What Happened This Year 1563

People Who Died in 1563

Menas of Ethiopia

Ethiopian Orthodox saint and martyr
Died
February 1st, 1563 462 years ago — None years old

Menas of Ethiopia served as a prominent figure in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. Adopting a life of devotion, he dedicated years to the monastic life and ascetic practices. His martyrdom occurred during the reign of the Emperor Menas in the 16th century, where he was executed for his faith. He is celebrated for his piety and commitment to Christianity, which inspired many followers. The veneration of Menas contributed to the religious heritage of Ethiopia, leaving a lasting legacy in the Christian community.

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Francis, Duke of Guise

French military leader
Born
1519 506 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1563 462 years ago — 44 years old

A significant figure in the French Wars of Religion, played a pivotal role in the conflicts between Catholics and Huguenots. Francis commanded the royal troops at the siege of Orleans in 1562. His leadership and military strategies in battle helped to assert Catholic dominance in France during a tumultuous period.

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Heinrich Glarean

Swiss poet and music theorist
Born
1488 537 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1563 461 years ago — 75 years old

Active during the Renaissance, contributions included influential theories on music and poetry. Authored 'Dodecachordon', a significant work in music theory that expanded the understanding of musical modes and harmonics. Engaged with leading Renaissance scholars and composers, shaping musical education.

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Martynas Mažvydas

Lithuanian writer and printer
Born
1510 515 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1563 461 years ago — 53 years old

A key figure in Lithuanian literature, Marzvydas was the first person to publish a book in the Lithuanian language, titled "Katekizmas" in 1547. This work served as a catechism and laid the foundation for Lithuanian literary culture. He worked as a pastor and educator, promoting the use of the Lithuanian language in religious and educational contexts. His contributions were instrumental in the development of Lithuanian literary tradition during the Renaissance period.

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William Paget

English politician and Chancellor
Born
1506 519 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1563 461 years ago — 57 years old

Served as a prominent English accountant and politician during the Tudor period. Appointed as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, overseeing lands and revenues. Held the title of 1st Baron Paget, contributing to the governance of England. Involved in significant legislative work and was a key advisor to several monarchs. Played a crucial role in the administrative and political landscape of his time.

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Étienne de La Boétie

French philosopher and judge
Born
November 1st, 1530 494 years ago
Died
August 18th, 1563 461 years ago — 32 years old

Born in 1530, a notable philosopher and judge from France, contributed significantly to political philosophy. Authored 'Discours de la servitude volontaire', analyzing the nature of tyranny and the dynamics of power in society. Educated in law, held a position in the parlement of Bordeaux, where legal and philosophical ideas were fused. His insights into voluntary servitude inspired later thinkers and movements, becoming a foundational text in the study of freedom and resistance.

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Henry Manners

Earl of Rutland, English soldier
Born
1526 499 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1563 461 years ago — 37 years old

The 2nd Earl of Rutland served in military roles during the Tudor period. Associated with England, he played a significant part in the defense of the realm during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. He held positions of power and was part of the noble class, contributing to the military strategies of that time. In addition to military engagements, he managed lands and took part in the political affairs of the era.

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Sebastian Castellio

French theologian and religious reformer
Born
1515 510 years ago
Died
December 29th, 1563 461 years ago — 48 years old

A French preacher and theologian engaged in the Protestant Reformation, Castellio advocated for religious tolerance and freedom of conscience. He studied under John Calvin in Geneva and initially supported Calvin's doctrine. However, Castellio later disagreed with the harsh measures taken against heretics. He translated the Bible into French and emphasized the need for a compassionate understanding of different beliefs. His writings sought to promote peace and dialogue among various religious factions. His most notable work, "De Haeretico Comburendo," argued against the execution of heretics, marking a significant shift in the approach to religious dissent at the time.

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Francis

French Grand Chamberlain of the King
Born
February 17th, 1519 506 years ago
Died
November 27th, 1620 404 years ago — 101 years old

Served as Grand Chamberlain in the court of King Francis I of France during the 16th century. Managed the royal household and oversaw various ceremonial functions. Played a key role in the administration of the court and contributed to the organization of state events and royal ceremonies. Worked to maintain the prestige and order of the royal household amidst the complexities of court politics.

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