What Happened This Year 1644

Historical Events from This Year 1644 (View all 15)

Exploration & Discovery

Abel Tasman's Second Pacific Voyage Begins

February 29th, 1644 381 years ago

Abel Tasman embarked on his second voyage into the Pacific, leaving Batavia in command of three ships: the Zuiden, the Heemskerck, and the L'Aimable. This expedition aimed to explore new territories and improve trade routes, particularly in search of the fabled continent of Terra Australis. Tasman's previous voyage had already brought him fame, and he sought to uncover more of the Pacific's mysteries, forming relations and mapping unknown areas.

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Military & Warfare

Conflict Erupts in Virginia with Powhatan Indians

March 18th, 1644 380 years ago

The Third Anglo-Powhatan War marked a significant escalation in tensions between English settlers and the Powhatan Confederacy in Virginia. Following years of conflict, the Powhatan leader, Opechancanough, orchestrated a surprise attack against the colonists on March 18, 1644. This offensive aimed to reclaim lands lost due to English encroachment, leading to widespread violence throughout the colony. The English response was severe, resulting in extensive casualties on both sides. The war was characterized by guerrilla tactics employed by the Powhatan and reinforced military efforts from the Virginia colonists.

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Politics & Government

Chongzhen Emperor's Suicide During Rebellion

April 25th, 1644 380 years ago

As the peasant rebellion led by Li Zicheng escalated in its violence and potency, the Chongzhen Emperor, confronted with the imminent fall of his dynasty, chose to end his own life. His decision to commit suicide took place in the Forbidden City, Beijing, marking a significant turning point for the Ming dynasty. Li Zicheng's forces were rapidly approaching the capital city, driven by widespread discontent due to famine and heavy taxation. As rebellion loomed large, the last Emperor of Ming China struggled with despair and a sense of inevitable defeat.

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Military & Warfare

Wu Sangui Allies with Manchus at Great Wall

May 25th, 1644 380 years ago

Wu Sangui, a Ming general, formed an alliance with the Manchus at Shanhaiguan pass, allowing them to enter China. This maneuver came as the Ming dynasty faced internal turmoil due to peasant revolts and external pressures from the Manchu forces. The opening of the gates symbolized a pivotal moment in Chinese history, marking the decline of the Ming dynasty and the rise of the Qing dynasty as the ruling power in China. The event took place in a strategic location, where the Great Wall met the eastern sea, enabling access to Beijing.

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Military & Warfare

Victory Claims in the Battle of Montijo

May 26th, 1644 380 years ago

The Battle of Montijo saw both Portuguese and Spanish forces engage in a fierce conflict. Taking place in 1644, this encounter was part of the broader Portuguese Restoration War. Both sides claimed victory, showcasing their respective military capabilities and strategic acumen. The battle demonstrated the ongoing struggle between Portugal seeking independence from Spanish rule and the latter's resolve to maintain its dominion.

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Military & Warfare

Dorgon Defeats Li Zicheng at Shanhai Pass

May 27th, 1644 380 years ago

Manchu regent Dorgon led forces to victory over the rebel leader Li Zicheng during a crucial confrontation at Shanhai Pass. The battle marked a significant turning point in the Manchu campaign to conquer Beijing, facilitating their entry into the city. With this victory, the Manchus established their dominance in the region, effectively weakening the Shun dynasty's control.

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Born in 1644 (View all 14)

Louis François

French General and Military Leader
Born
January 10th, 1644 381 years ago
Died
August 22nd, 1711 313 years ago — 67 years old

Served as a prominent general in the French army during the 17th century. Played a crucial role in various military campaigns, particularly in the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years' War. In addition to military service, held the title of Duc de Boufflers, contributing to both military and political spheres. Recognized for strategic leadership and positioned within the French nobility, influencing military tactics and governance during times of war.

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François de Neufville

French general and duc de Villeroy
Born
April 7th, 1644 380 years ago
Died
July 18th, 1730 294 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1644, a prominent general in the French army during the late 17th century and early 18th century. Achieved the rank of duc de Villeroy and was involved in several key military engagements during the War of the Spanish Succession. Worked under King Louis XIV, participated in notable battles, and held significant command positions. Known for leading French forces and managing military strategies. Later served as governor of various territories, highlighting a career devoted to military leadership and governance.

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Marie Jeanne Baptiste of Savoy-Nemours

Duchess of Savoy with notable lineage
Born
April 11th, 1644 380 years ago
Died
1724 301 years ago — 80 years old

Born into a noble family in 1644, held the title of Duchess of Savoy. Married to Prince Maurice of Savoy, contributed to the political alliances in Europe during the 17th century. Notably involved in royal court life and patronage of arts, influencing cultural developments in the region.

