What Happened This Year 1594

Historical Events from This Year 1594 (View all 9)

Politics & Government

Sigismund III Crowned King of Sweden

February 19th, 1594 431 years ago

Sigismund III of the House of Vasa is crowned King of Sweden after succeeding his father, John III of Sweden. His ascension marks a significant moment in the history of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and Sweden, intertwining their monarchies. This event occurs in Uppsala Cathedral, signifying a new chapter in royal lineage.

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Politics & Government

Henry IV Ascends the French Throne

February 27th, 1594 431 years ago

In a significant moment for France, Henry IV was crowned King of France in a ceremonious event held at the Cathedral of Reims. This marked the culmination of a long and tumultuous transition of power following the Wars of Religion. His reign was characterized by efforts to reconcile the divided factions within France, notably the Catholics and Huguenots. The coronation serves as a pivotal moment in French history, symbolizing Henry's commitment to unifying the country and stabilizing the monarchy after years of civil conflict.

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Military & Warfare

Coevorden Captured by Dutch and English Forces

May 6th, 1594 430 years ago

A Dutch and English military contingent successfully captured the Spanish-held city of Coevorden, marking a significant victory during the Eighty Years' War. This joint military effort demonstrated the effectiveness of the alliance between the Dutch Republic and England against Spanish control in the region. The siege employed strategic tactics and highlighted the growing naval and military capabilities of the Dutch and English forces. The fall of Coevorden provided a morale boost and further weakened Spanish footholds in the area.

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Politics & Government

Philip II's Acknowledgment of Local Nobility

June 11th, 1594 430 years ago

Philip II formalized the rights of local nobles in the Philippines, enhancing the power of the Principalía, the native elite. This decree recognized their privileges, allowing for better governance and integration of local leadership in Spanish colonial administration. The action was significant in establishing a more stable and cooperative relationship between the Spanish crown and Filipino chieftains, ultimately benefiting the colonial regime.

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Military & Warfare

English Attack on Portuguese Carrack Cinco Chagas

June 23rd, 1594 430 years ago

The Portuguese carrack Cinco Chagas was attacked by English ships while transporting slaves and treasures from Africa to Europe. This conflict took place near the Azores, leading to significant loss of life. Of the over 700 individuals aboard the ship, only 13 survived the assault, marking a devastating event for those involved.

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Military & Warfare

Pedro Lopes de Sousa's Failed Invasion of Kandy

July 5th, 1594 430 years ago

Portuguese forces, led by Pedro Lopes de Sousa, launched an invasion in 1594 against the Kingdom of Kandy in Sri Lanka as part of the Campaign of Danture. This military expedition aimed to expand Portuguese control over the island, which was characterized by its resistance against foreign powers. Despite the strategic planning, the incursion faced significant challenges and ultimately proved unsuccessful, highlighting the complexities of maritime imperial expansion in the region.

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Born in 1594 (View all 12)

Henry Frederick

Prince of Wales, son of James I
Born
February 19th, 1594 431 years ago
Died
1612 413 years ago — 18 years old

Born in 1594, this individual was the eldest son of King James I of England and Anne of Denmark. Ascending to the title of Prince of Wales, he was influential at the court and was known for his interest in the arts and sciences. His short life was marked by a keen intellect and a passion for learning. In 1612, he died at the age of 18, likely from typhoid fever, before ever assuming the throne. His death was a significant moment in the court, as he was seen as a figure of hope for the future. As a prince, he was involved in various cultural activities and had plans for promoting art and education in England.

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John Haynes

English-American politician, 1st Governor
Born
May 1st, 1594 430 years ago
Died
1653 372 years ago — 59 years old

Born in England, an early settler in America, served as the first Governor of the Colony of Connecticut. Played a significant role in establishing the colony's government and legal framework. Contributed to the founding of the General Court of the colony, representing a crucial development in the political landscape of early New England. Served multiple terms as governor, influencing the administrative structure of the settlement. Engaged in relations with Native American tribes, navigating early colonial challenges and fostering a degree of cooperation.

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Louis Henry

Military leader in the Thirty Years' War
Born
May 9th, 1594 430 years ago
Died
1662 363 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1594, a prince of Nassau-Dillenburg, served as a military leader during the Thirty Years' War. Played a significant role in various battles and military campaigns throughout the conflict. Demonstrated strategic capabilities and leadership in confronting opposing forces, particularly in the defense of Protestant interests in Germany. Actively engaged in the complexities of the war, which involved numerous European powers and marked a crucial period in the continent's history.

