What Happened This Year 1627

Historical Events from This Year 1627

Natural Disasters

Gargano Earthquake Devastates Italian Region

July 30th, 1627 397 years ago

An earthquake struck near Gargano, Italy, killing around 5,000 people. This natural disaster was part of a series of seismic events that impacted the region, resulting in widespread destruction of infrastructure and communities. The tremor's magnitude not only caused buildings to collapse but also triggered landslides, further complicating rescue efforts. The impact rippled through the local economy as families grieved the loss of loved ones and the agricultural sector suffered significant damage.

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Military & Warfare

Decisive Victory at Battle of Oliwa

November 28th, 1627 397 years ago

The Battle of Oliwa was a significant naval engagement between the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth and Sweden, taking place in the Baltic Sea near Gdańsk. This battle marked the pinnacle of the Commonwealth's naval power during the Polish–Swedish War. Under the command of Admiral Jerzy Kreczmar, the Commonwealth fleet faced a Swedish squadron, seeking to reclaim control over the seas. The battle commenced with fierce fighting, showcasing the strategic naval tactics of the Polish forces. Ultimately, the Commonwealth secured a notable victory, which would be remembered as the last major triumph of its navy.

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Born in 1627 (View all 11)

Robert Boyle

Chemist and physicist, Boyle's Law
Born
January 25th, 1627 398 years ago
Died
December 31st, 1691 333 years ago — 64 years old

An Anglo-Irish chemist and physicist contributed significantly to the development of modern chemistry. Boyle's pioneering experiments laid the groundwork for the scientific method, emphasizing experimentation over philosophy. He published 'The Sceptical Chymist' in 1661, which challenged the classical elements theory and proposed a new understanding of chemical substances. His work in gas laws, particularly Boyle's Law, demonstrated the relationship between the pressure and volume of gases. Boyle was also a key figure in the founding of the Royal Society in London. Throughout his career, he conducted extensive experiments that established fundamental principles of chemistry and physics.

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Cornelis de Bie

Flemish poet and jurist
Born
February 10th, 1627 398 years ago
Died
1715 310 years ago — 88 years old

Born in 1627, this individual served as a jurist and poet in Flanders. He authored several notable works, including 'Het Gulden Cabinet', an influential compilation that described various artists and celebrated the artistic achievements of the time. His work contributed to the understanding of art and culture during the 17th century. Additionally, he held significant positions in the legal field, reflecting a combination of literary and legal expertise.

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Stephen Fox

English politician and landowner
Born
March 27th, 1627 397 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1716 308 years ago — 89 years old

A politician and landowner in England during the 17th century, this individual served as a Member of Parliament and was active in local governance. His career included representation for constituencies in the House of Commons. He held significant influence in the political landscape of his time, particularly during the tumultuous periods of the English Civil War and the Commonwealth.

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Johann Caspar Kerll

German organist and composer of works
Born
April 9th, 1627 397 years ago
Died
February 13th, 1693 332 years ago — 65 years old

An organist and composer, contributions spanned sacred and instrumental music during the Baroque period. Worked in various capacities throughout Europe, particularly in Germany and Austria. Composed numerous works for the organ, as well as vocal and choral music, influencing the development of German music. Held positions at several churches and served as a court composer in various locations.

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Anne, Duchess of Montpensier

Duchess of Montpensier, French princess
Born
May 29th, 1627 397 years ago
Died
1693 332 years ago — 66 years old

Born into French nobility, this figure held considerable influence during the 17th century. She was a member of the House of Bourbon and played a pivotal role in the political landscape of France. Known for her correspondence with significant figures of her time, she engaged in the conflicts of Fronde, an important revolt against royal authority. The Duchess was also a key advocate for the interests of her family within the court of Louis XIV. Her writings provide insight into the court's dynamics, politics, and her own life experiences as a royal.

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Samuel Dirksz van Hoogstraten

Dutch painter and art theorist
Born
August 2nd, 1627 397 years ago
Died
October 19th, 1678 346 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1627, van Hoogstraten became a prominent figure in the Dutch Golden Age of painting. His work is characterized by the use of light and shadow, creating an illusion of depth. He studied under Rembrandt and developed a unique style that blended realism with an interest in the perception of space. Van Hoogstraten was also an art theoretician, contributing to the discourse on perspective and composition through his writings, particularly his treatise 'Illustration of the Art of Painting'. Throughout his career, he produced numerous still lifes and genre scenes, effectively demonstrating his skill in depicting textures and materials.

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People Who Died in 1627 (View all 14)

Olivier van Noort

Dutch explorer of the Pacific Ocean
Born
1558 467 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1627 398 years ago — 69 years old

Explored the Pacific Ocean during the early 17th century. Led the first Dutch expedition to circumnavigate the globe from 1598 to 1601. Documented the voyage in a journal that provided valuable information about the regions visited. Returned to the Netherlands and participated in maritime discussions and explorations. His contributions helped to establish Dutch maritime presence and influence in various territories.

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Luis de Góngora

Cleric and poet, 'La Fábula de Polifemo'
Born
July 11th, 1561 463 years ago
Died
May 24th, 1627 397 years ago — 65 years old

Born in 1561, a Spanish cleric and poet recognized for his contributions to the Spanish Golden Age of literature. Góngora became a key figure in the development of Baroque poetry, employing intricate language and innovative imagery. The work 'La Fábula de Polifemo y Galatea' showcased his mastery of allegorical storytelling and lyrical form, establishing his reputation in literary circles. In addition to poetry, Góngora also engaged in the debate over the merits of distinct poetic styles, leading to a divide in Spanish literature. His work influenced later poets and writers, defining a stylistic shift in the Spanish literary tradition and leaving a lasting legacy with his complex poetic forms.

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John Hayward

English historian and politician
Born
1564 461 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1627 397 years ago — 63 years old

Served as an English historian, journalist, and politician during the early 17th century. Contributed to historical literature with works such as "The Life and Raigne of King Henry the III". Engaged in political discourse through writings, reflecting on governance and leadership. His career included involvement in parliamentary proceedings, showcasing a commitment to political thought and historical documentation.

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Jacques Mauduit

French composer and musician
Born
September 16th, 1557 467 years ago
Died
August 21st, 1627 397 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1557, a prominent figure in the French Renaissance music scene, contributed significantly to the development of French secular music. Served as a court composer and gained recognition for work in both vocal and instrumental compositions. Engaged in the revival of the traditional French chanson, incorporating contemporary stylistic elements. Likely associated with the Poitiers and Paris music circles, influencing subsequent generations of composers.

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Jan Gruter

Dutch scholar and critic of literature
Born
December 3rd, 1560 464 years ago
Died
September 20th, 1627 397 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1560, a Dutch scholar and critic contributed significantly to the field of literature through critical analysis and scholarship. Engaged in the study of classical texts and was part of the intellectual movement in the Netherlands during the late Renaissance. His works included critiques of contemporary literature and exploration of classical authors, enhancing the understanding of historical texts. Actively involved in discussions regarding literary theory, influencing future generations of scholars.

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Jahangir

Mughal emperor and art patron
Born
August 31st, 1569 455 years ago
Died
November 7th, 1627 397 years ago — 58 years old

Became the fourth Mughal emperor in 1605 and ruled until 1627. Oversaw a period marked by a flourishing of the arts and culture, fostering Persian and Indian artistic styles. Established a strong central government and maintained diplomatic relations with various European powers. Noted for his interest in nature and wildlife, which influenced his artistic patronage. Authored the autobiographical text "Tuzk-e-Jahangiri", detailing his reign and personal philosophy.

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