What Happened This Year 1597

People Who Died in 1597

Alfonso II d'Este

Duke of Ferrara, Italian noble
Born
November 22nd, 1533 491 years ago
Died
1597 428 years ago — 64 years old

Duke of Ferrara from 1559 to 1597, played a significant role in the politics of Renaissance Italy. As a member of the House of Este, presided over a cultural flourishing in Ferrara, attracting artists, musicians, and writers to the court. Governed during a tumultuous period marked by political intrigue, maintained relative stability in his realm. Established strong ties with the Papacy and played a part in the development of military strategies in conflicts such as the War of the League of Cognac.

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Jakobea of Baden

Margravine of Baden, Duchess of Jülich-Cleves-Berg
Born
January 16th, 1558 467 years ago
Died
1597 428 years ago — 39 years old

Born in 1558, one individual held the title of Margravine of Baden. Marriage to a Duke resulted in becoming the Duchess of Jülich-Cleves-Berg. This role involved navigating the complexities of court life and political alliances during a tumultuous period in German history. The individual contributed to the dynastic ties between the territories and played a role in the regional politics of the time.

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Princess Elizabeth of Sweden

Swedish princess and royal family member
Born
April 5th, 1549 475 years ago
Died
1597 428 years ago — 48 years old

Born in 1549, the individual held the title of Princess of Sweden as part of the Vasa dynasty. As a daughter of King Gustav I of Sweden, she played a significant role in the Swedish royal lineage. She married the Duke of Södermanland and became influential in the royal court. The individual’s life reflected the political alliances and dynamics of the 16th century, contributing to the stability of the Swedish monarchy. The individual remained a prominent figure in the historical context of Sweden during the Reformation period.

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Won Gyun

Korean general during the Imjin War
Born
February 12th, 1540 485 years ago
Died
1597 428 years ago — 57 years old

This figure served as a general and admiral in the Korean navy during the late 16th century. Played a significant role in the Imjin War against Japanese invasions from 1592 to 1598. Commanded the Joseon navy and participated in significant naval battles, including the Battle of Hansan Island. Despite facing considerable challenges, efforts contributed to the eventual repulsion of Japanese forces. Known for leadership in naval tactics and strategies during a critical period in Korean history.

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Gabriele Paleotti

Catholic cardinal and author of 'Discorso'
Born
October 4th, 1522 502 years ago
Died
1597 428 years ago — 75 years old

Served as a Catholic cardinal and was a prominent figure in the Counter-Reformation. Contributed significantly to the church through theological writings and efforts to reform clergy conduct. Authored the influential treatise 'Discorso' on the role of images in religious practice, advocating for their proper use in worship. Played a role in the establishment of guidelines for the use of art in churches to support the faith.

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Infanta Catherine Michelle of Spain

Princess of Spain, wife of the King of France
Born
October 10th, 1567 457 years ago
Died
1597 428 years ago — 30 years old

Born in 1567, a Spanish infanta of the House of Habsburg, played a significant role in the political landscape of Europe through marriage alliances. Married Henry IV of France in 1600, which was part of a strategic effort to unify Catholic and Protestant factions in France during the Wars of Religion. The marriage aimed to strengthen ties between Spain and France, two of the era's major powers. The infanta had an influential position at the French court and was a mother to several children, including Louis XIII. Catherine Michelle's life reflected the intricate alliances and hostilities of 16th-century European monarchies.

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Edward Kelley

English spirit medium and alchemist
Born
August 1st, 1555 469 years ago
Died
1597 428 years ago — 42 years old

A notable figure in the late 16th century, involved in the practice of spirit communication and alchemy. Worked closely with a prominent scholar, contributing to the development of a system of angelic magical communication. His works included the publication of the 'Book of Angelic Conversations' with his collaborator. The practices engaged involved scrying, which drew interest from various contemporaries. Kelley's life included allegations of fraud and manipulation, leading to periods of imprisonment and conflict.

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William Brooke

English noble and politician in Parliament
Born
November 1st, 1527 497 years ago
Died
1597 428 years ago — 70 years old

Held the title of 10th Baron Cobham and served as a prominent member of the English nobility during the Tudor period. Active in politics, played a significant role in the Parliament of England. Engaged in various political affairs and contributed to the governance of the realm. His influence was notable during a time when the role of nobility in politics was essential for the monarchy.

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Ashikaga Yoshiaki

Japanese shōgun during the Sengoku period
Born
December 5th, 1537 487 years ago
Died
1597 428 years ago — 60 years old

Assumed the position of shōgun in 1568 during the late Sengoku period of Japan. His tenure was marked by the attempts to unify Japan amidst civil conflict. Yoshiaki was supported by Oda Nobunaga, a powerful daimyo, but later fell out of favor as Nobunaga grew more dominant and sought to eliminate rival factions. The shōgunate under Yoshiaki faced significant challenges, including internal strife and power struggles. Eventually, Yoshiaki was forced to flee and relinquished power by 1573. His period in power is noted for the turbulent political landscape as various factions vied for control.

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