Died in battle in 1544 at the Siege of Saint-Dizier.

Continue Reading

Clément Marot

French poet of the Renaissance era
Born
November 23rd, 1496 528 years ago
Died
September 12th, 1544 480 years ago — 47 years old

A prominent poet during the French Renaissance, contributed to the development of French literature through lyrical poetry and translations of classical works. Associated with the court of King Francis I, Marot produced a variety of poems that showcased his skill in the rondeau form. His writings explored themes of love, human experience, and social commentary. His translation of the Psalms into French made a significant impact on religious and secular poetry, influencing both contemporaries and later poets. Marot's work helped pave the way for future literary movements in France.

Continue Reading

Teofilo Folengo

Italian monk and poet, 'Leccon' creator
Born
November 8th, 1491 533 years ago
Died
December 9th, 1544 480 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1491, a monk and poet contributed significantly to Italian literature during the Renaissance. Folengo is celebrated for creating the macaronic poem 'Orlandino', which combines Italian and Latin languages. His works are characterized by playful language and a critical view of contemporary society. Folengo's literary career began after entering a Benedictine monastery, where he diverged from traditional forms of poetry. He published under the pseudonym Merlin Cocai, gaining attention for innovative poetic styles and humor. His writings influenced later generations of poets, merging serious themes with comic elements.

Continue Reading

Lucy Brocadelli

Dominican tertiary and stigmatic
Born
December 13th, 1476 548 years ago
Died
1544 481 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1476, a prominent member of the Dominican Order. Established a reputation for religious devotion and mystical experiences. Received the stigmata, marking marked significant spiritual significance. Engaged in spiritual writings and guidance during a time of religious transformation.

Continue Reading