What Happened This Year 1579

Born in 1579

Johannes Meursius

Classical Scholar and Philologist
Born
February 9th, 1579 446 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1639 385 years ago — 60 years old

Born in 1579, a noted classical scholar and philologist. Contributed extensively to the study of ancient Greek and Latin texts. His works included editions of important classical authors, notably the texts of Herodotus, Thucydides, and others. Meursius also delved into inscriptions and ancient history, producing significant scholarly contributions that furthered the understanding of classical antiquity. His academic career included positions at various universities where he influenced the field of classical studies.

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Augustus II

Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg
Born
April 10th, 1579 445 years ago
Died
1666 359 years ago — 87 years old

Born in 1579, a prominent figure in the Holy Roman Empire, ruled as Duke of Brunswick-Lüneburg from 1635 until death. Engaged in significant political maneuvers during the Thirty Years' War, allied with various factions to maintain influence in the region. Oversaw the administration and development of his duchy, focusing on strengthening economic stability. His reign was marked by efforts to modernize governance and infrastructure, contributing to a stable environment for the duchy's inhabitants.

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Wolphert Gerretse

Dutch-American farmer, New Netherland co-founder
Born
May 1st, 1579 445 years ago
Died
1662 363 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1579, a Dutch-American farmer played a crucial role in the early development of New Netherland. The establishment contributed to the Dutch colonization efforts in North America during the early 17th century. Participated in the founding of the colony and engaged in agriculture, promoting the settlement's economy. Actively involved in the community and governance of the colony, helping to shape its early structure and policies.

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Tokugawa Hidetada

Japanese shōgun during Edo period
Born
May 2nd, 1579 445 years ago
Died
1632 393 years ago — 53 years old

Served as the second shōgun of the Tokugawa shogunate from 1605 to 1623. Oversaw the consolidation of power for the Tokugawa regime following the leadership of his father, Tokugawa Ieyasu. Maintained stability in Japan during the early Edo period and enforced policies that strengthened the shōgunate's control over the daimyos. Promoted the establishment of a centralized feudal system.

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Luis Vélez de Guevara

Spanish author and playwright of 'El Diablo Cojuelo'
Born
August 1st, 1579 445 years ago
Died
November 10th, 1644 380 years ago — 65 years old

Birth occurred in Seville in 1579. Began writing during the Spanish Golden Age and gained prominence in the early 17th century. 'El Diablo Cojuelo' published in 1620 gained significant attention and contributed to the genre of Spanish comedy. Vélez de Guevara's works often included elements of satire and social commentary. Served as a courtier and was recognized for his literary contributions during his lifetime. Died in 1644.

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Countess Charlotte Flandrina of Nassau

Noblewoman and ruler in the Netherlands
Born
August 18th, 1579 445 years ago
Died
April 16th, 1640 384 years ago — 60 years old

Countess Flandrina was a notable noblewoman in the 17th century, associated with the House of Nassau. She lived in the region that is now the Netherlands and held significant influence during her lifetime. Her lineage played a crucial role in the governance of various territories and contributed to the political landscape of the period. The countess was part of a family that had a long-standing impact on European nobility and politics, intertwining with other powerful houses through marriage and alliances. Her death in 1640 marked the end of her direct influence, but the legacy of her family continued in the region.

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Henri, Duke of Rohan

French military leader and strategist
Born
August 21st, 1579 445 years ago
Died
1638 387 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1579, served as a prominent military leader during the French Wars of Religion. Played a crucial role as a general in the Huguenot cause. Demonstrated strategic prowess in several battles against royal forces. Authored significant works on military strategy and Huguenot resistance, contributing to military thought in France.

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Thomas Dempster

Scottish scholar and historian
Born
August 23rd, 1579 445 years ago
Died
September 6th, 1625 399 years ago — 46 years old

Dempster studied at various universities, including St. Andrews and Paris. He contributed significantly to historical studies and classical literature. In 1622, he published 'Historiae Ecclesiasticae Gentis Scotorum', which focused on the history of the Scottish Church. Dempster also served as a professor at the University of Louvain, where he furthered his scholarly pursuits, particularly in classical studies and history.

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John Frederick of Holstein-Gottorp

Prince-Bishop, Roman Catholic archbishop
Born
September 1st, 1579 445 years ago
Died
1634 391 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1579, held the position of Prince-Bishop of Lübeck and served as an archbishop in the Roman Catholic Church. Played a significant role in ecclesiastical and political matters during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Involved in the conflict between Protestant and Catholic states during a time of religious turmoil in Europe. Contributed to the administration and governance of his bishopric and engaged in various diplomatic efforts.

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