Born in 1618
Francesco Maria Grimaldi
Born in 1618, significant contributions to the fields of mathematics and physics were made. Grimaldi is recognized for his studies in optics and the wave theory of light. His experimentation with diffraction led to a better understanding of light behavior. These contributions were foundational for subsequent optical research.
Continue ReadingRoger de Rabutin
Born in 1618, this individual was a French author and letter writer during the 17th century. Associated with the literary salons of his time, produced a distinctive body of work that included letters and essays characterized by their wit and clarity. Served as a soldier and was involved in the religious and political conflicts of the era, which influenced literary output. Is best recognized for the letters exchanged with various correspondents, highlighting personal, social, and political matters of the time. These letters provide insight into the culture and society of France during a pivotal period.
Continue ReadingJohan Nieuhof
Born in 1618, a Dutch traveler who documented voyages to Brazil, the Caribbean, and the East Indies. Wrote extensively about the cultures and people encountered during these travels, with notable publications detailing the geography and customs of the regions. His accounts served as important references for European knowledge of these areas during the 17th century.
Continue ReadingPeter Lely
Born in the Netherlands and later relocating to England, a career in painting flourished with a focus on portraiture during the 17th century. A prominent artist, created numerous portraits of notable figures in English society, particularly during the Restoration period. Served as the court painter to King Charles II, producing works that captured the likenesses of nobles and royalty. Established a reputation for both his technical skill and ability to convey personality through his subjects.
Continue ReadingAurangzeb
Ruled as the sixth Mughal emperor from 1658 to 1707. Oversaw significant military expansions and territorial conquests, including campaigns in the Deccan region. Implemented policy changes that reinforced Islamic law across the empire. Extended Mughal architecture, contributing to iconic structures such as the Badshahi Mosque. Focused on fiscal reforms and centralized administration.
Continue ReadingElisabeth of the Palatinate
Born into the court of the Palatinate, engaged in philosophical dialogues with prominent thinkers of the time. Focused on metaphysics, philosophy, and theology through correspondence, particularly with René Descartes. Contributed significantly to the intellectual landscape of early modern Europe. Maintained a strong Calvinist faith and fostered discussions around ethics and the nature of God.
Continue ReadingBartolomé Esteban Murillo
Born in Seville, a prominent figure in Spanish Baroque painting. Developed a distinctive style characterized by warm color palettes and naturalistic figures. Focused on religious themes, producing notable works for churches and private collections. Contributed to the artistic education of others and was influential in the art community of his time. His legacy includes a vast body of work that has been studied and revered for centuries.
Continue ReadingThomas Blood
Served as an Irish colonel during the 17th century and became notorious for the attempted theft of the Crown Jewels of England in 1671. After being apprehended, managed to convince King Charles II to pardon, leading to a surprising friendship. Later, lived a life of relative comfort and wealth based on this escapade. Blood's audacious act and subsequent escape from the Tower of London cemented his place in criminal lore.
Continue ReadingRaffaello Fabretti
Contributed significantly to the study of ancient Roman inscriptions and archaeology. Authored multiple works that detailed Roman antiquities, including the influential text 'De Aquis et Aqueductibus Veteris Urbis Romae'. Worked as a scholar in Rome, where extensive research on ancient Rome's water systems and infrastructure took place. Played a vital role in the field of epigraphy, and his studies offered insights into the civilization's engineering and public works.
Continue Reading