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Gabriël Grupello

Flemish Baroque sculptor, notable works.
Born
May 22nd, 1644 380 years ago
Died
1730 295 years ago — 86 years old

Born in 1644, a prominent sculptor of the Flemish Baroque period, focused on creating religious and decorative sculptures. Lived a significant part of life in Spain, where many of his works adorned churches and public spaces. Contributed to the artistic landscape of the time with various sculptures crafted in marble and wood. His craftsmanship and style reflected the Baroque ideals of movement and emotion.

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William Salmon

English medical writer and author
Born
June 2nd, 1644 380 years ago
Died
1713 312 years ago — 69 years old

A prominent English medical writer, contributed significantly to medical literature in the late 17th century. Authored numerous texts covering a wide range of medical topics, merging practical advice with theoretical knowledge. Issued several editions of 'The Compleat Herbal,' which detailed various medicinal plants and their uses. Focused on demystifying ailments and offered insights into treatment practices of the time.

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Henrietta Anne Stuart

Princess of Scotland, England, and Ireland
Born
June 16th, 1644 380 years ago
Died
1670 355 years ago — 26 years old

Born in 1644, served as a princess of Scotland, England, and Ireland. Daughter of King Charles I, her life was marked by the turbulent political climate of the time. At a young age, she moved to France after the English Civil War, where she became involved in the court of Louis XIV. An influential figure within the French court, she played a significant role in various royal political strategies. Her marriage to Philippe I, Duke of Orléans, further solidified ties between English and French royalty.

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People Who Died in 1644 (View all 16)

William Brewster

English official and pilgrim leader
Born
1566 459 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1644 380 years ago — 78 years old

Served as a religious leader and elder of the Pilgrim settlement in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Participated in the formation of the Mayflower Compact in 1620, establishing a self-governing colony based on consent. Brewster contributed to the establishment of a Puritan community while facing religious persecution in England. His leadership helped guide the early settlers through the challenges of establishing a new life in America. Brewster's influence extended to the social and spiritual dimensions of the colony, as he served as a preacher and advisor to the settlers.

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Pope Urban VIII

Pope and patron of Baroque art
Born
April 5th, 1568 456 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1644 380 years ago — 76 years old

Served as Pope from 1623 to 1644. Oversaw a period marked by significant artistic achievement and the consolidation of papal power. Urban VIII initiated numerous architectural projects in Rome, including the completion of St. Peter's Basilica, and his papacy is often associated with the flourishing of Baroque art, influencing artists such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini. He also formulated policies in response to the Thirty Years' War, which affected Europe during his tenure.

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Guido Bentivoglio

Italian cardinal and diplomat
Born
October 4th, 1579 445 years ago
Died
September 7th, 1644 380 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1579, a notable Italian cardinal and diplomat in the early 17th century, played a significant role in the Catholic Church and international politics. As a member of the clergy, held various positions including the Archbishop of Reggio Emilia. Bentivoglio was influential in diplomatic efforts, particularly between France and the Papal States. His writings on diplomacy and politics, especially regarding the relationship between church and state, contributed to the development of modern diplomatic practices. He worked closely with significant figures of his time, shaping the religious landscape of Europe during a period marked by political strife and religious conflict.

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Francis Quarles

English poet and author of Emblems.
Born
1592 433 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1644 380 years ago — 52 years old

An English poet and author, this individual became prominent in the early 17th century. He was best recognized for the work 'Emblems', a collection that combined poetry and illustrations to convey moral lessons through allegorical images. This collection reflected the religious and moral quandaries of the time, blending a deep appreciation for literature with a commitment to spiritual expression. Alongside 'Emblems', other literary contributions included 'The Shepheard's Oracles' and various poems that reflected the poetic styles and themes prevalent in his era, enabling the individual to achieve a lasting legacy in English literature.

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John Coke

English civil servant and politician
Born
March 5th, 1563 462 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1644 380 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1563, a significant figure in English politics and administration during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Contributed to the development of legal and parliamentary procedures. Held multiple important positions, including serving as a Member of Parliament and in various administrative roles. Played a crucial role in the governance of England, especially regarding issues of land and taxation. Participated in the shaping of laws that influenced the functioning of the English state.

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Elisabeth of France

Queen of Spain and Portugal
Born
November 22nd, 1602 422 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1644 380 years ago — 41 years old

Born into French royalty, served as the queen consort of Spain and Portugal through marriage. Played a significant role in the political and familial alliances between these nations during the early 17th century. Her reign included efforts to fortify the relationship between the Spanish and French crowns. She was the mother of several children, including notable figures in European history.

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