What Happened This Year 1649

Historical Events from This Year 1649

Military & Warfare

Destruction of Castro by Pope Innocent X

September 2nd, 1649 375 years ago

The Italian city of Castro was completely destroyed by the forces of Pope Innocent X, marking a decisive moment in the Wars of Castro. This military action, driven by the Pope's desire to consolidate power and enforce Papal authority, involved a lengthy siege and significant military strategies that ultimately led to the city's fall. The siege lasted several months, during which the city faced starvation and increasing military pressure. Upon its capture, many of its inhabitants either fled or were killed, signaling a pivotal point in the conflict over territories in the Papal States.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Cromwell's Forces Capture Drogheda

September 11th, 1649 375 years ago

Oliver Cromwell's Parliamentarian troops successfully besieged Drogheda, a fortified town in Ireland, leading to the capture of its garrison. After weeks of intense fighting, the decisive assault resulted in heavy casualties, with many defenders executed afterward. This campaign was a key moment in Cromwell's military campaign in Ireland, reflecting the ruthless measures he employed against loyalist forces.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Cromwell's New Model Army Sacks Wexford

October 11th, 1649 375 years ago

In a brutal assault on the Irish town of Wexford, Oliver Cromwell's New Model Army captured the city, leading to the deaths of over 2,000 Irish Confederate troops and around 1,500 civilians. The siege culminated in a fierce battle, which resulted in widespread devastation as troops stormed the town and exacted a severe toll on the defenders and the populace. Cromwell's forces aimed to suppress the Irish Confederate resistance and solidify control over Ireland.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

New Ross Town Surrenders to Oliver Cromwell

October 19th, 1649 375 years ago

After a siege led by English troops, New Ross, a strategic town in Ireland, capitulated to Oliver Cromwell's forces. The surrender marked an important gain for the Parliamentarians during the conquest of Ireland in 1649. Cromwell aimed to suppress Royalist and Catholic opposition in Ireland and consolidate power for the Commonwealth.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Foundation of Raahe by Count Per Brahe

December 5th, 1649 375 years ago

Count Per Brahe the Younger founded the town of Raahe, known in Swedish as Brahestad, as part of his larger vision for economic development in the region. The site was selected for its strategic location on the Gulf of Bothnia, and the foundation aimed to enhance trade and settlement opportunities in Northern Finland. The town was officially founded on December 5, 1649, serving as a vital maritime hub that would encourage commerce and prosperity in the area, ultimately benefiting the merchants and residents alike.

Continue Reading