What Happened This Year 1572

Historical Events from This Year 1572 (View all 7)

Politics & Government

Duke of Norfolk Convicted of Treason

January 16th, 1572 453 years ago

Thomas Howard, the 4th Duke of Norfolk, faced trial for his involvement in the Ridolfi Plot, a conspiracy aimed at restoring Catholicism in England. This plot sought to assassinate Queen Elizabeth I and place Mary, Queen of Scots, on the throne. Ultimately, Howard was found guilty of treason due to his substantial participation in this plan, leading to his execution later. The trial underscored the tensions between Protestant England and Catholic factions.

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Military & Warfare

Watergeuzen Capture Brielle, First Dutch Foothold

April 1st, 1572 452 years ago

The Watergeuzen, a group of Sea Beggars, captured Brielle from Spanish forces, marking a significant early success for the Dutch in their struggle for independence from Spanish rule. This victory provided a critical foothold in the Seventeen Provinces and galvanized support for the revolt against Spanish occupation, significantly shifting the momentum in favor of the Dutch Republic’s aspirations.

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Religion & Philosophy

Martyrdom of Nineteen Catholics in Gorkum

July 9th, 1572 452 years ago

In the Dutch town of Gorkum, nineteen Catholics were captured and suffered martyrdom for their unwavering dedication to their faith. They were victims of the religious conflicts stemming from the Protestant Reformation, specifically during the Eighty Years' War. Despite facing torture and execution, these individuals stood firm in their beliefs. Their deaths occurred as a form of execution by drowning, which was both a punishment for their faith and a statement against Catholicism.

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Politics & Government

Marriage of Henry III of Navarre and Margaret of Valois

August 18th, 1572 452 years ago

Henry III of Navarre wed Catholic Margaret of Valois in an effort to bridge the divide between Protestant and Catholic factions in France. The marriage took place amidst the backdrop of ongoing religious strife and was hailed as a potential resolution to the conflicts that plagued the nation. It occurred in Paris, emphasizing the hope for peace in an era of unrest.

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Religion & Philosophy

St. Bartholomew's Day Massacre of Huguenots

August 23rd, 1572 452 years ago

In Paris, thousands of Huguenots faced mob violence during the St. Bartholomew's Day massacre. Conflict between Catholics and Protestants dramatically escalated, marked by a coordinated attack led by mobs and supported by French authorities targeting the Protestant population gathered for a wedding. This violent outburst resulted in significant casualties, deepening the rift between the two religious groups in France.

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Military & Warfare

Spanish Forces Navigate Waters to Relieve Goes

October 20th, 1572 452 years ago

In a daring military maneuver, three thousand Spanish soldiers successfully waded through fifteen miles of water during the night to relieve the besieged city of Goes in the Netherlands. Facing adverse weather conditions and high tides, the troops executed this daunting task with precision, moving covertly across the flooded grounds. Their arrival bolstered the defenses of Goes and marked a significant moment in the ongoing conflict between the Spanish Crown and the Dutch rebels, showcasing the determination of the Spanish forces to regain control over the region.

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Born in 1572 (View all 15)

Edward Cecil

1st Viscount Wimbledon, military leader
Born
February 29th, 1572 453 years ago
Died
1638 387 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1572, the 1st Viscount Wimbledon served as a military leader during the reign of King James I. He gained recognition for his role in several military campaigns, notably during the Anglo-Spanish War. His strategic leadership was exemplified during the Siege of Ostend, where he played a pivotal role in the defense and tactics employed. He was appointed Governor of the Isle of Wight and held various positions in the military administration. Additionally, he held the rank of Colonel during his service in the English army.

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Adam Tanner

Austrian mathematician and philosopher
Born
April 14th, 1572 452 years ago
Died
May 25th, 1632 392 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1572, a mathematician and philosopher contributed significantly to the fields of mathematics and logic. Held a professorship in mathematics at the University of Vienna. Published works on mathematical theories and explored the connections between mathematics and philosophy. Engaged in discussions of metaphysics and ethics, influencing educational approaches of the time.

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Ben Jonson

Playwright of 'Volpone' and 'The Alchemist'
Born
June 11th, 1572 452 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1637 387 years ago — 65 years old

An influential English playwright and poet, this figure was a prominent member of the theatrical community during the early 17th century. He established himself as a significant literary voice with the publication of 'Volpone' in 1605 and the comedy 'The Alchemist' in 1610, both regarded as pivotal works in English drama. In an era marked by the works of contemporaries such as William Shakespeare, the individual achieved recognition for a distinctive blend of humor and critique within the framework of satire. Additionally, the figure served as a poet and critic, contributing to the literary culture of the time through various writings and plays, thereby shaping the evolution of English theater.

