What Happened This Year 1621

People Who Died in 1621

Pope Paul V

Pope and protector of the Catholic Church
Born
1550 475 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1621 404 years ago — 71 years old

Served as Pope from 1605 to 1621. Reaffirmed the authority of the Catholic Church during the Counter-Reformation. Initiated the construction of significant buildings in Rome, including the Borghese Chapel in St. Peter's Basilica. Issued decrees to further church reforms and uphold papal authority in various regions.

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Michael Praetorius

German composer of sacred music
Born
1571 454 years ago
Died
February 15th, 1621 404 years ago — 50 years old

Originated from Germany, Praetorius contributed extensively to the Renaissance music scene. As an organist and composer, he created numerous sacred works and was particularly influential in the development of German church music. His notable collections include 'Musae Sioniae,' which features a wide array of chorales and hymns. Praetorius also engaged in music theory, authoring the treatise 'Syntagma Musicum,' which served as an important resource on contemporary music practices and instrumentation.

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Cosimo II de' Medici

Grand Duke of Tuscany
Born
May 12th, 1590 434 years ago
Died
February 28th, 1621 404 years ago — 30 years old

Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1609 until death in 1621. Played a significant role in the cultural and scientific advancements of the Italian Renaissance, supporting artists and scholars. Established the Accademia del Cimento, promoting experimental science. Oversaw the completion of the Pitti Palace and the expansion of the Boboli Gardens.

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Benedetto Giustiniani

Italian cardinal and church leader
Born
June 5th, 1554 470 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1621 403 years ago — 66 years old

Served as a prominent Italian cardinal during the early 17th century. Contributed to the ecclesiastical governance of the Catholic Church and held significant influence within the Curia. Participated in the election of several popes and held various positions within the church hierarchy. Engaged in the political and religious matters of the time, aligning with key figures of the Counter-Reformation. His work and decisions shaped the church's direction during this period.

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Philip III

Spanish king during a period of decline
Born
December 26th, 1581 443 years ago
Died
March 31st, 1621 403 years ago — 39 years old

Ruled as the King of Spain from 1598 to 1621. Leadership was marked by significant political challenges and economic decline. Oversaw the later years of Spain's Golden Age, though internal strife and military issues arose. Engaged in the Thirty Years' War initially supporting the Habsburgs. His reign witnessed the decline of Spanish power overseas as well as domestic issues including the expulsion of Moriscos. The administration faced difficulties in finances leading to a reliance on foreign loans.

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Cristofano Allori

Italian painter and educator, Portraits
Born
October 17th, 1577 447 years ago
Died
April 1st, 1621 403 years ago — 43 years old

Active during the late Renaissance, a prominent Italian painter and educator contributed significantly to the art world. Allori specialized in portraiture and was influenced by the works of the Mannerist style. He served as a court painter in Florence, where he created several notable portraits. Allori's most famous work, 'Judith with the Head of Holofernes', showcases his skill in depicting dramatic themes and emotional depth. Apart from painting, he also engaged in artistic education and mentorship, influencing the next generation of artists. His legacy continued posthumously through the appreciation of his distinct style and technique, which offered insight into the aesthetic values of his time.

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Edward Seymour

1st Earl of Hertford
Born
May 22nd, 1539 485 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1621 403 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the 1st Earl of Hertford and was a notable English political figure during the Tudor period. Held various positions, including Member of Parliament and Privy Councillor. Was involved in the political machinations of the court under Queen Elizabeth I, including the tensions surrounding the succession of the English throne. Managed significant land holdings and was influential in the aristocracy of the time. The title of Earl of Hertford was conferred in recognition of loyalty and service to the crown.

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Elizabeth Bacon

Tudor gentlewoman and lady-in-waiting
Born
1541 484 years ago
Died
May 3rd, 1621 403 years ago — 80 years old

Born in England, served as a lady-in-waiting at the court of Queen Elizabeth I. Engaged in the court's intricate social and political dynamics during the Tudor period. Involved in various functions associated with the royal household, contributing to the administration and ceremonial aspects of the court. Maintained connections with influential figures of the time, navigating the complexities of court life and politics.

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Anne de Xainctonge

French Saint, founder of Ursuline Sisters
Born
November 21st, 1567 457 years ago
Died
June 8th, 1621 403 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1567, dedicated efforts to religious life and education. Established the Society of the Sisters of Saint Ursula of the Blessed Virgin, which focused on the education of girls and the spiritual development of young women. The order expanded throughout Europe, contributing significantly to the educational landscape in France and beyond. Worked to promote Catholic teachings and ethical values through education during a pivotal time in French history. Passed away in 1621.

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