What Happened This Year 1584

Historical Events from This Year 1584

Exploration & Discovery

Foundation of Nombre de Jesús in Magellan Strait

February 11th, 1584 441 years ago

Pedro Sarmiento de Gamboa led a naval expedition to establish Nombre de Jesús, the first of two Spanish settlements in the Strait of Magellan. This settlement was part of a broader mission to claim and colonize territories in Patagonia, enhancing Spain's influence in South America. The site was strategically chosen due to its advantageous location, providing shelter and access for maritime routes.

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Exploration & Discovery

Sir Walter Raleigh's Colonization Patent

March 25th, 1584 440 years ago

Sir Walter Raleigh received a patent from Queen Elizabeth I, granting him the authority to establish a colony in the New World, specifically in what is now Virginia. This granted Raleigh exclusive rights to explore, settle, and govern the lands he would discover. His interests in colonization were driven by the desire for economic gain, expanding English territory, and spreading Christianity. This moment marked an important step in English colonial ambitions in North America.

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Politics & Government

Santiago de Vera Appointed Governor-General

May 16th, 1584 440 years ago

Santiago de Vera was appointed the sixth governor-general of the Spanish colony of the Philippines. His appointment came in the wake of significant challenges faced by his predecessors, including issues with governance and conflicts with indigenous groups. Vera's tenure was marked by a focus on stabilizing the colony and enhancing trade relations. He worked to strengthen defenses and implemented various administrative reforms. The appointment signified the ongoing efforts of the Spanish Crown to solidify its hold over the islands in Southeast Asia.

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Exploration & Discovery

Exploration of Roanoke Island Begins

July 4th, 1584 440 years ago

Philip Amadas and Arthur Barlowe were English explorers who embarked on a mission to explore the New World and establish potential settlements. They arrived at Roanoke Island, situated off the coast of present-day North Carolina, as part of an expedition sponsored by Sir Walter Raleigh. This journey marked a significant step in the English exploration of America, as they were tasked with finding suitable sites for colonization and assessing the resources available in the region. During their stay, they interacted with the local Indigenous populations, recorded their observations, and collected valuable data for future endeavors.

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Politics & Government

William I of Orange Assassinated in Delft

July 10th, 1584 440 years ago

William I of Orange, a key leader in the Dutch Revolt, was assassinated in his home in Delft, Holland, by Balthasar Gérard. Gérard's actions were motivated by a desire to end William's influence and the ongoing fight against Spanish rule. The assassination was a significant turning point in the Eighty Years' War, causing shockwaves across the region and altering the course of the conflict.

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Born in 1584 (View all 17)

Frederick Henry

Prince of Orange, military leader
Born
January 29th, 1584 441 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1647 378 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1584, this individual served as the Prince of Orange and was a key military leader during the Eighty Years' War. He played a significant role in the conflict between the Dutch and Spanish forces. As a commander, his strategic acumen contributed to several important victories that bolstered the Dutch cause in their fight for independence. In addition to military efforts, he also engaged in political affairs, advocating for the establishment of a stable government in the newly formed Dutch Republic. His leadership helped to solidify the power of the House of Orange within the emerging Dutch state.

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Caspar Barlaeus

Dutch historian and theologian
Born
February 12th, 1584 441 years ago
Died
January 14th, 1648 377 years ago — 63 years old

A historian, poet, and theologian active in the 17th century. Focused on works about the Netherlands' history and cultural identity. Contributed to the understanding of early Dutch society through writings that blended historical narrative with poetic forms. Served as a professor of rhetoric at the University of Amsterdam and engaged with key intellectual circles of the time. His texts often explored themes of humanism and religious thought, reflecting the complexities of the period.

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Albert VI

Duke of Bavaria, military leader
Born
February 26th, 1584 441 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1666 358 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1584, served as Duke of Bavaria from 1623 until his death in 1632. Participated in the Thirty Years' War, aligning Bavaria with the Catholic League and engaging in numerous battles against Protestant forces. Under leadership, Bavaria strengthened its military and political position in the Holy Roman Empire. His reign was marked by efforts to consolidate power and expand territorial influence through strategic alliances.

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Ferdinando Fairfax

English general and politician
Born
March 29th, 1584 440 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1648 377 years ago — 63 years old

Held the title of 2nd Lord Fairfax of Cameron, played a significant role in the English Civil War as a Parliamentarian general. Commanded forces at various key battles, including the Battle of Marston Moor, where his leadership contributed to a decisive victory for the Parliamentarians. Involved in the political landscape of his time, holding important positions and influencing military strategies.

