What Happened This Year 1549

Historical Events from This Year 1549

Politics & Government

Founding of Salvador, First Capital of Brazil

March 29th, 1549 475 years ago

Salvador, Bahia was established as the first capital of Brazil by the Portuguese. Founded by Tomé de Souza, it aimed to foster colonization and secure Portuguese interests in the New World. The city was strategically located on the coast, facilitating trade with Europe and Africa, and became a central hub for the growing sugar industry.

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Religion & Philosophy

Francis Xavier Arrives in Japan

July 27th, 1549 475 years ago

The ship of Jesuit priest Francis Xavier landed in Japan, marking a pivotal moment in the introduction of Christianity to the region. Xavier, alongside his companions, intended to spread the Christian faith and establish missions in Japan, influenced by a growing interest in the East. His arrival at the port of Kagoshima initiated significant cultural exchanges and laid the foundation for European missionary activities in Japan.

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Religion & Philosophy

Francis Xavier Lands in Kagoshima

August 15th, 1549 475 years ago

Francis Xavier, a notable Jesuit priest, arrived in Kagoshima, Japan, along with his companion, on a mission to spread Christianity. His arrival marked the beginning of significant cultural and religious exchanges between Japan and Europe. This historic moment was fueled by the expanding interest Europe had in trade and the potential for missionary work in Asia. Xavier's choice of Kagoshima, a bustling port city in southern Japan, was strategic as it was a gateway to Japanese culture and politics, laying the groundwork for future Jesuit missions in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Prayer Book Rebellion Defeated at Sampford Courtenay

August 17th, 1549 475 years ago

The Prayer Book Rebellion was forcibly suppressed by government troops at Sampford Courtenay, marking a significant moment in the religious turmoil of 16th century England. Rebel forces, predominantly Cornish and Devonian, opposed the imposition of the English Book of Common Prayer, which they saw as a threat to their traditional worship practices. The confrontation led to a decisive victory for the crown forces, eliminating organized resistance against the new religious reforms implemented by King Edward VI.

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Religion & Philosophy

Beginning of the Papal Conclave of 1549-50

November 29th, 1549 475 years ago

The papal conclave of 1549-50 commenced in December 1549, marking a pivotal moment in the selection of a new pope following the death of Pope Paul III. Held in Rome, the conclave was attended by 38 cardinals who gathered in the Sistine Chapel to deliberate in secrecy. A significant aspect of this conclave was the unresolved factionalism among cardinals, particularly between the pro-Spanish and pro-French factions, which reflected the ongoing geopolitical tensions in Europe at the time. Ultimately, the conclave aimed to elect a leader who could unify the Church amidst these challenges.

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Born in 1549 (View all 17)

Jakob Ebert

German theologian and scholar
Born
January 26th, 1549 476 years ago
Died
1614 411 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent theologian in the 16th century, contributed significantly to Protestant Reformation thought. Played a crucial role in the development of Lutheran doctrine and biblical interpretation. Held a position as a professor and played a key part in academic circles of the time. Engaged in theological debates and authored important works reflecting the theological climate of the period.

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Francesco Maria II della Rovere

Duke of Urbino, last Duke of Urbino
Born
February 20th, 1549 476 years ago
Died
1631 394 years ago — 82 years old

Duke of Urbino from 1538 until death in 1574, served as a notable patron of the arts and humanism during the Renaissance. Oversaw a court that attracted artists and intellectuals. Maintained political power amidst shifting alliances and conflicts. Continued the lineage and legacy of the Montefeltro family, contributing to the cultural heritage of the region. His reign concluded the era of the independent Duchy of Urbino, which was central to the Italian Renaissance.

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Princess Elizabeth of Sweden

Swedish princess and royal family member
Born
April 5th, 1549 475 years ago
Died
1597 428 years ago — 48 years old

Born in 1549, the individual held the title of Princess of Sweden as part of the Vasa dynasty. As a daughter of King Gustav I of Sweden, she played a significant role in the Swedish royal lineage. She married the Duke of Södermanland and became influential in the royal court. The individual’s life reflected the political alliances and dynamics of the 16th century, contributing to the stability of the Swedish monarchy. The individual remained a prominent figure in the historical context of Sweden during the Reformation period.

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Elizabeth Knollys

English noblewoman and courtier
Born
June 15th, 1549 475 years ago
Died
1605 420 years ago — 56 years old

Born into a prominent family, served as a lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth I. Participated in the royal court's political and social life. Married Sir Francis Knollys and had several children. Contributed to the Tudor court's cultural landscape through her connections and status. Engaged in the governance of family estates and supported the Protestant cause.