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Fakhr-al-Din II

Ottoman prince and governor of Lebanon
Born
August 6th, 1572 452 years ago
Died
April 13th, 1635 389 years ago — 62 years old

Served as the governor of Mount Lebanon during the early 17th century. Played a pivotal role in the administration and protection of the region, particularly during times of internal strife and external threats. Engaged in conflicts with both local rivals and the Ottoman authorities, seeking greater autonomy for Lebanon. Established alliances with European powers, notably France, to bolster his rule. His tenure was marked by efforts to fortify his domain against challenges from the Ottoman Empire.

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Daniyal

Imperial Prince of the Royal House of Timur
Born
September 11th, 1572 452 years ago
Died
1604 421 years ago — 32 years old

Born into the Royal House of Timur, served as an imperial prince. Daniyal's lineage traced back to the conqueror Tamerlane. Involved in the political and military affairs of the Timurid Empire, was part of significant historical events during the late 16th century. Contributed to the continuation of Timurid culture and governance.

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Marie Elisabeth of France

French princess, supporter of Huguenots
Born
October 27th, 1572 452 years ago
Died
1578 447 years ago — 6 years old

Born in 1572, Marie Elisabeth of France was a daughter of Henry IV of France and his first wife, Marguerite de Valois. She was raised in a politically charged environment during the French Wars of Religion. As a princess, she was married to the Duke of Savoie, contributing to her family's political alliances. Her life was marked by her support for the Huguenots, who were French Protestants influenced by Calvinist ideas. Through her marriage, she played a significant role in fostering Protestant interests in the region. Although she faced challenges due to the Catholic majority in France, her lineage and alliances highlighted the interplay of power and religion during her time.

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People Who Died in 1572 (View all 23)

William Paulet

1st Marquess of Winchester
Died
March 10th, 1572 453 years ago — None years old

Held the title of 1st Marquess of Winchester, serving as a prominent statesman during the Tudor period. Played a vital role in the administration under Kings Edward VI and Mary I. Contributed to the governance and legislative processes during a time of significant religious and political change in England.

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Pope Pius V

Pope and author of the Tridentine Mass
Born
January 17th, 1504 521 years ago
Died
May 1st, 1572 452 years ago — 68 years old

Served as pope from 1566 until death in 1572. Implemented reforms from the Council of Trent aimed at addressing issues within the Catholic Church. Instituted the Roman Missal, which led to the standardization of the Latin liturgy known as the Tridentine Mass. Promoted the Catholic Counter-Reformation to counter the Protestant Reformation.

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Jeanne d'Albret

Queen of Navarre and Protestant leader
Born
November 16th, 1528 496 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1572 452 years ago — 43 years old

Queen of Navarre from 1555 to 1572. Played a significant role in the French Wars of Religion as a staunch supporter of Protestantism. Worked to solidify Protestant reforms in Navarre and promoted the conversion of her subjects. Mother of Henry IV of France, who later became a key figure in the French monarchy, bringing a Protestant perspective to the crown.

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Sigismund II Augustus

King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania
Born
1520 505 years ago
Died
July 7th, 1572 452 years ago — 52 years old

Ruled as the last king of the Jagiellonian dynasty from 1548 until death in 1572. Reigned over Poland and Lithuania during a period of significant political change, including the Union of Lublin in 1569, which unified the two states into a single commonwealth. His reign was marked by efforts to strengthen central authority and promote economic development. Undertook initiatives to enhance the cultural and political landscape of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

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Isaac Luria

Ottoman rabbi and mystic
Born
1534 491 years ago
Died
July 25th, 1572 452 years ago — 38 years old

A prominent rabbi and Kabbalist, contributions to Jewish mysticism reshaped the understanding of the divine and the complexities of existence. Developed the Lurianic Kabbalah system, which emphasized the concepts of creation, human purpose, and spiritual ascent. Lived in Safed, where a vibrant Kabbalistic community thrived. His teachings influenced generations of mystics and scholars, leading to a revival of Jewish mystical thought.

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Miguel López de Legazpi

Spanish navigator, 1st Governor-General
Born
1502 523 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1572 452 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a Spanish navigator and politician, becoming the first Governor-General of the Philippines. Established Spanish rule in the archipelago following his expedition in 1565. His administration focused on organizing colonial governance and facilitating trade between Spain and Asia. Founded the first permanent Spanish settlement in Cebu and later moved to Manila, which became a key hub for the Manila Galleon trade. His efforts laid the groundwork for Spanish colonization in the region.

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