What Happened This Year 1590

Historical Events from This Year 1590 (View all 7)

Military & Warfare

Huguenots Triumph at the Battle of Ivry

March 14th, 1590 435 years ago

Henry of Navarre led the Huguenots against the Catholic League, decisively defeating the forces of Charles, Duke of Mayenne, at Ivry. This victory was part of the larger conflict known as the French Wars of Religion, which pitted Catholics against Protestants in France. The battle occurred near Ivry-la-Bataille, and it solidified Henry's control over northern France, paving the way for his eventual rise as King Henry IV.

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Politics & Government

Anne of Denmark crowned Queen of Scotland

May 17th, 1590 434 years ago

Anne of Denmark was crowned Queen of Scotland at a grand ceremony held at Holyrood Palace. The event marked the formal recognition of her status as queen and her marriage to King James VI, who had been king since childhood. The ceremony included traditional Scottish royal rites and reflected the political and cultural significance of the union. The coronation was attended by nobles, clergy, and representatives from various towns, highlighting the importance of Anne's role in Scotland's monarchy.

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Exploration & Discovery

John White Returns to a Deserted Roanoke Colony

August 18th, 1590 434 years ago

John White, the governor of the Roanoke Colony, returned to find his settlement completely deserted. After a difficult journey to England for supplies, he discovered that all the colonists were missing, with no signs of struggle or conflict. The only clue remaining was the word 'CROATOAN' carved into a tree, hinting at the possible fate of the settlers. White's hopes of reunification were met with stark reality as he comprehended the mysterious disappearance of the colonists.

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Politics & Government

Tokugawa Ieyasu Takes Control of Edo Castle

August 30th, 1590 434 years ago

Tokugawa Ieyasu entered Edo Castle, marking a pivotal moment in Japanese history. Following the Siege of Odawara, which concluded with Ieyasu's victory over the Hojo clan, he relocated his government to Edo. The castle would become the center of power for the Tokugawa shogunate. Ieyasu's move solidified Edo's status, transforming it into a leading city in Japan and establishing a legacy that would influence the nation for centuries. This strategic entrance also symbolized the new political era that would lead to over 250 years of relative peace known as the Edo period.

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Military & Warfare

Alexander Farnese's Victory at Paris

September 5th, 1590 434 years ago

In a significant military maneuver, Alexander Farnese, Duke of Parma, led his forces against Henry IV of France, compelling the French king to lift the siege of Paris. This confrontation demonstrated the tactical prowess of Farnese as well as the challenges Henry IV faced in consolidating power amidst civil strife. Farnese's troops executed a well-timed assault, leveraging their superior positioning to overwhelm the besieging forces.

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Crime & Law

Prince Gesualdo Murders His Wife and Lover

October 16th, 1590 434 years ago

Prince Carlo Gesualdo of Venosa discovered his wife, Maria d'Avalos, in an illicit affair with the nobleman, Fabrizio Carafa. Enraged by betrayal, Gesualdo committed the brutal act of murdering both Maria and Carafa in the castle of Gesualdo. This shocking crime shocked the local aristocracy and painted a portrait of jealousy and passion, marking a dark chapter in his tumultuous life.

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Born in 1590 (View all 15)

Simon Vouet

French painter known for Baroque style
Born
January 9th, 1590 435 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1649 375 years ago — 59 years old

Activity spanned the early 17th century. Worked primarily in France, significantly influencing the development of French Baroque painting. Commissioned for various works by the French nobility and the Church. Developed a signature style that blended Italian influences with a distinct French sensibility. Returned to France in 1625 after time spent in Italy. His work was characterized by dynamic compositions, rich color palettes, and dramatic use of light. Important contributions were made to the decoration of churches and public buildings.

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Lady Anne Clifford

14th Baroness de Clifford
Born
January 30th, 1590 435 years ago
Died
1676 349 years ago — 86 years old

Born into the English aristocracy, held the title of 14th Baroness de Clifford and inherited extensive estates in Westmorland and Yorkshire. Faced challenges to her inheritance and spent years in legal battles asserting her rights to her family's property. Commissioned significant restoration projects on her estates, including the rebuilding of Appleby Castle and Brougham Castle. Chronicled her life and struggles in a series of diaries, providing insights into the societal norms of the 17th century, particularly regarding women's rights and property ownership.

