What Happened This Year 1559

Historical Events from This Year 1559

Politics & Government

Coronation of Elizabeth I in Westminster Abbey

January 15th, 1559 466 years ago

Elizabeth I was crowned as the Queen of England and Ireland in Westminster Abbey. The ceremony was steeped in tradition, utilizing a mix of Anglican and Catholic rituals. Notable figures such as William Cecil played crucial roles in the proceedings, highlighting Elizabeth's strong political foundation. This event marked the beginning of her long and influential reign.

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Politics & Government

Signing of the Peace of Cateau-Cambrésis Treaty

April 3rd, 1559 465 years ago

The Peace of Cateau-Cambrésis was concluded in 1559, marking the end of the prolonged Italian Wars that had embroiled several European powers, particularly France and Spain. Among the key stipulations was Spain's dominance over the Italian territories they had captured. The treaty required the signatories to cede territorial claims and recognize established borders. Negotiations had taken numerous years, and the final agreement was signed in the town of Cateau-Cambrésis in France, aiming to establish a long-lasting peace after decades of conflict.

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Religion & Philosophy

John Knox Leads the Scottish Reformation Movement

May 2nd, 1559 465 years ago

John Knox returned to Scotland from exile, emphasizing the need for Protestant reforms. His arrival marked a pivotal moment in the Scottish Reformation as he began to rally support against Catholic practices and leadership. Knox's strong sermons and advocacy for a reformed church resonated with many Scots seeking change. This resurgence was characterized by a blend of religious fervor and political challenges facing the Catholic establishment during this period of upheaval.

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Exploration & Discovery

Don Tristan de Luna's Expedition to Florida

June 11th, 1559 465 years ago

Don Tristan de Luna y Arellano embarked on a major expedition to the Gulf Coast of Florida with 1,500 settlers from Vera Cruz, Mexico. This was a significant undertaking, aiming to establish a permanent Spanish settlement in North America during a time when Spain was expanding its territories. The fleet consisted of multiple ships loaded with supplies and provisions necessary for sustaining the new colony and its inhabitants. Luna's ambition was to establish a foothold that could strengthen Spanish claims in the region, fostering exploration and colonization efforts.

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Sports & Recreation

King Henry II mortally wounded in joust

June 30th, 1559 465 years ago

King Henry II of France was mortally injured during a jousting match against Gabriel, comte de Montgomery. The accident occurred at the tournament held to celebrate the marriage of his daughter, Elizabeth de Valois, to King Philip II of Spain. A lance splintered upon impact, piercing Henry's eye, which ultimately led to his demise. The event took place in Paris, showcasing both the thrill and danger of jousting, a popular spectacle of the time.

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Religion & Philosophy

Arrest of Bartolomé Carranza for Heresy

August 22nd, 1559 465 years ago

Bartolomé Carranza, an influential Spanish archbishop, was arrested for heresy by the Inquisition in 1559. He was accused of holding Protestant sympathies and questioned regarding his theological positions. Carranza's arrest took place in Valladolid, Spain, amid a rising tide of religious scrutiny during the Counter-Reformation. His imprisonment highlighted the contentious nature of theological debates in this era and the fierce opposition to perceived heretical views.

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Born in 1559 (View all 10)

Isaac Casaubon

Swiss philologist and scholar of texts
Born
February 18th, 1559 466 years ago
Died
July 1st, 1614 410 years ago — 55 years old

Integral in the field of philology, engaged in the rigorous analysis of ancient texts. Contributed extensively to the understanding of classical literature and language. Emphasized the importance of textual criticism and its methodological approaches. Held a prestigious chair in the study of Greek and Latin at the University of Geneva. Made significant contributions to studies on Aristotle and the works of other ancient philosophers, establishing foundational principles for subsequent scholarship.

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Amar Singh I

Ruler of Mewar, known for his legacy
Born
March 16th, 1559 465 years ago
Died
January 26th, 1620 405 years ago — 60 years old

Ascended to the throne of Mewar in 1597 and ruled until 1620. Strengthened Mewar’s position against Mughal influence. Engaged in military campaigns to protect the kingdom's independence, building alliances with surrounding regions. Contributed to the cultural richness of the region during his reign, promoting arts and architecture, including the development within Udaipur.

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Alice Spencer

English noblewoman and courtier
Born
May 4th, 1559 465 years ago
Died
1637 388 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1559, Alice Spencer became a prominent English noblewoman and courtier. She held the title of Countess of Sunderland through her marriage to Henry Frederick, the 5th Earl of Sunderland. Alice was part of the Elizabethan court and often engaged in political and social activities of her time. Her family connections included ties to influential figures in England, contributing to her prominence in noble circles. Alice Spencer's life reflected the complexities of noble status and the political landscape of the late 16th century.

