What Happened This Year 1621

People Who Died in 1621

Kryštof Harant

Czech soldier and composer of hymns
Born
1564 461 years ago
Died
June 21st, 1621 403 years ago — 57 years old

A soldier and composer active in the early 17th century. Served as an officer in the army and participated in significant military campaigns. Composed various works, including hymns and religious music, contributing to the cultural landscape of the time. His works reflected the issues faced during the Thirty Years' War and showcased a blend of military and musical achievements. Harant's writings and compositions continue to be studied and performed in modern contexts, highlighting the intersection of music and military history.

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Thomas Harriot

English astronomer and mathematician
Born
1560 465 years ago
Died
July 2nd, 1621 403 years ago — 61 years old

An English astronomer, mathematician, and ethnographer contributed to early astronomy and mathematics. Played a significant role in the development of telescope technology and made observations of celestial bodies, including the moon and planets. Authored a comprehensive work on algebra and also documented the languages and cultures of Native Americans in Virginia.

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Charles Bonaventure de Longueval

French commander and Count of Bucquoy
Born
January 9th, 1571 454 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1621 403 years ago — 50 years old

Born in 1571, Charles Bonaventure de Longueval served as a prominent commander during the Thirty Years' War. He held the title of Count of Bucquoy and played a significant role in military engagements in Central Europe. Throughout his career, Longueval exhibited leadership in the Imperial army, where he led troops in various battles and sieges against opposing forces. His strategies and military tactics contributed to several victories, enhancing the reputation of the Imperial forces during the conflict. Longueval's service was marked by a commitment to the Habsburg cause and the defense of Catholic interests across the territories engaged in the war.

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Albert VII

Archduke of Austria, Governor of the Low Countries
Born
November 13th, 1559 465 years ago
Died
July 13th, 1621 403 years ago — 61 years old

Governed the Spanish Netherlands from 1596 until death in 1621. Served as a prominent political figure during the Twelve Years' Truce, a ceasefire in the Eighty Years' War. Oversaw efforts to stabilize the region and supported the arts and culture. His governance was marked by both military and diplomatic engagements, attempting to reconcile conflicting interests in the Low Countries.

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Guillaume du Vair

French lawyer and legal author
Born
March 7th, 1556 469 years ago
Died
August 3rd, 1621 403 years ago — 65 years old

Born in France in 1556, contributed significantly to legal literature and jurisprudence during the early modern period. Worked as a lawyer, emphasizing the importance of legal reasoning and humanism. Served in various judicial capacities, culminating in the role of procurator general in the Parliament of Paris. Authored several influential works discussing law and governance, integrating classical philosophy with legal concepts. Du Vair's writings were instrumental in shaping legal thought in France, bridging the gap between medieval concepts of law and the emerging modern legal frameworks.

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John Barclay

Poet and author of 'Argenis'
Born
January 28th, 1582 443 years ago
Died
August 15th, 1621 403 years ago — 39 years old

Born in 1582, a French-Scottish poet and author contributed to the realm of literature with notable works. The most recognized piece, 'Argenis', exemplified the genre of pastoral romance and gained acclaim across Europe. His writings highlighted themes of love and politics, reflecting the complexities of human relationships during the early 17th century. Barclay also engaged in political commentary and collaborated with other literary figures of his time, adding depth to the intellectual landscape of the period. His influence persisted through the ages, impacting later literary movements.

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Bahāʾ al-dīn al-ʿĀmilī

Islamic philosopher and educator
Born
February 18th, 1547 478 years ago
Died
August 30th, 1621 403 years ago — 74 years old

Born in 1547, this figure contributed significantly to Islamic philosophy and education, establishing the Isfahan School of Islamic Philosophy. The school became a prominent center for philosophical thought in the Islamic world. This philosopher wrote extensively, covering topics from theology to natural sciences, influencing various scholars. The works produced during this period are seen as critical in the development of Islamic philosophy.

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Robert Bellarmine

Italian cardinal and saint
Born
October 4th, 1542 482 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1621 403 years ago — 78 years old

Elected cardinal in 1599, played a significant role in the Catholic Counter-Reformation. Authored numerous theological works, including 'Controversies', which examined various Protestant doctrines. Canonized as a saint in 1930, his life and contributions were recognized by the Church. Served as a prominent figure in debates against Protestant reformers, influencing Catholic doctrine during a turbulent period in religious history.

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Jan Karol Chodkiewicz

Polish military commander and strategist
Born
1560 465 years ago
Died
September 24th, 1621 403 years ago — 61 years old

An influential military commander in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, active during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Renowned for strategic prowess in battles against the Ottoman Empire, notably at the Battle of Chocim in 1621, where his leadership played a crucial role. Held various military titles and was instrumental in fortifying Polish defenses during the tumultuous period of the wars with the Ottomans. His career also included significant participation in campaigns across Eastern Europe.

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