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Gottfried Heinrich Graf zu Pappenheim

Bavarian field marshal during Thirty Years' War
Born
May 29th, 1594 430 years ago
Died
November 17th, 1632 392 years ago — 38 years old

A field marshal in the Bavarian army during the Thirty Years' War, distinguished in military engagements across Europe. Achievements included leadership in several significant battles, aligning with Catholic forces against Protestant armies. Commanded troops effectively, showcasing tactical prowess. Played a crucial role in the Battle of Lützen, where he was instrumental in the conflict dynamics. His military career was marked by notable victories and the establishment of a reputation as a formidable military leader.

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Francesco Manelli

Theorbo player and composer
Born
September 13th, 1594 430 years ago
Died
1667 358 years ago — 73 years old

Active during the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods, contributed significantly to the development of theorbo music. Composed numerous pieces that highlighted the unique tonal qualities of the instrument. Worked with prominent musicians and ensembles of the time, influencing the performance style of theorbo playing. His compositions are studied and performed in modern interpretations, ensuring the continuation of this historical repertoire.

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James Ware

Irish genealogist and historian
Born
November 26th, 1594 430 years ago
Died
1666 359 years ago — 72 years old

Born in 1594, a noted Irish genealogist contributed significantly to the understanding of Ireland's historical lineage. Ware served as the first librarian of the Library of Trinity College Dublin. His research included meticulous documentation of Irish families, chronicling the histories of prominent Irish families from the 11th century onwards. Ware published several works that formed the foundation for future genealogical studies in Ireland, including treatises on Irish antiquities and history, which set standards for scholarly research in the field.

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People Who Died in 1594 (View all 17)

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina

Composer of sacred choral music
Born
1525 500 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1594 431 years ago — 69 years old

An Italian composer of the Renaissance period, focused on sacred music. Established a style that influenced the development of choral music. Served as the music director at various churches in Italy and educated many students in composition. The body of work includes various masses, motets, and hymns, with a clear focus on polyphonic texture and clarity of text. Contributed to the formulation of the canon of church music and is often associated with the development of the Roman School of composition.

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Catherine of Palma

Spanish nun and religious leader
Born
1533 492 years ago
Died
April 5th, 1594 430 years ago — 61 years old

A Spanish nun, dedicated life to religious service and spirituality. Established a convent in Palma, fostering a community focused on prayer and devotion. Contributed to the spiritual life of the region and engaged in charitable acts. Following death, veneration grew, leading to local recognition and devotion.

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Tintoretto

Italian painter, noted for The Last Judgment
Born
1518 507 years ago
Died
May 31st, 1594 430 years ago — 76 years old

An influential Italian painter of the Renaissance, active in Venice, created a distinctive style characterized by dramatic lighting and dynamic compositions. Foundational in the development of Mannerism, produced numerous works, including religious themes and portraits. Combined elements of Michelangelo’s intensity with Titian’s colorism. Established an innovative approach to narrative painting utilizing large canvases. Established a workshop and taught many students, contributing to the training of future artists.

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John Aylmer

Bishop and scholar in the Church of England
Born
1521 504 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1594 430 years ago — 73 years old

Served as a bishop in the Church of England and contributed to theological discussions of the time. Engaged in several controversies regarding church practices and doctrines. Authored works that explored political and religious topics, influencing both ecclesiastical and secular thought during the Elizabethan era. Aylmer's writings were significant in debates over the nature of governance and authority, reflecting the tensions of the period.

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Rodrigo Lopez

Physician to Queen Elizabeth I
Born
1525 500 years ago
Died
June 7th, 1594 430 years ago — 69 years old

Served as the royal physician to Queen Elizabeth I during the late 16th century. Lopez was of Portuguese descent and became a prominent figure in English court medicine. His expertise and service to the queen established him as a notable physician of the time. In 1594, he was accused of plotting against the queen and subsequently executed, an event that drew significant attention and controversy.

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Jacob Kroger

Goldsmith executed for jewel theft
Died
June 14th, 1594 430 years ago — None years old

A goldsmith from Germany, engaged in the craft of jewelry making, committed theft targeting a high-profile royal collection. The theft involved the jewels of Anne of Denmark, which led to his apprehension and subsequent trial. Found guilty, faced execution by hanging in Edinburgh. The case became notable due to the high status of the victim and the nature of the crime, drawing attention to issues surrounding theft and justice in the era.

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