What Happened This Year 1645

Born in 1645

William Kidd

Scottish pirate hunter and privateer
Born
January 22nd, 1645 380 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1701 323 years ago — 56 years old

Born in 1645 in Scotland, served as a sailor and privateer. Gained notoriety during the late 17th century while undertaking missions to combat piracy. Commanded the adventure ship 'Lauretta' and was granted a privateering commission by the British government. Later faced charges of piracy himself. Captured in 1699, tried, and hanged in 1701. His story contributed to legends surrounding piracy and privateering in the Caribbean.

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George Jeffreys

Welsh judge, Lord Chancellor of Great Britain
Born
May 15th, 1645 379 years ago
Died
April 18th, 1689 335 years ago — 43 years old

This individual served as a prominent judge and politician in 17th century Britain. Appointed as Lord Chancellor, played a significant role in the judicial system of England, overseeing notable trials including the Monmouth Rebellion. Known for a severe and controversial approach to law, the tenure and decisions influenced the perception of the British judicial system during that era. Also involved in politics, was a member of the House of Lords and had a notable impact on legislation concerning the courts.

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Sidney Godolphin

English politician and statesman
Born
June 15th, 1645 379 years ago
Died
September 15th, 1712 312 years ago — 67 years old

Served as a prominent English politician during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Appointed as First Lord of the Treasury and held the office of Lord High Treasurer. Played a significant role in the Whig political party and was instrumental in the administration during the War of the Spanish Succession. Worked to coordinate military efforts and manage finances for England during a critical period. Held significant positions under multiple monarchs, influencing legislative and financial matters within the kingdom.

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Marguerite Louise d'Orléans

French princess and Claire Clémence
Born
July 28th, 1645 379 years ago
Died
September 17th, 1721 303 years ago — 76 years old

Born into the House of Orléans, a notable French royal lineage, played significant roles in the political landscape of 17th century France. Her marriage to Duke de Montpensier secured alliances contributing to the royal family's influence. Actively navigated court life at the time, engaging in complex relationships and political maneuvers among the French nobility. Resided at the Château de Saint-Maur, where her court became a center of intrigue and artistic patronage. Her legacy extended beyond her lifetime, with descendants who continued to shape French history.

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Eusebio Kino

Italian missionary and explorer in Mexico
Born
August 10th, 1645 379 years ago
Died
March 15th, 1711 314 years ago — 65 years old

A Jesuit priest and missionary, contributed significantly to the exploration and evangelization of the southwestern United States and Mexico. Established several missions in what is now Arizona and northern Mexico, facilitating the spread of Christianity among Indigenous populations. Advocated for the rights of Native Americans, opposing the enslavement and mistreatment of Indigenous peoples. His work laid the groundwork for later European settlement in the region.

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Jean de La Bruyère

French philosopher and author of "Les Caractères"
Born
August 16th, 1645 379 years ago
Died
1696 329 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1645, a French philosopher and author became influential through literary work. "Les Caractères", published in 1688, explored societal morals and contemporary manners, establishing a framework for character analysis in literature. This work examined the human condition with keen observations on life, society, and behavior. Additionally, contributions to literary discussions solidified a legacy in moral philosophy, providing insights that remain relevant to modern thinking.

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Louis Jolliet

Canadian explorer of North America
Born
September 21st, 1645 379 years ago
Died
1700 325 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1645, a French Canadian explorer played a key role in the exploration of North America. Jolliet, alongside Father Jacques Marquette, undertook an expedition to explore the Mississippi River in 1673. The journey aimed to find a route to the Pacific Ocean and to promote trade with Native American tribes. The exploration provided valuable mapping and knowledge of the region. Jolliet's reports detailed the geography, peoples, and resources encountered during the expedition. In 1680, he helped in the exploration of the Illinois River, further contributing to early cartography in North America. His work laid important groundwork for future explorations and settlements in the region.

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Giovanni Antonio Viscardi

Swiss architect and master builder
Born
December 27th, 1645 379 years ago
Died
1713 312 years ago — 68 years old

Born in Switzerland, an architect and master builder primarily active during the late 17th century. Worked extensively on various architectural projects throughout the region, contributing to the landscape of Swiss architecture. Engaged in designing and constructing buildings that reflected the Baroque style, adapting this aesthetic to regional preferences. Remained influential in architectural circles, impacting successive generations of architects through works and mentorship.

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Sir John Fenwick

English general and politician
Born
1645 380 years ago
Died
January 28th, 1697 328 years ago — 52 years old

A 3rd Baronet and English general, served in the military during the late 17th century. Held the position of Member of Parliament for Northumberland and was involved in significant political affairs of the time. Participated in various military campaigns, demonstrating leadership in battles. Later faced trial for treason related to the Jacobite rising, which ultimately led to execution.

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