What Happened This Year 1555

Historical Events from This Year 1555 (View all 7)

Military & Warfare

Fall of Ava Kingdom to Taungoo Dynasty

January 22nd, 1555 470 years ago

The Ava Kingdom in present-day Myanmar fell to the Taungoo Dynasty after a prolonged conflict, marking a significant shift in power in the region. The Taungoo forces, led by King Bayinnaung, successfully captured the Ava capital, asserting dominance in Upper Myanmar. This victory allowed the Taungoo Dynasty to expand its territory and influence, setting the stage for the unification of Burma under a single rule. The event is noted for its impact on the political landscape of Myanmar and the significant military prowess displayed by the Taungoo forces.

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Religion & Philosophy

John Rogers Becomes First English Protestant Martyr

February 4th, 1555 470 years ago

John Rogers was executed by burning at the stake in 1555, marking a significant moment during the reign of Mary I of England. A prominent Protestant reformer and translator of the Bible, Rogers was known for his staunch opposition to Roman Catholicism. He was arrested and tried for heresy, ultimately leading to his execution in Smithfield, London. His martyrdom galvanized the Protestant movement, making him a symbol of resistance against the Catholic resurgence in England during Mary’s reign.

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Religion & Philosophy

Bishop John Hooper Executed by Burning

February 9th, 1555 470 years ago

John Hooper, the Bishop of Gloucester, was executed by burning at the stake in London. He was a prominent figure during the English Reformation and an advocate for Protestant reform. His execution was a result of the Marian persecutions under Queen Mary I, aimed at suppressing Protestantism in England. Hooper initially denied the authority of the Catholic Church and refused to retreat from his beliefs, ultimately leading to his martyrdom on this day.

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Military & Warfare

Ottoman Admiral Turgut Reis Sacks Paola

July 2nd, 1555 469 years ago

Ottoman Admiral Turgut Reis led a naval raid on the Italian city of Paola, exploiting its vulnerabilities. The raid resulted in the capture and looting of the city, showcasing the power of the Ottoman fleet in the Mediterranean. Turgut Reis aimed to expand Ottoman influence and disrupt rival territories.

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Politics & Government

Reincorporation of the College of Arms

July 18th, 1555 469 years ago

The College of Arms was officially reinstated through a Royal Charter, signed by Queen Mary I of England and King Philip II of Spain. This charter provided the College with the authority and structure necessary for its functions, reinforcing its role in heraldry and genealogy. The union of these monarchs, rooted in both political marriage and shared authority, marked a significant point in English heraldic tradition.

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Politics & Government

Peace of Augsburg Signed Between Factions

September 25th, 1555 469 years ago

The Peace of Augsburg was a landmark treaty signed, aimed to resolve the religious conflicts between Protestant princes and Emperor Charles V in the Holy Roman Empire. It established the principle of 'cuius regio, eius religio', which allowed rulers to determine the religion of their own territories. This compromise marked a significant attempt to reconcile the deeply divided religious factions within the empire, and shaped the future of religious and political relations in Europe. The agreement was completed at Augsburg, Germany, and represented the culmination of decades of tensions and hostilities.

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Born in 1555 (View all 17)

Francis, Duke of Anjou

Nobleman and claimant to the English throne
Born
March 18th, 1555 469 years ago
Died
1584 441 years ago — 29 years old

Born in 1555, a nobleman from the House of Valois, played a significant role in the political landscape of 16th-century France and England. Served as the Duke of Anjou and was one of the last heirs to the Valois dynasty. His claim to the English throne stemmed from a proposed marriage to Queen Elizabeth I, which was part of political maneuvers during his time. His ambitions led to military involvement in the Netherlands under Spanish rule, where he attempted to assert influence over the region's governance. Engagements in various conflicts occurred through the late 1570s until his eventual death in 1584.

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Ludovico Carracci

Italian painter and etcher, ceiling frescoes
Born
April 21st, 1555 469 years ago
Died
November 13th, 1619 405 years ago — 64 years old

Born in Bologna in 1555, this artist became a prominent figure in the Baroque movement. Training alongside his family, he developed a distinct style that blended realism with classical influences. Carracci established the Accademia degli Incamminati, a school that trained many successful artists. His works often focused on religious themes, featuring dynamic compositions and vivid colors. His mural paintings, particularly in the Palazzo Farnese in Rome, showcase his mastery in fresco techniques. Carracci's ability to capture human emotion and movement contributed significantly to the evolution of Baroque painting.

