What Happened This Year 1568

Historical Events from This Year 1568 (View all 10)

Politics & Government

Edict of Torda Promotes Religious Tolerance

January 28th, 1568 457 years ago

The Edict of Torda was a crucial legal decree issued by John Sigismund Zápolya, the ruler of the Eastern Hungarian Kingdom, establishing religious tolerance among various Christian denominations. This landmark legislation, promulgated in a time of significant religious strife, specifically prohibited the persecution of individuals based on their religious beliefs. It was a pioneering move towards recognizing the coexistence of different Christian sects, including Catholics, Lutherans, and Unitarians, laying a foundation for a more pluralistic society.

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Politics & Government

Peace of Longjumeau Ends Phase of Religious War

March 23rd, 1568 456 years ago

The Peace of Longjumeau marked a pivotal moment in the French Wars of Religion, concluding the second phase of a brutal conflict between Catholics and Huguenots. Signed by King Charles IX and leaders of the Protestant faction, this treaty aimed to restore some level of calm and coexistence within France. Following a series of violent confrontations, including the Battle of Jarnac, this treaty offered provisions for the Huguenots, granting them access to certain fortified towns. Despite mixed reactions and its precarious nature, this agreement provided a temporary respite from decades of religious strife, though peace would ultimately prove elusive in the long term.

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Politics & Government

Mary, Queen of Scots, escapes Lochleven Castle

May 2nd, 1568 456 years ago

Mary, Queen of Scots, made a daring escape from Lochleven Castle, where she was imprisoned by supporters of the Protestant Reformation. She fled with the assistance of local supporters on May 2, 1568, using a small boat to cross the loch. This bold act of defiance was driven by her desire to regain her throne in Scotland and was a pivotal moment in her tumultuous life. Her escape ignited a series of events that would further entrench the religious and political strife in Scotland.

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Military & Warfare

French Force Attacks San Mateo Fort

May 3rd, 1568 456 years ago

In a response to Spanish military aggression, a French force launched a surprise attack on Fort San Mateo. Frustrated by the recent brutal onslaught of Spanish troops at nearby Fort Caroline, the French forces, estimated to be several hundred strong, set fire to San Mateo fortification and went on to massacre hundreds of Spaniards. This event showcased the intensity of the conflict between the French and Spanish in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Mary, Queen of Scots, Defeated at Langside

May 13th, 1568 456 years ago

The Battle of Langside marked a critical turning point in the conflict between Mary, Queen of Scots, and the forces supporting her son, James VI. On May 13, a fierce engagement took place near Glasgow, Scotland, where Mary's army clashed with the troops loyal to her half-brother, James Stewart, Earl of Moray. The defeat forced Mary to flee further into England, leading to her eventual imprisonment. The battle symbolized the growing division in Scotland between royal factions, significantly impacting Mary's reign and the future of the Scottish monarchy.

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Politics & Government

Mary, Queen of Scots, flees to England

May 16th, 1568 456 years ago

In search of safety and support, Mary, Queen of Scots, fled to England after being defeated in the Battle of Langside. Mary sought refuge with her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I, following her exile from Scotland due to political unrest and rivalry. The circumstances leading to her flight involved intense power struggles and efforts to reclaim her throne amidst a turbulent political landscape.

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Born in 1568 (View all 11)

Honoré d'Urfé

French author of pastoral romance
Born
February 11th, 1568 457 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1625 399 years ago — 57 years old

An author and playwright, this individual was a leading figure in the development of French literature during the early 17th century. The most notable work, 'L'Astrée,' was published in several volumes from 1607 to 1627. This pastoral novel significantly influenced the genre and inspired numerous later writers. The story is centered around the love tale of Astrée and Celadon, set against the backdrop of the Auvergne region and featuring idealized characters and themes of love and pastoral life.

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Aloysius Gonzaga

Italian saint and Jesuit novice
Born
March 9th, 1568 457 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1591 433 years ago — 23 years old

Aloysius Gonzaga joined the Society of Jesus and became a novice at the age of 17. He dedicated his life to religious service and education, displaying deep piety and commitment to the Catholic faith. He is often associated with selfless acts of service, particularly in caring for victims of the plague in Rome. His life was marked by a strong sense of morality and dedication to the teachings of Jesus. Gonzaga died at a young age but was recognized for his virtue and ultimately canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church.

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Pope Urban VIII

Pope and patron of Baroque art
Born
April 5th, 1568 456 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1644 380 years ago — 76 years old

Served as Pope from 1623 to 1644. Oversaw a period marked by significant artistic achievement and the consolidation of papal power. Urban VIII initiated numerous architectural projects in Rome, including the completion of St. Peter's Basilica, and his papacy is often associated with the flourishing of Baroque art, influencing artists such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini. He also formulated policies in response to the Thirty Years' War, which affected Europe during his tenure.

