What Happened This Year 1649

Historical Events from This Year 1649 (View all 14)

Politics & Government

Rump Parliament Trials Charles I for Treason

January 4th, 1649 376 years ago

The Rump Parliament in England made a historic decision to put King Charles I on trial for treason. This came in the wake of the English Civil War, during which the conflict between the monarchy and Parliament had escalated. The trial aimed to address the king's actions perceived as violations of the rights of the English people. The parliamentarians argued that a king could be accountable to the law, a radical idea at the time.

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Military & Warfare

Alliance of Irish Royalists and Confederates Formed

January 17th, 1649 376 years ago

In early 1649, the Second Ormonde Peace was established to forge an alliance between Irish Royalists and Confederates during the ongoing conflict in Ireland. This coalition aimed to unify their efforts against the English Parliamentarians and their military campaign. The negotiations were facilitated by the Duke of Ormonde, who sought to stabilize the region amid the chaos of the War of the Three Kingdoms. However, this alliance was short-lived, as they faced a decisive defeat during the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland shortly thereafter, leading to significant shifts in power dynamics.

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Politics & Government

Trial of Charles I Begins at High Court

January 20th, 1649 376 years ago

The High Court of Justice convened to try King Charles I for treason. This marked a significant moment in the English Civil War, indicating the breakdown of royal authority. The court was assembled by the Rump Parliament, which asserted the king's responsibility for the bloodshed during the conflict. Charles I refused to recognize the court's legitimacy, claiming sovereignty. The trial's proceedings took place at the Banqueting House in Whitehall, London, capturing intense public and political interest.

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Politics & Government

Execution of Charles I of England

January 30th, 1649 376 years ago

Charles I of England was executed at Whitehall for high treason, following a trial conducted by a court established by Parliament. He was accused of attempting to impose absolute monarchy and engaging in wars against Parliament. The execution took place outside the Banqueting House, and Charles famously asserted his monarchial authority until the end. His death marked a pivotal moment in the struggle between monarchy and Parliament in England.

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Military & Warfare

Second Battle of Guararapes Concludes Dutch Efforts

February 19th, 1649 376 years ago

The Second Battle of Guararapes was a decisive confrontation between Portuguese-Brazilian forces and the Dutch West India Company in 1649, marking a significant turning point in the struggle for control over Brazil. Taking place in the region of Pernambuco, the battle was characterized by the innovative tactics and unity of local forces, composed of Portuguese and Indigenous allies, against the professional Dutch soldiers. The victory for the Portuguese forces was instrumental in diminishing Dutch colonial ambitions in Brazil, leading to the eventual relinquishment of Dutch claims in the region. It solidified local resistance and set the tone for the subsequent fight for independence from colonial powers in South America.

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Politics & Government

Frondeurs Sign Peace of Rueil with Government

March 11th, 1649 376 years ago

The Frondeurs, a coalition of nobles and commoners, reached an agreement with the French government in Rueil, reconciling their ongoing conflict. This peace deal aimed to restore order after a series of civil disturbances that had threatened the stability of the country. Key figures involved negotiated terms that addressed grievances and sought to balance power between the monarchy and regional interests. The signing marked a temporary cessation of hostilities, allowing both sides to recover and reassess their positions.

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Born in 1649 (View all 16)

Augusta Marie of Holstein-Gottorp

German noblewoman and Duchess
Born
February 6th, 1649 376 years ago
Died
1728 297 years ago — 79 years old

A member of the House of Holstein-Gottorp, played a significant role in European aristocracy during the 17th century. Married to Duke Frederick III of Holstein-Gottorp, served as Duchess of Holstein-Gottorp. Through marriage, gained influence in both German and Russian courts. Offspring included Peter III of Russia, establishing a connection with the Russian imperial family. Her lineage contributed to the dynastic ties between various European nobility.

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William Carstares

Scottish minister and academic leader
Born
February 11th, 1649 376 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1715 309 years ago — 66 years old

Born in Scotland in 1649, the individual pursued a career in ministry and academia. After experiencing persecution for his religious beliefs, he contributed significantly to the Presbyterian Church in Scotland. He served as a preacher and became the principal of the University of Edinburgh. His scholarship focused on theological education and church governance. The individual participated prominently in political affairs, advocating for the rights of Presbyterians during a tumultuous period for Scotland.

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Bon Boullogne

French painter of historical scenes
Born
February 22nd, 1649 376 years ago
Died
1717 308 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1649, this painter became prominent in the French art scene, specializing in historical and mythological subjects. His works often depicted elaborate narratives, emphasizing clarity and composition. Boullogne was part of the larger tradition of French Baroque painting, contributing to the rich tapestry of 17th-century art. His style embodied the characteristics of the time, drawing inspiration from classical antiquity and religious themes. He also engaged with the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture, playing a role in shaping artistic standards in France.