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Jerónima de la Asunción

Spanish Catholic nun and founder
Born
May 9th, 1555 469 years ago
Died
1630 395 years ago — 75 years old

Established the first monastery in Manila, contributing to the spread of Catholicism in the Philippines. Dedicated life to religious service and education. Played a significant role in the formation of monastic life in the country during the Spanish colonial period.

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George Carew

English general and 1st Earl of Totnes
Born
May 29th, 1555 469 years ago
Died
1629 396 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1555, served as a general and administrator in Ireland during the late 16th century. Played a key role in the English efforts to subdue the Irish during the Nine Years' War. Appointed as the president of Munster, he worked towards consolidating English control over the region. Contributed to military campaigns and engagements, strengthening English influence in Ireland until his death in 1629.

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Lodovico Zacconi

Italian composer and theorist
Born
June 11th, 1555 469 years ago
Died
1627 398 years ago — 72 years old

A key figure in Renaissance music, contributed significantly to music theory and composition. Authored 'Prattica di musica', which served as a foundational text in music instruction. Composed various works primarily for keyboard instruments, emphasizing counterpoint and harmony. Worked primarily in Italy, influencing other composers throughout the period.

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Giovanni Antonio Magini

Italian mathematician and cartographer
Born
June 13th, 1555 469 years ago
Died
1617 408 years ago — 62 years old

Born in 1555, contributions included advancements in mathematics, cartography, and astronomy. Produced crucial astronomical tables and maps for navigation and exploration. His work on the geographic mapping of various regions provided essential information during a time of exploration. His theoretical work enhanced the understanding of geometrical principles and planetary movements.

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People Who Died in 1555 (View all 25)

Jacques Dubois

French anatomist and author of texts
Born
1478 547 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1555 470 years ago — 77 years old

Anatomical studies contributed to the understanding of human anatomy during the Renaissance. Wrote significant anatomical texts that influenced future medical education. Served as a lecturer at the University of Paris, where dissections were performed to enhance learning. Works included detailed descriptions of bones, muscles, and organs, which laid the groundwork for future anatomists.

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John Rogers

Minister and physician of early America
Born
January 11th, 1630 395 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1555 470 years ago — -75 years old

Born in England and later relocating to America, served as a minister, physician, and academic. Contributed significantly to the early development of religious and medical practices in the new world. Played a pivotal role in both community leadership and education, impacting various aspects of colonial life. Engaged with several prominent figures of the time and worked to establish institutions that supported the growth of knowledge in the community. His writings and teachings influenced future generations in both ministry and medicine.

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Rowland Taylor

English priest and martyr
Born
October 6th, 1510 514 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1555 470 years ago — 44 years old

Rowland Taylor served as a priest during the 16th century, advocating for Protestant reforms within the Church of England. His clerical career was marked by his unwavering commitment to his faith despite the rising tension surrounding religious practices of the time. Taylor was arrested in 1555 for his beliefs and subsequently became a martyr when executed for heresy. His resolute stance against Catholic doctrine and his ultimate sacrifice made him a prominent figure in the history of the Protestant Reformation in England.

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John Hooper

English bishop and martyr
Born
1495 530 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1555 470 years ago — 60 years old

Served as Bishop of Gloucester and Worcester during the English Reformation. Promoted Protestant reforms and opposed Catholic practices within the church. Imprisoned under Queen Mary I for refusing to conform to Catholicism. Executed by burning at the stake in 1555, becoming a martyr of the Protestant faith. His writings contributed to the discussions surrounding church practices and the role of bishops during a tumultuous period in English history.

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Julius III

Pope and religious leader in the 16th century
Born
1487 538 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1555 469 years ago — 68 years old

Served as pope from 1550 until death in 1555. His papacy was marked by efforts to implement the reforms of the Council of Trent and fostered the Counter-Reformation. Engaged in various construction projects in Rome, including the renovation of St. Peter's Basilica. Promoted the Jesuit order and supported religious art and education during this period.

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Joanna

Princess of Portugal
Born
February 6th, 1452 573 years ago
Died
April 12th, 1555 469 years ago — 103 years old

Born in 1452, a prominent nobility figure, she was the daughter of King Afonso V of Portugal. Married to King Manuel I of Portugal, contributed to the unification of Portugal through royal alliances. Her life was marked by the political reconfigurations of the Iberian Peninsula. Despite personal challenges, she played a significant role in the court and supported her husband in governance. Passed away in 1490, leaving a legacy tied to the Portuguese monarchy.

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