What Happened This Year 1555

People Who Died in 1555

John Bradford

English Reformer, Prebendary of St. Paul's
Born
1510 515 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1555 469 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent English reformer and cleric during the Reformation, served as prebendary at St. Paul's Cathedral. Engaged deeply with theological debates of the time, contributed significantly to the Protestant movement in England. Arrested for opposing Catholic practices, faced martyrdom under Queen Mary I. The writings and sermons during the reformation period reflected a commitment to reform and religious liberty.

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Oronce Finé

Mathematician and Cartographer
Born
December 20th, 1494 530 years ago
Died
August 8th, 1555 469 years ago — 60 years old

A French mathematician and cartographer contributed significantly to the development of mathematical geography. He produced notable maps that advanced the field of cartography during the Renaissance. His work included innovative projections and the use of mathematics in map-making. He also authored several texts that outlined mathematical principles and techniques. His contributions laid the groundwork for future developments in both mathematics and geography.

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Saint Thomas of Villanueva

Spanish bishop and saint
Born
1488 537 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1555 469 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the Archbishop of Valencia from 1544 until death in 1555. Focused on the pastoral care of the poor and disadvantaged. Known for a life of humility and charity, founded several institutions aimed at aiding those in need. Became recognized for sermons that emphasized repentance and community service.

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Justus Jonas

German priest and academic figure
Born
June 5th, 1493 531 years ago
Died
October 9th, 1555 469 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent figure of the Protestant Reformation, he served as a close associate of Martin Luther. Earning degrees from the University of Wittenberg, he became a key academic and religious leader. Jonas played a significant role in the translation of the New Testament into German. He also authored various texts that contributed to Lutheran theology and education. His involvement in the establishment of the Lutheran Church marked a crucial period in religious history.

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Hugh Latimer

Bishop and martyr of the English Reformation
Born
1487 538 years ago
Died
October 16th, 1555 469 years ago — 68 years old

A prominent figure in the English Reformation, served as the Bishop of Worcester. Latimer became well known for his powerful sermons advocating for reform and was a supporter of Protestantism. During the reign of Queen Mary I, he was imprisoned for his beliefs. Latimer was burned at the stake for heresy, and his death garnered attention for the Protestant cause. His final words are remembered for their faith and resolve.

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Olympia Fulvia Morata

Italian-German scholar and educator
Born
1526 499 years ago
Died
October 26th, 1555 469 years ago — 29 years old

A prominent scholar and educator of the Renaissance, contributed to humanist education and literature. Engaged in the study of classical texts and theological writings. Excelled in Latin and Greek, influencing the educational landscape of her time. Spent her life advocating for the education of women and the importance of humanist ideals.

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Stephen Gardiner

English bishop and Secretary of State
Born
1497 528 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1555 469 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent English bishop and politician, guided the religious and political landscape during the reign of King Henry VIII. Served as Bishop of Winchester from 1531 and played a significant role in the establishment of the Church of England. Held the position of Secretary of State under King Edward VI, navigating the complexities of Tudor politics. After the accession of Mary I, led efforts to restore Catholicism in England, becoming a key figure in the Marian persecutions. His influence persisted until his death in 1555.

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Yang Jisheng

Ming dynasty official and Confucian martyr
Born
June 16th, 1516 508 years ago
Died
November 12th, 1555 469 years ago — 39 years old

Yang Jisheng served as an official during the Ming dynasty, focusing on governance and Confucian principles. His commitment to integrity and ethical administration led to conflicts with corrupt officials. Yang's steadfast adherence to Confucian ideals resulted in his martyrdom, symbolizing resistance against moral decay in governance. His writings and actions have been discussed in the context of Confucian thought and moral philosophy.

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Georgius Agricola

Mineralogist; author of 'De re metallica'
Born
March 24th, 1494 530 years ago
Died
November 21st, 1555 469 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent mineralogist and scholar, contributions to the field of mining and metallurgy were significant. Authored 'De re metallica', a comprehensive work detailing mining processes, metals, and their properties. This influential book served as a standard reference for the field well into the 17th century. Engaged in studies that combined observation and experimental methods, laying groundwork for modern geology.

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