What Happened This Year 1653

Historical Events from This Year 1653

Religion & Philosophy

Coonan Cross Oath: Eastern Church's Declaration

January 3rd, 1653 372 years ago

The Coonan Cross Oath marked a significant moment in the history of the Eastern Church in India, as local Christian leaders formally rejected the authority of the colonial Portuguese. This took place in the town of Mattancherry, Kerala, where around 25,000 followers gathered to pledge allegiance to a local governance structure that aligned more closely with their cultural and religious identity, rather than one influenced by colonial powers. This act symbolized a collective demand for self-determination and autonomy in ecclesiastical matters.

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Politics & Government

Incorporation of New Amsterdam as New York City

February 2nd, 1653 372 years ago

The incorporation of New Amsterdam marked a significant transition for the settlement as governance shifted under the Dutch West India Company. Located at the southern tip of Manhattan Island, it became a pivotal trading post. The decision was motivated by the need to formalize the growing population and economic activity in the area. The new government structure laid the groundwork for future expansion and development as the region gained prominence in colonial affairs.

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Politics & Government

Oliver Cromwell Dissolves Rump Parliament

April 20th, 1653 371 years ago

Oliver Cromwell, leading the New Model Army, forcibly dispersed the Rump Parliament in the House of Commons, asserting control over England's governance. This decisive act stemmed from Cromwell's frustration with the Parliament's inaction and inability to address pressing issues following the English Civil War. On this day, soldiers entered the Commons chamber and removed MPs who resisted Cromwell's authority, ultimately facilitating a shift towards military rule.

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Military & Warfare

First Anglo-Dutch War: Battle of the Gabbard Begins

June 12th, 1653 371 years ago

The Battle of the Gabbard was a significant naval conflict between the English and Dutch fleets, marked by fierce engagements. Beginning on June 12 and continuing into the next day, the battle saw a large deployment of warships under the command of Admiral George Ayscue for England and Lieutenant Admiral Maarten Tromp for the Dutch Republic. The engagement took place in the North Sea, near the Gabbard sands, as both sides vied for dominance in maritime trade routes amidst the ongoing First Anglo-Dutch War.

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Politics & Government

Oliver Cromwell Becomes Lord Protector

December 16th, 1653 371 years ago

Oliver Cromwell was appointed Lord Protector, marking a significant shift in leadership for England, Scotland, and Ireland. Following the upheaval of the English Civil War, the appointment established a new government under Cromwell's puritanical and military governance. The role fused head of state and head of government, aiming to stabilize the nation after years of conflict. This unprecedented position was received with mixed reactions among various factions, reflecting the ongoing political tensions of the time.

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Born in 1653 (View all 20)

Johann Conrad Brunner

Swiss anatomist and early medical pioneer
Born
January 16th, 1653 372 years ago
Died
1727 298 years ago — 74 years old

Contributions included significant advancements in anatomical knowledge and descriptions of various bodily systems. In particular, studies focused on the human digestive system and the lymphatic system gained considerable attention. Published works disseminated crucial medical information in the 17th century, influencing contemporary understanding of human anatomy. The anatomical discoveries laid a foundation for future research and education in medicine.

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Arcangelo Corelli

Italian violinist and composer
Born
February 17th, 1653 372 years ago
Died
January 8th, 1713 312 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1653, a significant figure in the development of the sonata and concerto genres during the Baroque period. Corelli's compositions emphasized harmony and form, establishing a foundation for future classical music. He served as a violinist and director of music, performing extensively in Rome. Corelli's work was pivotal in setting standards for violin technique and ensemble playing, influencing many later composers.

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John Benbow

Royal Navy admiral during naval wars
Born
March 10th, 1653 372 years ago
Died
November 4th, 1702 322 years ago — 49 years old

Born in 1653, a notable admiral in the Royal Navy, served during the late 17th century. Commanded British naval forces in various engagements against the French fleet. Achieved recognition during the War of the Spanish Succession, leading the successful blockade of Toulon, which contributed to British naval superiority. Played a significant role in multiple naval battles, employing innovative tactics that enhanced naval strategies. His leadership and determination were instrumental in securing victories for the Royal Navy.

