What Happened This Year 1626

Historical Events from This Year 1626

Military & Warfare

Yuan Chonghuan Appointed Governor of Liaodong

February 27th, 1626 399 years ago

Yuan Chonghuan was appointed as the Governor of Liaodong after his successful military campaign against Nurhaci's forces. His leadership brought a significant victory for the Chinese against the Manchus, solidifying the Ming Dynasty's hold on the region at a time of increasing threats from the rising Manchu state.

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Exploration & Discovery

Peter Minuit Arrives in New Netherland

May 4th, 1626 398 years ago

Dutch explorer Peter Minuit arrived in New Netherland aboard the ship See Meeuw, marking a significant moment in the early colonial period. He was appointed as the director of the Dutch West India Company for the colony and tasked with establishing trade and relations with the local Native American tribes. Minuit's arrival was intended to strengthen the Dutch presence in North America, particularly in the area now known as Manhattan Island. Upon arrival, Minuit began negotiating with the indigenous peoples for land and trade opportunities, laying the groundwork for future settlements.

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Politics & Government

Peter Minuit Purchases Manhattan Island

May 24th, 1626 398 years ago

Peter Minuit, the Dutch governor of New Netherland, purchased Manhattan Island from the Lenape people. The transaction was reportedly made for goods valued at around 60 guilders, a sum often mythologized as a mere $24. This purchase is significant for laying the foundation for New York City and illustrates early colonial interactions with Native Americans.

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Religion & Philosophy

Consecration of the New St. Peter's Basilica

November 18th, 1626 398 years ago

The new St. Peter's Basilica in Rome was consecrated by Pope Urban VIII. This monumental church was constructed to replace the original basilica built in the 4th century. The architectural design showcased the works of great artists including Michelangelo, who contributed to its famous dome. The event marked a significant moment in the Catholic Church's efforts to strengthen its influence during the Counter-Reformation.

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Born in 1626 (View all 15)

Christina

Queen of Sweden, patron of arts
Born
August 16th, 1565 459 years ago
Died
April 19th, 1689 335 years ago — 123 years old

Ruled as the queen regnant of Sweden from 1632 to 1654. Renowned for adopting a lifestyle that was unconventional for her time, she became a prominent patron of the arts and philosophy during the Baroque period. After abdicating the throne, moved to Rome, where she embraced Catholicism and continued to promote arts and culture. Her reign was marked by significant efforts to modernize the Swedish monarchy and promote intellectual discourse.

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Jean Talon

First Intendant of New France
Born
January 8th, 1626 399 years ago
Died
1694 331 years ago — 68 years old

Served as the first Intendant of New France from 1665 to 1672, overseeing the economic development of the colony. Implemented agricultural reforms and established new industries to enhance trade. Promoted immigration to New France, resulting in a significant population increase. Enhanced the quality of life by improving infrastructure and public services, including the construction of roads and buildings.

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Lucas Achtschellinck

Belgian painter and educator
Born
January 16th, 1626 399 years ago
Died
May 12th, 1699 325 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1626, this individual became a significant figure in the art world through both painting and educational contributions. Specialized in the technique of grisaille, which imitates sculpture through painting, gained recognition for works that displayed mastery in depicting light and shadow. Held a prominent position in the educational sector, influencing a generation of artists and educators through detailed instruction in the aspects of painting and drawing.

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Marie de Rabutin-Chantal

French author of famous letters
Born
February 5th, 1626 399 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1696 328 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1626, a notable French author and aristocrat, celebrated for a series of letters addressed to her daughter. The letters, reflecting personal observations and sentiments, provided insights into 17th-century French society, culture, and the lives of the aristocracy. This extensive correspondence remains a significant literary work, admired for its style and wit. The letters continue to be studied for their historical significance and contribution to French literature.