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Elihu Yale

Merchant and philanthropist; Yale University
Born
April 5th, 1649 375 years ago
Died
July 8th, 1721 303 years ago — 72 years old

A merchant and philanthropist, this individual was instrumental in founding Yale University through substantial donations. Born in America and later residing in England, involvement in the British East India Company significantly influenced wealth accumulation. Contributions included funding the establishment of a college in Connecticut, which was later named Yale College in recognition of generosity. Additionally, actively engaged in various business ventures, which increased influence and financial standing.

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Chhatrasal

Indian ruler and founder of Bundelkhand
Born
May 4th, 1649 375 years ago
Died
1731 294 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1649, this figure established the Bundela kingdom in central India. As a keen military strategist, led several successful campaigns against Mughal forces. Significantly contributed to the resistance against Mughal rule in the 17th century, rallying local chieftains and commoners. His legacy includes a sense of independence and regional pride among the Bundela people.

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Adrien Baillet

French scholar and literary critic
Born
June 13th, 1649 375 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1706 319 years ago — 56 years old

A significant figure in the realm of French literature, contributions included the examination of various literary works and the establishment of critical thought in literature. Wrote 'La Vie de Monsieur Descartes', a biography that analyzed and explored the philosophy of René Descartes. This work played a crucial role in popularizing Cartesian philosophy among the educated elite. Engaged in debates regarding skepticism and rationalism, influencing the intellectual landscape of his time.

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People Who Died in 1649 (View all 19)

Robert Dudley

English explorer and cartographer
Born
August 7th, 1574 450 years ago
Died
September 4th, 1588 436 years ago — 14 years old

An English explorer and cartographer, significant contributions include participation in the early exploration of North America. Dudley produced notable maps that depicted the New World, enhancing geographical knowledge during the Elizabethan era. His work in navigation also supported future voyages and exploration efforts by England. Dudley's interests extended to the seas, and he documented various maritime charts that served as references for later explorers. His publications included 'The World encompassed,' which detailed voyages around the globe.

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Charles I of England

Monarch of England, Scotland, and Ireland
Born
November 19th, 1600 424 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1649 376 years ago — 48 years old

Ruled as King of England, Scotland, and Ireland from 1625 until execution in 1649. Engaged in conflicts with Parliament, leading to the English Civil War. Advocated for the divine right of kings and faced opposition from various factions. Imprisoned, tried, and executed for treason, marking a pivotal moment in British history. His reign was characterized by political strife and religious tensions.

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Henry Rich

1st Earl of Holland, English soldier
Born
August 19th, 1590 434 years ago
Died
March 9th, 1649 376 years ago — 58 years old

Held the title of 1st Earl of Holland and served as a prominent English soldier and politician during the early 17th century. Participated in the English Civil War, choosing to support King Charles I. Engaged in military actions and political affairs aligned with Royalist interests. Captured during the conflict and faced trial, ultimately resulting in execution in 1649.

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Jean de Brébeuf

French-Canadian missionary and martyr
Born
March 25th, 1593 431 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1649 375 years ago — 55 years old

Served as a missionary to the Huron people in Canada, establishing missions and spreading Christianity. Played a significant role in translating religious texts into the Huron language. Suffered martyrdom in 1649 during conflicts between French settlers and the Iroquois. Canonized as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church in 1930.

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Gabriel Lalemant

French missionary and martyr
Born
October 3rd, 1610 414 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1649 375 years ago — 38 years old

Lalemant served as a Jesuit missionary in New France, dedicating years to evangelizing Indigenous peoples. He was assigned to the Huron mission, where he focused on establishing connections with local tribes and teaching Christianity. Lalemant faced significant challenges, including conflicts and the spread of diseases among Indigenous communities. He was martyred during an Iroquois raid while attempting to aid Huron Christians, becoming one of the Canadian Martyrs. His contributions were recognized officially when he was canonized as a saint.

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Gerhard Johann Vossius

Theologian and scholar of classical texts
Born
1577 448 years ago
Died
March 19th, 1649 375 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent Dutch scholar and theologian, Vossius contributed significantly to the fields of theology, philosophy, and classical scholarship. His works focused on the intersection of faith and reason, exploring the foundations of religious belief. Vossius served in various academic capacities, securing a reputation for his knowledge in classical languages and texts. His writings, including commentaries on historical and theological matters, influenced both contemporaries and subsequent generations of scholars. Emphasizing a rational approach to theology, Vossius established himself as a key figure in early modern scholarship in Europe.

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