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Lawrence of Brindisi

Italian priest and canonized saint
Born
July 22nd, 1559 465 years ago
Died
July 22nd, 1619 405 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1559, contributed significantly to the Capuchin Order and served as a diplomat and preacher. Played a vital role during the Counter-Reformation, advocating for the Catholic Church and its doctrines. Engaged in theological debates and established missions to spread Catholicism across Europe. His writings include sermons, biblical commentaries, and works on theology. Canonized in 1881 by Pope Leo XIII, he is recognized within the Catholic Church as a saint and a Doctor of the Church.

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Cigoli

Italian painter and architect
Born
September 21st, 1559 465 years ago
Died
1613 412 years ago — 54 years old

A prominent figure of the late Renaissance, contributions included significant works in painting and architecture. Engaged in various projects, combined classical elements with innovative techniques. Influenced by contemporaries and integrated their styles into own work. Key contributions made to the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore and the Church of San Giovanni Battista. Recognized for the ability to merge naturalism with spiritual themes.

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Jacques Sirmond

French Jesuit Scholar and Theologian
Born
October 12th, 1559 465 years ago
Died
October 7th, 1651 373 years ago — 91 years old

Sirmond contributed significantly to the study of patristics and developed a keen interest in the works of early Church Fathers. Following a Jesuit education, he became a prominent scholar, engaged in theological debates of his time. He authored several works that examined and criticized Protestantism, highlighting theological positions of the Catholic Church. His efforts in academia led to the establishment of key theological principles that shaped Jesuit teaching. Additionally, Sirmond focused on editing texts of early Christian writers, ensuring their preservation and accessibility for future scholars. His works remain a reference for theological study even today.

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People Who Died in 1559 (View all 16)

Christian III

King of Denmark and Norway, Reformer
Born
1503 522 years ago
Died
January 1st, 1559 466 years ago — 56 years old

Ruled as king of Denmark and Norway from 1534 until death in 1559. Oversaw the Lutheran Reformation in Denmark, playing a significant role in establishing Protestantism as the dominant religion in the country. Introduced policies that promoted trade and economic development. Also known for reforming the administrative structure of the kingdom. His reign contributed to the establishment of a centralized state.

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Christian II of Denmark

King of Denmark and Norway, 1523-1531
Born
July 1st, 1481 543 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1559 466 years ago — 77 years old

Ruled Denmark and Norway during a tumultuous period characterized by political unrest and conflict. Initiated several reforms aimed at strengthening royal authority and expanding trade. Faced opposition from the nobility and experienced a notable conflict known as the Count's Feud. Lost the throne to Frederick I in 1523 but briefly regained power in Norway. Lost his final political struggle, leading to a long exile in Sweden. Died in captivity, with his legacy connected to the struggles between the monarchy and nobility.

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Anthony St. Leger

English-Irish politician Lord Deputy
Born
1496 529 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1559 465 years ago — 63 years old

Served as Lord Deputy of Ireland during the reign of Henry VIII. Held office from 1540 to 1556, overseeing the administration of English law in Ireland. Managed relations with Irish chieftains and worked to implement policies aimed at integrating Ireland into the English realm. Engaged in military campaigns to solidify English control and reduce resistance from local leaders.

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Gelawdewos

Ethiopian emperor during the 16th century
Born
1521 504 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1559 465 years ago — 38 years old

Ruled as the emperor of Ethiopia from 1540 until death in 1559. Focused on strengthening the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and building relations with foreign powers. Sought to defend the kingdom against external threats such as the Ottoman Empire and local rivalries. Extended military campaigns to maintain control over territories and subjected regions. His reign was marked by conflicts, including battles against Portuguese forces and Somali incursions.

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Adam Ries

Mathematician and academic
Born
1492 533 years ago
Died
March 30th, 1559 465 years ago — 67 years old

A significant figure in the development of arithmetic, contributed extensively to the field through written works. Published textbooks that standardized arithmetic practices in Europe. His most renowned work, 'Rechenbüch,' introduced practical arithmetic methods and was widely used for teaching purposes. Served as a mathematics instructor and influenced educational practices. Played a crucial role in popularizing the use of Hindu-Arabic numerals in Germany.

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Pope Paul IV

Papacy and Roman Catholic reforms
Born
June 28th, 1476 548 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1559 465 years ago — 83 years old

Served as Pope from 1555 to 1559, implementing significant reforms within the Roman Catholic Church. Established the Roman Inquisition to combat heresy, reinforcing doctrinal authority. Contributed to the creation of the Index Librorum Prohibitorum, a list of prohibited books aimed at protecting the faith from corruption. Promoted the introduction of the Jewish ghetto in Rome, enforcing segregation of the Jewish population.

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