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Francesco Redi

Italian physician and biologist
Born
February 18th, 1626 399 years ago
Died
March 1st, 1697 328 years ago — 71 years old

A prominent figure in experimental biology, contributed significantly to the study of spontaneous generation. Conducted experiments demonstrating that maggots on decaying meat came from eggs laid by flies, not generated spontaneously. Published 'Esperienze Intorno alla Generazione degl'Insetti' in 1668, which laid the groundwork for the field of microbiology. Served as a physician to the Grand Duke of Tuscany and was involved in the study of parasitology, notably investigating the life cycles of various parasites.

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John Aubrey

Historian and philosopher, Brief Lives
Born
March 12th, 1626 399 years ago
Died
1697 328 years ago — 71 years old

Recognized as an English historian and philosopher, a significant contribution includes the writing of 'Brief Lives', a collection of biographical sketches of notable contemporaries. This work provided insights into the lives and thoughts of individuals within the 17th century. Additionally, contributions to the study of antiquities as well as natural history marked a notable aspect of this individual's scholarly focus. The unique format of 'Brief Lives' has influenced biographical writing and the method of gathering firsthand accounts from acquaintances. This individual's approach combined empirical observation with personal narrative, pioneering a style in historical documentation that shaped future methodologies.

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People Who Died in 1626 (View all 20)

Samuel Argall

English captain and colonial governor
Born
December 4th, 1580 444 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1626 399 years ago — 45 years old

Served as a captain in the early 17th century, played a significant role in the establishment and governance of the Virginia Colony. His leadership included various expeditions and diplomacy with Indigenous tribes. Argall is also recognized for his political influence during his tenure as governor. His efforts to sustain the colony contributed to the expansion of English presence in North America.

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William V

Duke of Bavaria
Born
February 13th, 1602 423 years ago
Died
February 7th, 1626 399 years ago — 23 years old

Served as the Duke of Bavaria from 1579 until 1597. Managed the duchy during a period of significant conflict and reorganization. Actively participated in the counter-reformation efforts to strengthen the Catholic Church's influence in the region. Ruled during a time marked by internal strife and the broader European conflicts of the era. His reign included the construction of various fortifications and buildings to enhance Bavaria's defenses.

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Pietro Cataldi

Italian mathematician and astronomer
Born
April 15th, 1552 472 years ago
Died
February 11th, 1626 399 years ago — 73 years old

Contributed to mathematics and astronomy during the Renaissance. Developed the theory of proportionality and made advancements in astronomical calculations. Emphasized the importance of geometrical principles in mathematical study. Published significant works that influenced later scholars in the field of mathematics.

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John Dowland

English lute player and composer
Born
1563 462 years ago
Died
February 20th, 1626 399 years ago — 63 years old

A prominent lute player and composer from England, contributed significantly to the Renaissance music scene. Dowland's compositions include a wealth of lute songs and instrumental pieces. His well-known works, such as "Flow My Tears," became popular in both vocal and instrumental forms. Additionally, Dowland held the position of lutenist to Queen Elizabeth I and later served King James I, which placed him prominently in the royal courts of his time. His innovative approach to music and mastery of the lute enhanced the repertoire and popularity of the instrument in 16th-century England.

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Anna Koltovskaya

Russian tsarina during the 17th century
Died
April 5th, 1626 398 years ago — None years old

Ruled as a significant figure in early 17th century Russia. Played a crucial role in the political landscape of the time, particularly during the Time of Troubles. Known for consolidating power and influencing the succession of leadership within the Russian monarchy. Managed complex court politics that often involved feuding noble families. Her reign was marked by the challenges of transitioning power after the demise of the previous dynasty, navigating through internal strife and external threats.

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Marino Ghetaldi

Mathematician and physicist from Ragusa
Born
1568 457 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1626 398 years ago — 58 years old

A prominent mathematician and physicist from Ragusa, contributions included advancements in geometry and optics. Developed a theory on the reflection of light and investigated the properties of conic sections. Authored works that examined the application of mathematics in the physical sciences. Engaged in the study of the mathematical principles related to the length of the arcs and the surface areas of curved surfaces.

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