What Happened This Year 1556

People Who Died in 1556

Thomas Cranmer

Archbishop of Canterbury and Reformer
Born
July 2nd, 1489 535 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1556 468 years ago — 66 years old

An English archbishop and theologian, played a significant role in the English Reformation. As the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1533 to 1556, contributed to the development of the Church of England. Authored the Book of Common Prayer, which became a foundational text for Anglican worship. Conducted the marriage of King Henry VIII to Anne Boleyn, a pivotal moment in English ecclesiastical history. Captured during the Marian persecution, faced execution for heresy in 1556 after refusing to retract his Protestant beliefs.

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Luigi Alamanni

Italian poet and diplomat
Born
March 6th, 1495 530 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1556 468 years ago — 61 years old

Born in Florence, this individual became a notable poet and an influential diplomat during the Renaissance. Associated with the literary and cultural movements of the time, he established a reputation through his poetry, which often contained themes of love and nature. In addition to poetry, held diplomatic roles that strengthened ties between various city-states. His works contributed to the Italian Renaissance literature and were appreciated during his lifetime and beyond.

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Saitō Dōsan

Japanese samurai and warlord
Born
1494 531 years ago
Died
May 28th, 1556 468 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent samurai and warlord in the 16th century, played a significant role in the Sengoku period of Japan. Established a powerful base in Mino Province. Aligned with influential clans and engaged in multiple military campaigns to expand territorial control. His leadership cultivated notable alliances and fortified defenses against rival factions, contributing to shifting power dynamics during the era. Eventually faced defeat, leading to the decline of his stronghold.

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Ignatius of Loyola

Spanish priest and founder of Jesuits
Born
1491 534 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1556 468 years ago — 65 years old

Ignatius of Loyola, a Spanish priest and theologian, founded the Society of Jesus in 1534. After experiencing a profound spiritual awakening, he dedicated his life to religious service and education. His spiritual exercises emphasized personal reflection and discernment. In 1540, the Society of Jesus received approval from Pope Paul III, focusing on education, missionary work, and spiritual development. Ignatius served as the first Superior General of the Jesuits until his death in 1556. His writings and teachings significantly shaped Catholic spirituality and education.

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Pietro Aretino

Italian author and playwright
Born
1492 533 years ago
Died
October 21st, 1556 468 years ago — 64 years old

Aretino was an Italian author and playwright during the Renaissance. He gained prominence for his sharp satirical works and writings on social issues of the time. His literary career encompassed poetry, plays, and a notable series of letters, which contributed to the development of Italian literature. Aretino often engaged with political and cultural figures, reflecting the complexities of the society he lived in. His works demonstrated a keen awareness of Renaissance humanism and its implications on personal and societal behavior.

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Richard Chancellor

English explorer and navigator
Died
November 10th, 1556 468 years ago — None years old

An English explorer and navigator in the 16th century. Notable for leading an expedition that sought a northeast passage to Asia. He established relations with the Russian Tsardom, becoming one of the first Englishmen to do so. Chancellor played a critical role in promoting trade between England and Russia, laying the foundation for future commercial ties. His journey contributed to the understanding of Arctic navigation and Russian geography.

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Giovanni della Casa

Italian author and poet with notable works
Born
June 28th, 1503 521 years ago
Died
November 14th, 1556 468 years ago — 53 years old

Born in Italy, an author and poet made significant contributions to literature during the Renaissance period. A major work includes the didactic poem 'Il Galateo', which outlined social etiquette and behavior for the aristocracy. This work has been influential in shaping norms regarding manners and decorum in Italian society. Besides literature, also served as a bishop and played a role in religious and political discussions of the time.

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John Gage

English courtier and landowner
Born
October 28th, 1479 545 years ago
Died
1556 469 years ago — 77 years old

Served as a courtier in the royal court of England during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. Held the position of the chief gentleman of the privy chamber under King Henry VIII. Noted for his significant role in the management of royal properties and his political influence at court. Actively involved in local governance and contributed to the development of regional estates.

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Giovanni Poggio

Italian cardinal and diplomat
Born
January 21st, 1493 532 years ago
Died
1556 469 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1493, served as a cardinal and held various diplomatic roles within the Catholic Church. Played a significant role in the governance of the church during the Renaissance period. Participated in multiple councils and negotiations that shaped church policies and relations with other states. Contributed to the advancement of education and church reforms, reflecting the complexities of the time.

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