What Happened This Year 1583

Historical Events from This Year 1583

Military & Warfare

Naval Battle of São Vicente Unfolds

February 3rd, 1583 442 years ago

In a fierce naval confrontation off the coast of Portuguese Brazil, three English warships commanded by navigator Edward Fenton engaged in battle with three Spanish galleons. The skirmish culminated in the sinking of one of the Spanish vessels, marking a notable moment in naval warfare. This exchange showcased the escalating maritime tensions during the late 16th century, as England and Spain vied for dominance in the New World.

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Exploration & Discovery

Establishment of First English Colony in North America

August 5th, 1583 441 years ago

Sir Humphrey Gilbert established the first English colony in North America at St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. This event marked a significant moment in the history of English exploration and colonization, as Gilbert's efforts laid the groundwork for future settlements in the New World. The location was chosen for its strategic position and resources, making it an ideal base for further exploration and fishery operations.

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Military & Warfare

Ernest of Bavaria's Forces Overcome Godesberg

December 17th, 1583 441 years ago

Forces commanded by Ernest of Bavaria successfully besieged Godesberg, defeating the loyal troops of Gebhard Truchsess von Waldburg. This military engagement was critical in the Cologne War, contributing to the shifting power dynamics within the region. The siege showcased strategic military operations as well as political maneuvering among the Catholic and Protestant factions, highlighting the underlying religious conflict of the time.

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Born in 1583 (View all 17)

Simon Episcopius

Dutch theologian and academic
Born
January 8th, 1583 442 years ago
Died
April 4th, 1643 382 years ago — 60 years old

A theologian and academic of the early 17th century, contributed to the development of Arminianism. Played a pivotal role in the Synod of Dort, advocating for a particular interpretation of predestination and free will. Held the position of professor at the University of Amsterdam, influencing theological thought in the Reformed tradition. Wrote several works on theology that addressed key doctrinal issues, impacting both his contemporaries and future generations.

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Peter Bulkley

Puritan minister and early American settler
Born
January 31st, 1583 442 years ago
Died
1659 366 years ago — 76 years old

Born in England, a Puritan minister emigrated to America in the early 1630s. Settled in what is now Concord, Massachusetts, and played a significant role in the founding of the town. Bulkley advocated for a theocratic government and was involved in the establishment of the First Church in Concord. His sermons emphasized moral living and the importance of community. Bulkley was instrumental in shaping the religious landscape of the new colony through his leadership and dedication to Puritan ideals.

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Jean-Baptiste Morin

French mathematician and astronomer
Born
February 23rd, 1583 442 years ago
Died
November 6th, 1656 368 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1583, a notable mathematician, astrologer, and astronomer contributed significantly to the field of astronomy through works that aimed to balance mathematical calculations with practical observations. His major work involved critiques and commentaries on Ptolemaic astronomy. Held a position in the French court, which facilitated collaborations with other scholars of the time. Expanded knowledge on planetary movements and celestial events, combining theoretical work with practical star observations.

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Edward Herbert

English-Welsh soldier and diplomat
Born
March 3rd, 1583 442 years ago
Died
August 20th, 1648 376 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1583, served as a soldier and diplomat during the early 17th century. Engaged in military campaigns for the English crown. Achieved the title of 1st Baron Herbert of Cherbury. Contributed to historical documentation through writings that reflected on the political and social conditions of the time. His works offered insights into the complexities of his era, including religious and philosophical discussions.

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Hugo Grotius

Dutch philosopher and jurist, author of 'On the Law of War and Peace'
Born
April 10th, 1583 442 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1645 379 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent legal scholar and philosopher, contributed significantly to international law and natural law theory. Wrote 'On the Law of War and Peace', which laid foundations for modern international law and influenced legal thought. Played a pivotal role in advocating for the concept of just war and human rights. Held various positions in the Dutch government and faced political challenges due to his views on sovereignty and governance.

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Axel Oxenstierna

Swedish Lord High Chancellor, statesman
Born
June 16th, 1583 441 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1654 370 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1583, a prominent Swedish statesman served as the Lord High Chancellor of Sweden during a period of political and military expansion. Played a crucial role in the Thirty Years' War, enhancing Sweden's influence in Europe. Administratively reformed the Swedish government and military, laying groundwork for Sweden's rise as a great power in the 17th century. Advocated for centralization of power and was instrumental in developing Sweden's administrative structure that included a more efficient taxation system and military organization. His policies had lasting effects on Swedish politics and governance.

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People Who Died in 1583 (View all 16)

Bernard Gilpin

English priest and theologian
Born
1517 508 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1583 442 years ago — 66 years old

Served as an influential priest and theologian during the 16th century. Played a significant role in the Protestant Reformation in England. Advocated for reform within the church and emphasized the importance of preaching. Made notable contributions to religious literature and was involved in educational efforts. Was often referred to as the 'Apostle of the North' for his missionary work in the northern regions of England.

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Nakagawa Kiyohide

Japanese daimyo known for military roles
Born
1556 469 years ago
Died
June 6th, 1583 441 years ago — 27 years old

A prominent daimyo during the late Sengoku period, held the position of lord in the Tsuyama Domain. Participated in numerous battles under the leadership of major figures such as Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Engaged in the battles of Shizugatake and Komaki-Nagakute, contributing to the power dynamics of feudal Japan. Involved in the political maneuvers of his time, playing a critical role in the shifting allegiances among samurai clans.

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Thomas Radclyffe

English politician and Lord Lieutenant
Born
1525 500 years ago
Died
June 9th, 1583 441 years ago — 58 years old

Third Earl of Sussex served prominently as an English politician during the late 16th century. Held the position of Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, overseeing English governance in Ireland during a tumultuous period. Managed military efforts against rebellions and facilitated the implementation of English policies in Ireland. His tenure included addressing issues of law and order while navigating the complex landscape of Irish-English relations.

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Shibata Katsuie

Japanese samurai and general
Born
1522 503 years ago
Died
June 14th, 1583 441 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent samurai and general during the Sengoku period, played a key role in the military campaigns of the Oda clan. Served under Oda Nobunaga, participating in significant battles such as the Battle of Anegawa and the Siege of Inabayama. After the death of Nobunaga, aligned with Toyotomi Hideyoshi and continued to serve in military engagements. Faced a notable defeat during the Battle of Komaki-Nagakute, leading to his eventual downfall. Committed seppuku following his defeat, marking the end of his military career.

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Edmund Grindal

English Archbishop and theologian
Born
1519 506 years ago
Died
July 6th, 1583 441 years ago — 64 years old

Served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1576 until death in 1583. Promoted Elizabethan religious policies, emphasizing a moderate approach to the Church of England during a time of Protestant Reformation. Advocated for preaching and opposed strict Puritan measures. Contributed to the establishment of the Book of Homilies, which guided sermon practices. Played a significant role in ecclesiastical matters and church governance, often clashing with political authorities over the direction of the Anglican Church.

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Humphrey Gilbert

Explorer and politician for North America
Born
1539 486 years ago
Died
September 9th, 1583 441 years ago — 44 years old

An English explorer and politician played a significant role in early attempts to colonize North America. In 1578, received a royal patent from Queen Elizabeth I to explore and establish colonies in the New World. Launched an expedition in 1583, which resulted in the establishment of the first English colony in Newfoundland. The venture faced harsh conditions and ended in tragedy when the ship sank during his return to England, leading to his death.

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