What Happened This Year 1596

Born in 1596

Jan van Goyen

Dutch painter known for landscape paintings
Born
January 13th, 1596 429 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1656 368 years ago — 60 years old

Active during the Dutch Golden Age, this painter specialized in landscape paintings characterized by their serene compositions and atmospheric effects. Van Goyen's works often featured rivers, windmills, and rural scenes, reflecting the beauty of the Dutch countryside. He contributed to the development of Dutch landscape painting and was influential among his contemporaries. His technique involved the use of a restricted palette to create a sense of harmony in his pieces. Besides painting, van Goyen worked as an illustrator, creating works for books and other publications.

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Princess Maria Elizabeth of Sweden

Swedish royal and daughter of King Charles IX
Born
March 10th, 1596 429 years ago
Died
1618 407 years ago — 22 years old

Born in 1596, the daughter of King Charles IX of Sweden and Queen Christina of Sweden, this royal figure played a significant role in the Swedish court. She was part of the royal lineage during a tumultuous period in Sweden's history, marked by political strife and the Thirty Years' War. Her life reflected the complexities of royal duties and the expectations placed upon members of the royal family. Little is documented about her personal endeavors, but her birth into the royal family positioned her within the influential circles of her time.

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Ebba Brahe

Swedish countess and courtier
Born
March 16th, 1596 428 years ago
Died
1674 351 years ago — 78 years old

Born in 1596, a Swedish countess played a significant role in the royal court and was an influential figure in the political landscape of Sweden during the early 17th century. Closely associated with King Gustavus Adolphus, the countess was a prominent member of the nobility and participated in several courtly events. Her marriage to Count Jacob de la Gardie further established her position within the aristocracy. The countess's family held considerable power, and her life reflected the complexities of court politics in Sweden at the time.

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René Descartes

French philosopher and mathematician
Born
March 31st, 1596 428 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1650 375 years ago — 53 years old

A French mathematician and philosopher, made significant contributions to mathematics and philosophy. Developed Cartesian coordinate system which laid the groundwork for analytical geometry. Published 'Meditations on First Philosophy', establishing foundational concepts in modern philosophy. Died in Sweden in 1650.

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Juan van der Hamen

Spanish painter of still lifes
Born
April 8th, 1596 428 years ago
Died
1631 394 years ago — 35 years old

A Spanish painter, active in the early 17th century, specialized in still life and religious subjects. His works exemplified the emergence of the genre in Spain. Helped establish the popularity of still life painting during the Spanish Golden Age. Served as the painter to the court of King Philip IV, gaining recognition among the Spanish nobility and aristocracy. His style combined elements of realism and classicism, contributing to the development of still life imagery in Spanish art. Contributed to the cultural flourishing of the era through various commissioned works for religious institutions.

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Peter Wtewael

Dutch Golden Age painter of floral still lifes
Born
June 5th, 1596 428 years ago
Died
1660 365 years ago — 64 years old

Active during the Dutch Golden Age, a painter specialized in floral still lifes and allegorical works. Renowned for skillful compositions that combined intricate detail with vibrant color. Founded the Utrecht School and significantly contributed to the development of still life painting in the Netherlands. Many works are characterized by a rich interplay of light and shadow, showcasing a variety of flowers, fruits, and objects. His distinctive style influenced contemporaries and left a lasting legacy on future generations of artists.

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Johan Banér

Swedish field marshal known for military campaigns
Born
June 23rd, 1596 428 years ago
Died
May 10th, 1641 383 years ago — 44 years old

Born in Sweden in 1596, this military leader rose to prominence during the Thirty Years' War. Serving as a commander in the Swedish Army, conducted several significant campaigns in Germany. Played a key role in the Battle of Breitenfeld in 1631, which resulted in a decisive victory for Swedish forces against the Catholic League. Known for tactical innovations and effective operational strategies that contributed to Swedish dominance in various engagements during the war. Promoted to field marshal in recognition of outstanding leadership and military prowess. Continued to influence Swedish military tactics until passing in 1640.

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Maximilian

Prince of Dietrichstein
Born
June 27th, 1596 428 years ago
Died
1655 370 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1596, held the title of Prince of Dietrichstein. Acted in diplomatic roles during the early 17th century and was involved in the political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire. Worked to strengthen familial ties and managed territorial interests. Served prominently in various state affairs, influencing decisions within the Habsburg dominions.

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Emperor Go-Mizunoo

Emperor and historical Japanese ruler
Born
June 29th, 1596 428 years ago
Died
1680 345 years ago — 84 years old

Began reign in 1611 and ruled until 1629, overseeing the Edo period, which was marked by cultural growth and stability in Japan. Ascended to the throne at a young age following the abdication of his father. His reign was characterized by attempts to reclaim imperial powers and influence over the samurai class. In 1629, abdicated in favor of his daughter, becoming the only emperor to do so. Spent later years focused on religious and cultural pursuits, patronizing arts and literature.

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