People Who Died in 1596
Blaise de Vigenère
Born in 1523, a French diplomat and cryptographer contributed significantly to the field of cryptography. Vigenère developed the Vigenère cipher, a polygraphic substitution cipher that improved upon earlier encryption methods. This cipher became widely used for secure communication. Alongside his work in cryptography, Vigenère held various diplomatic positions. His contributions laid the groundwork for modern cryptographic techniques and practices.
Continue ReadingJohn Lesley
Elected as the bishop of Ross in 1562, held a prominent position within the Scottish Catholic Church during the tumultuous Reformation period. Active in political affairs, Lesley participated in the defense of Mary, Queen of Scots, and served as a historian chronicling the events of the time. Authored 'De Origine, Moribus, et Rebus Gestis Scotorum', detailing Scottish history and asserting the Catholic perspective. His work contributed to the preservation of Scottish ecclesiastical history during a period of significant change.
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