Historical Events from This Year 1620 (View all 11)
Virginia Company Gains Tobacco Monopoly
The English crown enforced a ban on tobacco cultivation within England while granting the Virginia Company exclusive rights to grow tobacco in Virginia. This arrangement included a tax payment of one shilling per pound of tobacco produced. The decision aimed to control tobacco production and boost colonial profits, significantly impacting the burgeoning tobacco trade.
Continue ReadingSpeedwell Departs Delfshaven for America
The Speedwell, a ship carrying English pilgrims, departed from Delfshaven, Netherlands, to embark on a journey to America via England. The group consisted largely of Separatists seeking religious freedom. Their goal was to establish a colony where they could worship freely. Leaving on this date marked the beginning of an important migration that would shape American history.
Continue ReadingMayflower's First Attempt to Reach America
The Mayflower, carrying pilgrims, embarked on its initial journey from Southampton, England, to North America. An unfortunate turn of events occurred when its accompanying ship, the Speedwell, developed a significant leak. Consequently, the Mayflower was forced to dock in Dartmouth for repairs. This setback delayed the voyage, but the pilgrims remained determined to establish their colony in the New World, seeking religious freedom and opportunity.
Continue ReadingPilgrims depart on the Mayflower to America
In September 1620, a group of English Pilgrims boarded the Mayflower in Plymouth, England, seeking a new life in North America. Driven by a desire for religious freedom and the hope for better opportunities, they embarked on a journey that would lead to their settlement in what is now Massachusetts. The ship carried both Pilgrims and other settlers, known as 'strangers', reflecting a diverse group united by their hopes for a bright future across the Atlantic Ocean.
Continue ReadingFoundation of Kokkola by King Gustavus Adolphus
Kokkola, known as Karleby in Swedish, was founded by King Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden as part of his vision to expand Sweden's presence in the region. This initiative aimed to enhance trade and solidify Swedish rule along the Baltic Sea coastline. Situated in what is now Finland, Kokkola became a vital port and commercial hub. The establishment of the town in 1620 was crucial for Sweden's economic interests, promoting both agriculture and commerce in the newly settled area.
Continue ReadingPilgrims Depart for New World Aboard Mayflower
The Mayflower set sail from Plymouth, England, carrying a group of Pilgrims seeking religious freedom. These individuals, known as the Pilgrims, were a mix of Separatists, who sought to break away from the Church of England, and others looking for new opportunities. The voyage was intended to reach the Virginia Colony, but it would ultimately lead to the establishment of Plymouth Colony. Over the course of their journey, the Pilgrims faced challenges, including a cramped living space and illness among passengers, raising the stakes for their quest for a better life.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1620 (View all 17)
Miklós Zrínyi
Born in 1620, a prominent military commander in the Habsburg Empire and a member of the Zrínyi family. Fought against the Ottoman Empire during the Long Turkish War. Led significant military campaigns, contributing to the defense of the empire's territories. Also achieved recognition as a poet, with works that expressed themes of heroism and patriotism. Died in 1664 during a military engagement against the Ottomans.
Continue ReadingFrederick William
Born in 1620, served as Elector of Brandenburg and Duke of Prussia from 1640 until death in 1688. Led Brandenburg-Prussia through the Thirty Years' War. Expanded territories and strengthened central authority. Implemented reforms in administration and military. Promoted trade and modernization, laying groundwork for future expansion of the state.
Continue ReadingMarguerite Bourgeoys
A French-Canadian nun established the Congregation of Notre Dame of Montreal in the 17th century. This religious community focused on the education of young girls and played a critical role in the development of educational institutions in New France. Additionally, she was involved in missionary work and the spiritual life of the early settlers. Canonized as a saint in 1982, her contributions to education and religious life are commemorated in various institutions in Canada.
Continue ReadingNikolaes Heinsius the Elder
Born in 1620, this individual contributed significantly to Dutch literature as a poet and scholar. Prominent in the literary scene, Heinsius engaged with classical works, translating and interpreting them for contemporary audiences. Extensive writings included poetry and critical essays, which influenced the poetic landscape of the time. He served as a member of the Amsterdam literary society, fostering connections among writers and intellectuals. His scholarly pursuits also included philological studies, enhancing the appreciation and understanding of classical texts in the Dutch language.
Continue ReadingJean Picard
Contributed significantly to the field of astronomy and geodesy in the 17th century. Developed techniques to measure the size of the Earth and improvements in astronomical instruments. Participated in the measurement of a degree of latitude in 1669, which advanced the understanding of Earth’s circumference. Worked on refining telescopes and measuring celestial bodies.
Continue ReadingIsabella Leonarda
A significant figure in the early Baroque music era, this individual composed sacred vocal music primarily for the convent of Santa Teresa in Novara, Italy. Contributions included various collections of motets, masses, and other liturgical works designed for performance within the convent setting. The compositions displayed a distinctive style that emphasized the vocal capabilities and sacred themes. Alongside composition, education played a crucial role, as this individual served as a teacher, shaping the musical knowledge of many aspiring musicians. A few of the published works include 'Sonate da chiesa' and 'Motetti o Canzoni'.
Continue ReadingPeople Who Died in 1620 (View all 12)
John Croke
Served as a politician and judge in England during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Held positions as a Member of Parliament representing various constituencies, including the borough of Hereford. Contributed to legal reforms within the English judicial system. His significant work in law included presiding over matters in the King's Bench and assisting in the development of common law.
Continue ReadingAmar Singh I
Ascended to the throne of Mewar in 1597 and ruled until 1620. Strengthened Mewar’s position against Mughal influence. Engaged in military campaigns to protect the kingdom's independence, building alliances with surrounding regions. Contributed to the cultural richness of the region during his reign, promoting arts and architecture, including the development within Udaipur.
Continue ReadingThomas Campion
A composer, poet, and physician, he was active during the English Renaissance. Campion wrote both music and poetry, often blending the two art forms in his compositions. He contributed significantly to the development of English song, authoring over a hundred songs and poems. His notable works include 'The Fourth Book of Airs' and various poetic collections. Additionally, he gained recognition for his writings on music theory, influencing the practice and understanding of composition in his era.
Continue ReadingJohn Sarkander
A priest and saint associated with Catholicism, served in the early 17th century. Played a significant role in spiritual leadership, exhibiting resilience amidst persecution. After being imprisoned and tortured for his faith, he maintained his commitment to the church, leading to his martyrdom. Canonized by Pope Pius IX in 1867, recognized for his unwavering faith and contributions to the Catholic community.
Continue ReadingWilliam Adams
Born in 1564 in England, played a significant role in early European exploration of Japan. Joined the Dutch East India Company and became one of the first Westerners to reach Japan. Established a relationship with Tokugawa Ieyasu and was appointed to an important position in the shogun's court. Provided advice on Western technology and trade, aiding in the social and cultural exchanges between Japan and Europe. Adams's experiences were later described in the book 'The Twelve Gates', contributing to the understanding of Japan during the early 17th century.
Continue ReadingWanli Emperor of China
Ascended to the throne at a young age, leading China during a significant period of the Ming Dynasty. The reign lasted from 1572 to 1620, becoming one of the longest in Chinese history. The Wanli era is noted for initial economic prosperity and cultural achievements, including advancements in the arts and literature. However, the later years of the reign saw challenges such as political strife and bureaucratic inefficiencies, leading to a decline in the government’s effectiveness. Efforts to maintain control over the empire faced resistance from officials. Despite these issues, contributions to temple construction and maritime trade occurred during the period.
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