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Michael Altenburg

Theologian and composer of hymns
Born
May 27th, 1584 440 years ago
Died
1640 385 years ago — 56 years old

A German theologian and composer associated with the early Lutheran church. Contributed significantly to church music, particularly in the creation of hymns. Served as a member of the theological faculty at the University of Jena. Held various church positions during his lifetime, offering theological insights and musical contributions that influenced Lutheran worship practices. Compiled and edited hymnals, which helped shape the worship experience in German Protestant churches.

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Theophilus Howard

English admiral and politician
Born
August 13th, 1584 440 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1640 384 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1584, held the title of 2nd Earl of Suffolk and served as an English admiral. His political career included the role of Lord Lieutenant of Cumberland. In naval engagements, commanded significant fleet operations during the early 17th century, reflecting the naval interests of England during a period of intense competition with Spain. Played a key role in the governance and military oversight of Cumberland, contributing to local administration and defense during his tenure. The crafting of military and political strategy underscored his positions.

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People Who Died in 1584 (View all 10)

Tobias Stimmer

Swiss painter and illustrator
Born
April 7th, 1539 485 years ago
Died
January 4th, 1584 441 years ago — 44 years old

Active during the Renaissance, this painter and illustrator contributed to numerous works in Switzerland. Notably, created detailed portraits and religious themes. Worked extensively in stained glass and woodcuts, showcasing exceptional skill and artistry. His works were characterized by dynamic compositions and vibrant colors, reflecting the artistic trends of his time. Contributed to the visual culture of the period through both public and private commissions.

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Ivan the Terrible

Russian Tsar and first ruler of Russia
Born
August 25th, 1530 494 years ago
Died
March 28th, 1584 440 years ago — 53 years old

Ruled as the Tsar of Russia from 1547 until death in 1584. The first ruler to be crowned as Tsar, Ivan centralized power and expanded the territory of Russia. Through military campaigns, he expanded into Siberia, gaining significant land and resources. His reign was marked by the establishment of the Oprichnina, a policy that involved political repression and the creation of a loyal military force. His legacy is characterized by both his expansionist policies and the sociopolitical turmoil of his reign.

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John Day

English printer and publisher
Born
1522 503 years ago
Died
July 23rd, 1584 440 years ago — 62 years old

An English printer and publisher active during the 16th century. Established a significant printing business in London, contributing to the spread of literature and Protestantism. Published works by notable authors including John Foxe and Thomas Becon. Developed a reputation for producing well-designed books, including Bibles and religious texts. Some of the publications contributed to the rise of vernacular English literature.

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Jan Kochanowski

Polish poet and playwright
Born
1530 495 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1584 440 years ago — 54 years old

A prominent figure in Polish literature, this poet and playwright lived during the Renaissance period. He introduced new poetic forms and is credited with the establishment of Polish literary language. The works include significant contributions such as 'Treny' (Laments), a cycle of poems mourning the death of his daughter, and 'Odprawa posłów greckich' (The Sending of the Greek Envoys), a notable play. His innovative use of the sonnet form and personal themes greatly influenced Polish poetry. Representing a transition between medieval and modern literature, his efforts laid the groundwork for future generations of Polish writers.

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Charles Borromeo

Italian cardinal and saint
Born
October 2nd, 1538 486 years ago
Died
November 3rd, 1584 440 years ago — 46 years old

Served as a cardinal in the Catholic Church, playing a significant role during the Counter-Reformation. Worked extensively to reform the church and improve educational standards among the clergy. Established the seminary system to enhance the training of priests. Promoted the Council of Trent's decrees regarding clergy reforms and ecclesiastical discipline. Canonized as a saint in 1610, recognized for his commitment to pastoral care and devotion.

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William I of Orange

Leader of the Dutch Revolt
Born
April 24th, 1533 491 years ago
Died
1584 441 years ago — 51 years old

A key figure in the Eighty Years' War, played a significant role in the struggle for Dutch independence from Spanish rule. Initiated the fight for religious freedom and political autonomy, becoming the first stadtholder of the Netherlands. Known for establishing the foundation of the Dutch state, which led to the eventual recognition of independence through the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648.

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