What Happened This Year 1647

Born in 1647

Nathaniel Bacon

Colonial American rebel leader
Born
January 2nd, 1647 378 years ago
Died
1676 349 years ago — 29 years old

A colonial American figure, led a rebellion against the Governor of Virginia in 1676. The conflict arose from grievances over land policies and conflicts with Indigenous peoples. Bacon assembled a group of Virginia settlers and initiated hostilities, resulting in the burning of Jamestown. The rebellion highlighted tensions between the frontiersmen and the colonial government. Despite Bacon's death from illness later that year, the rebellion influenced subsequent colonial policies and attitudes towards governance and land ownership.

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William Louis

Duke of Württemberg
Born
January 7th, 1647 378 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 1677 347 years ago — 30 years old

William Louis served as a Duke of Württemberg in the 17th century. He belonged to the House of Württemberg, a significant noble family in the region. His leadership during a period of political and social upheaval in Germany characterized his reign. William Louis worked on administrative reforms and played a role in military strategies, particularly in conflicts affecting the region. His governance contributed to stabilizing Württemberg amidst the challenges of the time.

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John de Brito

Portuguese Jesuit missionary and martyr
Born
March 1st, 1647 378 years ago
Died
1693 332 years ago — 46 years old

Born in 1647, an important figure in the Jesuit missions in India, focusing on the Tamil regions. Established several missions and worked to convert local populations to Christianity. Suffered persecution, leading to martyrdom in 1693 due to his efforts in spreading Christianity. His commitment to his faith and missionary work has been recognized posthumously.

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John Wilmot

English poet and courtier
Born
April 1st, 1647 377 years ago
Died
July 26th, 1680 344 years ago — 33 years old

Born in 1647, the 2nd Earl of Rochester was an English poet and courtier during the Restoration period. He became recognized for his satirical and often controversial poetry, which reflected the social and political climate of his time. His works, including 'A Satire Against Reason and Mankind' and 'The Imperfect Enjoyment,' are noted for their wit and explicit content. Rochester's lifestyle was characterized by indulgence and defiance of societal norms, resulting in a turbulent relationship with the court. His literary influence is observed in the writings of subsequent poets and playwrights.

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Maria Sibylla Merian

Entomologist and botanical illustrator
Born
April 2nd, 1647 377 years ago
Died
January 13th, 1717 308 years ago — 69 years old

A pivotal figure in entomology and botany, her work significantly advanced the study of insects and plants. Merian traveled to Suriname in 1701, where she meticulously documented the life cycles of various insects in their natural habitats. Her groundbreaking publication, 'Metamorphosis Insectorum Surinamensium', released in 1705, showcased detailed illustrations and observations of local flora and fauna. This work established a foundation for future research in entomology and plant biology, bridging the gap between art and science.

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William Ashhurst

English banker and Lord Mayor of London
Born
April 26th, 1647 377 years ago
Died
January 12th, 1720 305 years ago — 72 years old

A banker and politician served as Lord Mayor of London. Held the office in 1704. Contributed significantly to the financial landscape of London during a period of economic growth and stability. Played a crucial role in local governance, overseeing various civic duties and improvements in the city. His tenure is remembered for its focus on economic prosperity and urban development.

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John George III

Elector of Saxony and military leader
Born
June 20th, 1647 377 years ago
Died
1691 334 years ago — 44 years old

Born in 1647, the Elector served as a prominent figure within the Holy Roman Empire. His reign was noted for military engagement during the Thirty Years' War and the subsequent political landscape shaped by the Peace of Westphalia. He sought to strengthen the power of the electorate and managed substantial territorial gains. Under his rule, Saxony developed a system of governance that encouraged trade and culture. He played a significant role in forming alliances to secure Saxony's position within Europe.

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Daniel Finch

English politician, 2nd Earl of Nottingham
Born
July 2nd, 1647 377 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1769 255 years ago — 122 years old

Born in 1647, this individual served as a prominent English politician during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Holding the title of 2nd Earl of Nottingham, he played a significant role in the political landscape of the time. As Lord President of the Council, this individual was involved in key governmental decisions and contributed to the administration under Queen Anne. His political career included a focus on national defense and foreign affairs during a tumultuous period in English history.

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Margaret Mary Alacoque

French nun and mystic, sainted figure
Born
July 22nd, 1647 377 years ago
Died
October 17th, 1690 334 years ago — 43 years old

Born in France in 1647, dedicated life to religious service and mystical experiences. Joined the Visitation Order and became a significant figure in promoting devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Spent years facing trials and illnesses but continued to receive visions that reinforced her beliefs. Canonized in 1920 for contributions to Catholic spirituality, particularly in fostering the understanding of Jesus' love for humanity. Founded several convents and inspired many through writings and teachings on the Sacred Heart.

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