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Anna Vasa of Sweden

Polish and Swedish princess
Born
May 17th, 1568 456 years ago
Died
February 26th, 1625 400 years ago — 56 years old

Born into the Vasa dynasty, this individual played a significant role in Swedish history through a strategic marital alliance. Marriage to John III of Sweden strengthened ties between Sweden and Poland. This figure had a notable influence on the Swedish court and participated in political affairs. As a queen consort, oversaw various ceremonial and diplomatic activities, shaping cultural and political exchanges between the two nations. The legacy includes contributions to the continuation of the Vasa lineage and the promotion of Catholicism in Sweden.

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Virginia de' Medici

Italian princess and noble figure
Born
May 29th, 1568 456 years ago
Died
1615 410 years ago — 47 years old

Born into the illustrious Medici family, Virginia de' Medici held an influential position in the Italian nobility during the late 16th century. She was the daughter of Francesco I de' Medici, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and Christine of Lorraine. The family was pivotal in the political and cultural life of Tuscany and accounted for significant patronage of the arts. Virginia's marriage solidified alliances within the aristocracy, furthering the family's legacy. Throughout her life, she navigated the complexities of court politics and was involved in maintaining the family's influence in a tumultuous period marked by power struggles among noble families in Italy.

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Gunilla Bielke

Queen of Sweden
Born
June 25th, 1568 456 years ago
Died
1597 428 years ago — 29 years old

Born on June 25, 1568, Gunilla Bielke served as Queen of Sweden through her marriage to King Charles IX. She became an influential figure at the Swedish court and participated in various royal functions and duties. The reign of her husband saw the consolidation of royal power within Sweden, and she played a supportive role in the political developments of the time.

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People Who Died in 1568 (View all 15)

Nicolaus Olahus

Romanian Archbishop and Humanist
Born
1493 532 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1568 457 years ago — 75 years old

Served as the Archbishop of Esztergom and was a key figure in the Renaissance in Hungary. Contributed to the spread of humanism in Central Europe. Advocated for educational reforms and promoted the establishment of schools. Engaged in significant correspondence with various European intellectuals and contributed to theological debates of the time.

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Myles Coverdale

Bishop and Bible translator
Born
1488 537 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1568 457 years ago — 80 years old

An English bishop and translator, contributed significantly to the translation of the Bible into English. Published the first complete printed English Bible in 1535, known as the Coverdale Bible. Served as Bishop of Exeter and continued to work on various English translations throughout his life. His efforts laid the groundwork for future translations, including the King James Version.

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Elizabeth Seymour

English noblewoman, Lady Cromwell
Died
March 19th, 1568 456 years ago — None years old

Elizabeth Seymour was an English noblewoman born around 1518. She was the daughter of Sir John Seymour and Margery Wentworth. Elizabeth married Thomas Cromwell, an influential statesman, and played a significant role in his household. After Cromwell's execution in 1540, Elizabeth navigated the tumultuous political landscape of the court of Henry VIII. Subsequently, she married again, this time to a member of the nobility, further consolidating her family's status. Elizabeth's life spanned a period marked by political intrigue and the Reformation, where she was connected to various important figures in Tudor politics. Elizabeth died on March 19, 1568.

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Albert

Duke of Prussia
Born
May 17th, 1490 534 years ago
Died
March 20th, 1568 456 years ago — 77 years old

Held the title of Duke of Prussia from 1525 until his death in 1568. Founded the Duchy of Prussia, which marked the establishment of a Protestant state. Oversaw the transition from a monastic state under the Teutonic Knights to a secular duchy. Engaged in political and military affairs during the Reformation period.

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Lamoral

Count of Egmont, noble statesman
Born
November 18th, 1522 502 years ago
Died
June 5th, 1568 456 years ago — 45 years old

A prominent noble and statesman in the Netherlands, played a significant role in the political landscape during the Eighty Years' War. Served as a leading figure opposing Spanish rule under King Philip II. Involved in the resistance against the Spanish Inquisition, advocating for religious tolerance and autonomy in the Low Countries. Actively engaged in the political affairs of the Netherlands, gaining recognition for his leadership. Executed in 1568, which galvanized support for the Dutch revolt.

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William Turner

British ornithologist and botanist
Born
1508 517 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1568 456 years ago — 60 years old

Contributions to ornithology and botany began with extensive observations and writings. Authored 'The Names of Birds' and 'Herball', presenting descriptions of numerous species and plants. Worked in the realm of natural history, significantly influencing the study of flora and fauna. Held the position of a physician, combining medical knowledge with naturalistic studies.

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