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Francesco Maria del Monte

Italian cardinal and art collector
Born
July 5th, 1549 475 years ago
Died
1627 398 years ago — 78 years old

Born in Italy, an influential cardinal and art collector played a significant role in the Catholic Church during the late Renaissance. Del Monte served as a protégé to Pope Pius V and was appointed to important ecclesiastical positions. He was instrumental in promoting the works of prominent artists like Caravaggio, for whom he provided patronage, leading to the creation of masterpieces such as 'The Calling of Saint Matthew.' His extensive art collection contributed to the cultural landscape of Rome during this period.

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Edward Manners

3rd Earl of Rutland
Born
July 12th, 1549 475 years ago
Died
April 14th, 1587 437 years ago — 37 years old

Held the title of 3rd Earl of Rutland, serving during a time of significant political change in England. Managed estates and lands associated with the title, contributing to the governance of the region. Engaged in the political landscape of the Elizabethan era, representing the interests of the nobility. Demonstrated loyalty to the crown, particularly during the tensions of the period.

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People Who Died in 1549 (View all 12)

Johannes Honter

Cartographer and theologian in Transylvania
Born
1498 527 years ago
Died
January 23rd, 1549 476 years ago — 51 years old

A Romanian-Hungarian cartographer and theologian, this individual significantly contributed to the fields of geography and religious thought during the Renaissance. Primarily active in Transylvania, created influential works in cartography and published maps that were utilized in European studies. The printed maps played a crucial role in the dissemination of geographical knowledge. Also published theological works addressing Reformation ideas and contributing to religious discourse in the region. Engaged in teaching and promoting education in geography and theology, influencing future generations of scholars.

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Il Sodoma

Italian painter of Renaissance frescoes
Born
1477 548 years ago
Died
February 14th, 1549 476 years ago — 72 years old

An Italian painter active during the Renaissance period, recognized for contributions to religious and mythological themes through frescoes and altarpieces. Worked primarily in Siena and collaborated with prominent artists of the time. Major works include the frescoes in the Chapel of St. John the Baptist in the Siena Cathedral. His style reflected the influence of both classical antiquity and contemporary innovations.

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Thomas Seymour

English general and politician, 1st Baron
Born
1508 517 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1549 475 years ago — 41 years old

1st Baron Seymour of Sudeley served as an English general and politician during the Tudor period. He was appointed Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Seymour was a prominent figure in court politics and held significant power during the reign of Edward VI. He married Catherine Parr, the widow of Henry VIII, which elevated his status. After Parr's death, his ambitions led to political intrigue and conflict with the governing council. His attempts to consolidate power ultimately resulted in his arrest and execution for treason in 1549.

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Anthony Denny

English politician and courtier
Born
January 16th, 1501 524 years ago
Died
September 10th, 1549 475 years ago — 48 years old

Served as a prominent courtier and Member of Parliament during the reign of King Henry VIII. Held the position of Chief Gentleman of the Privy Chamber and was involved in key decisions related to state affairs. Played a significant role in the dissolution of the monasteries and managed royal household matters. Involved in political intrigues typical of the Tudor court, Denny navigated various power struggles and the shifting loyalties of the time.

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Pope Paul III

Papal leader during the Renaissance period
Born
February 29th, 1468 557 years ago
Died
November 10th, 1549 475 years ago — 81 years old

Birth occurred on February 29, 1468. Became Pope in 1534 and served until death in 1549. Convened the Council of Trent, which addressed issues of church reform and clarified Catholic doctrine. Promoted the arts and commissioned works from renowned artists such as Michelangelo. Oversaw significant events such as the Protestant Reformation, leading to important changes within the Catholic Church.

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Marguerite de Navarre

Queen of Henry II of Navarre
Born
1492 533 years ago
Died
December 21st, 1549 475 years ago — 57 years old

Marguerite de Navarre, a significant figure of the Renaissance, served as the queen consort of Henry II of Navarre. She was also a prominent patron of the arts and a writer. Her literary works included poetry, notably the 'Heptaméron', a collection of tales that reflected her interest in humanism and morality. She played a key role in the court, influencing the cultural landscape of her time. As a member of the influential Béarn family, connections to various royal houses were established, enhancing political stability and alliances in a period characterized by religious conflict in France.

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