Born in 1612
Thomas Fairfax
Served as a key military leader during the English Civil War. Commanded the New Model Army, achieving crucial victories against royalist forces. Held the position of commander-in-chief for Parliamentary forces, playing a significant role in the conflict that ultimately led to the establishment of the Commonwealth. Additionally, participated in negotiations following the war, influencing the future political landscape of England.
Continue ReadingHenry Casimir I of Nassau-Dietz
Served as Count of Nassau-Dietz during the 17th century. Held a significant military command in the Dutch Republic during the Eighty Years' War. Played a key role in various military engagements against Spanish forces. Promoted the welfare of his territories and sought to enhance their strategic positions. Managed estate affairs and fortified defenses in his domains. Demonstrated leadership and governance in a turbulent historical period.
Continue ReadingAntoine Arnauld
Contributed significantly to mathematics, theology, and philosophy during the 17th century. Engaged in the intellectual movement of Jansenism, which emphasized predestination and grace in contrast to Jesuit theology. Published works on logic, including 'The Port-Royal Logic', which influenced modern thought. Participated in debates concerning the nature of free will and divine grace. Also involved in the creation of the 'Grammaire de Port-Royal', which contributed to the study of language and grammar. Served as a key figure in the development of the philosophical discourse surrounding Cartesian ideas.
Continue ReadingThomas Killigrew
A prominent figure in 17th-century English theatre, contributed significantly to the development of Restoration drama. Established one of the first London theatres after the English Civil War, the King's Company, which became a leading venue for plays. Wrote numerous plays, including comedies and tragedies, that reflected the tastes of the era. His works helped shape the landscape of English theatre during his time.
Continue ReadingPaul de Chomedey
Sieur de Maisonneuve served as a French soldier and is recognized for founding Montreal in 1642. Commissioned by the Société de Notre-Dame de Montréal, he led a group of settlers and established a fortified settlement, which became a vital center for trade and missionary work. The settlement faced numerous challenges, including conflicts with Indigenous peoples and harsh living conditions. De Chomedey's leadership and perseverance contributed to the eventual growth and establishment of the community. He governed Montreal for several years, addressing both military and civil matters, and played a critical role in its early development until he left in 1656.
Continue ReadingAnne Bradstreet
Born in 1612, this individual became the first published female poet in America. Most of the poetry reflected personal experiences, faith, and the challenges faced as a woman in a patriarchal society. The collection 'The Tenth Muse Lately Sprung Up in America' published in 1650, served as a significant milestone in American literature. The work included themes of love, family, and the Puritan experience. Throughout the life, writings offered insights into both the public and private dimensions of life in colonial New England, influencing future generations of poets and writers.
Continue ReadingSimone Cantarini
Active during the Baroque period, this Italian painter and engraver developed a distinctive style characterized by fluid lines and emotive expressions. Cantarini trained under the guidance of prominent artists and became a notable figure in the Rimini region. His work reflected the transition from the late Renaissance to the dynamic Baroque aesthetics, showcasing both technical skills in etching and a keen understanding of dramatic compositions. Cantarini produced various religious and mythological subjects, receiving recognition for his contributions to Italian art. Later in life, he also undertook significant commissions, solidifying his reputation among peers and collectors.
Continue ReadingFrans Post
A prominent Dutch painter, worked primarily in the 17th century. Specialized in landscape painting, with particular focus on Brazilian scenery after traveling to the region. Created numerous works depicting the lush landscapes and indigenous culture of Brazil, contributing significantly to the genre of landscape art in the Dutch Golden Age. Post became the first artist to consistently portray Brazilian landscapes and is often associated with the historical period of Dutch colonization in Brazil.
Continue ReadingJohn Albert Vasa
Born in 1612, served as a leading cardinal in the Polish Catholic Church during the 17th century. Played a pivotal role in the ecclesiastical affairs of Poland and was involved in various synods. Actively promoted the Catholic faith in a period marked by religious conflict. Held the position of the Archbishop of Gniezno, the highest office in the Polish church, contributing to its influence and governance.
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