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Ii Naotaka

Japanese daimyō and military leader
Born
March 16th, 1590 434 years ago
Died
1659 366 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1590, this individual served as a daimyō during the early Edo period in Japan. Notably, this figure was entrusted with the governorship of the Takamatsu Domain. In the service of the Tokugawa shogunate, this daimyō played a significant role in maintaining local governance and stability. The leadership style emphasized loyalty and military readiness. The influence extended into the cultural sphere as well, fostering the arts within the domain.

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Manuel de Faria e Sousa

Portuguese historian and poet
Born
March 18th, 1590 434 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1649 375 years ago — 59 years old

Born in Portugal in 1590, this historian and poet contributed significantly to the literary and historical landscape of the 17th century. His works often blended historical narrative with poetic expression, showcasing a keen interest in exploring the past and its impact on contemporary society. He is recognized for his extensive studies and writings on the history of Portugal, including the influential work 'Ásia Portuguesa' which explored Portuguese presence in Asia. His ability to weave historical facts with literary flair distinguished his writing, leaving a lasting legacy in both historiography and poetry.

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Ahmed I

Ottoman Emperor during the early 17th century
Born
April 18th, 1590 434 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1617 407 years ago — 27 years old

Ruled the Ottoman Empire from 1603 to 1617. Initiated the construction of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, commonly known as the Blue Mosque, in Istanbul. His reign was marked by relative peace and stability, despite initial military challenges. Faced various conflicts with Persia and the Safavid Empire, as well as tensions with the Habsburg Monarchy. Contributed to cultural advancements and artistic developments during the early modern period of the empire.

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Cosimo II de' Medici

Grand Duke of Tuscany
Born
May 12th, 1590 434 years ago
Died
February 28th, 1621 404 years ago — 30 years old

Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1609 until death in 1621. Played a significant role in the cultural and scientific advancements of the Italian Renaissance, supporting artists and scholars. Established the Accademia del Cimento, promoting experimental science. Oversaw the completion of the Pitti Palace and the expansion of the Boboli Gardens.

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People Who Died in 1590 (View all 16)

Lawrence Humphrey

Theologian and academic of England
Born
1527 498 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1590 435 years ago — 63 years old

An English theologian and academic, played a significant role in the development of Protestantism. Served as a headmaster at various educational institutions, including Magdalen College School in Oxford. Contributed to scholarly works focused on theology and education during the Reformation period. Authored various texts that addressed religious and academic matters, influencing theological thought in England.

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Gioseffo Zarlino

Italian composer and music theorist
Born
March 22nd, 1517 507 years ago
Died
February 4th, 1590 435 years ago — 72 years old

Contributions to music theory during the Renaissance period included works that systematized the understanding of harmony and counterpoint. Significant writings include 'Le istitutioni harmoniche', which established fundamental principles of tonal music. Zarlino served as a director of music at St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice and was influential in the transition from medieval to modern music theory. His theoretical approaches had lasting effects on later composers and theorists.

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François Hotman

French lawyer and legal theorist
Born
August 23rd, 1524 500 years ago
Died
February 12th, 1590 435 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent lawyer and legal theorist, contributed significantly to the development of legal thought in France during the 16th century. Authored notable works that discussed the nature of law and governance, often focusing on the criticism of arbitrary power. Engaged in rigorous defense of the rights and privileges of the legal profession. Advocated for the principles of justice and political liberty, intertwining legal discussions with contemporary political issues. His teachings and writings influenced both legal thought and political philosophy in subsequent generations.

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Ambrose Dudley

English nobleman and general
Born
1528 497 years ago
Died
February 21st, 1590 435 years ago — 62 years old

A prominent figure during the Tudor period, served as a general in the English army. He held the title of 3rd Earl of Warwick from 1587 until his death. Participated in military campaigns and was involved in the defense of England against foreign threats. Played a key role in the military governance of the time, particularly under Queen Elizabeth I. His leadership was evident during the conflict with Spain, particularly concerning the Spanish Armada.

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Francis Walsingham

English politician and diplomat
Born
1532 493 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1590 434 years ago — 58 years old

Served as a prominent diplomat and politician during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Played a key role in espionage through the establishment of a network of spies that aided in the defeat of the Spanish Armada. Acted as Secretary of State, overseeing foreign affairs and intelligence operations. Instrumental in forming alliances and addressing threats to the Tudor dynasty.

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Charles de Bourbon

French cardinal, pretender to the throne
Born
1523 502 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1590 434 years ago — 67 years old

Served as a cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church and was a significant figure during the French Wars of Religion. Held claims to the French throne as a member of the House of Bourbon. Actively participated in political and military strategies against the ruling monarchy. His life was marked by complex allegiances and conflicts, impacting the religious and political landscape of France during the late 16th century.

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