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Prince George of Denmark

Danish Prince and naval commander
Born
April 2nd, 1653 371 years ago
Died
October 28th, 1708 316 years ago — 55 years old

Born in 1653, a Danish prince served as a naval commander in the early 18th century. He held the title of Lord High Admiral of Denmark and played a significant role in establishing the Danish navy as a formidable force. His leadership during the Northern Wars contributed to maritime strategies and naval operations. Additionally, he served as the husband to Queen Anne of Great Britain, further intertwining Danish and British royalty.

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Claude Louis Hector de Villars

French General, Minister of Defence
Born
May 8th, 1653 371 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1734 290 years ago — 81 years old

Born in 1653, a prominent French general and politician served as the Minister of Defence. Achieved significant military success during the War of the Spanish Succession, particularly at the Battle of Denain in 1712, where his leadership played a critical role in securing victory for France. Held esteemed positions, including governor of several territories and managing military strategies that impacted national security. Recognized for contributions to military reforms and strengthening the French army.

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Eleonore of Austria

Queen of Poland and Grand Duchess
Born
May 21st, 1653 371 years ago
Died
1697 328 years ago — 44 years old

Born into the Habsburg dynasty, she became Queen of Poland and Grand Duchess of Lithuania through marriage to King John III Sobieski. Her reign included important political alliances and support for the monarchy. Eleonore's influence extended to cultural and religious matters, reflecting the Habsburg legacy in the region. She played a significant role in the Catholic Church's presence in Poland and in the arts, fostering initiatives that enhanced the cultural landscape. Her life reflected the intricacies of European politics in the late 17th century, particularly the interplay between the Habsburgs and Polish politics.

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People Who Died in 1653 (View all 11)

Samuel Scheidt

German organist and composer of the Baroque
Born
November 3rd, 1587 437 years ago
Died
March 24th, 1653 371 years ago — 65 years old

Scheidt contributed significantly to the development of German organ music during the Baroque period. His works primarily involved compositions for keyboard instruments, including notable collections such as 'Tabulatura Nova.' Scheidt served as an organist in various churches and was influential in the musical education of future composers. His teaching and compositions helped shape the German organ tradition.

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Robert Filmer

Political theorist and author of Patriarcha
Born
1588 437 years ago
Died
May 26th, 1653 371 years ago — 65 years old

Active during the 17th century, a political theorist and author promoted the idea of divine right monarchy. Writings articulated the belief that monarchs derive authority from God and that their power is absolute. Major work, 'Patriarcha,' defended the institution of monarchy against emerging democratic ideas. Engaged in debates regarding governance and sovereignty, influencing political thought during a period of civil unrest in England.

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Gabriel Naudé

French librarian and scholar
Born
February 2nd, 1600 425 years ago
Died
July 10th, 1653 371 years ago — 53 years old

A prominent figure in the 17th century, contributed significantly to the field of library science and scholarship. Authored 'Advis pour dresser une bibliothèque', a work that provided guidelines on building and managing libraries. Served as the librarian to Cardinal Mazarin, where established notable collections and advanced library organization practices. Actively participated in the intellectual community of his time, influencing librarianship and research methodologies.

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Thomas Dudley

Soldier and politician, 3rd Governor of Massachusetts
Born
October 12th, 1576 448 years ago
Died
July 31st, 1653 371 years ago — 76 years old

Born in England, this individual migrated to the American colonies and became a prominent figure in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Serving as the third governor from 1634 to 1635, leadership demonstrated an influential role in the establishment and governance of the colony. Initially engaged in military service, the individual participated in defending against Native American conflicts and played a significant role in the development of colonial policy and society.

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Maarten Tromp

Dutch admiral and naval commander
Born
April 23rd, 1598 426 years ago
Died
August 10th, 1653 371 years ago — 55 years old

A prominent Dutch admiral in the 17th century, played a key role in the naval conflicts between the Dutch Republic and Spain during the Eighty Years' War. Commanded the Dutch fleet at the Battle of Delft in 1653, achieving a decisive victory against the English fleet. Demonstrated exceptional naval tactics and strategies which contributed to the supremacy of the Dutch navy during this period. Died in battle during the Second Anglo-Dutch War.

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Claudius Salmasius

French author and scholar of rhetoric
Born
April 15th, 1588 436 years ago
Died
September 3rd, 1653 371 years ago — 65 years old

A classical scholar and rhetorician, contributed significantly to the field of philology. Wrote influential works on the history of rhetoric and criticism of contemporary thinkers. Engaged in public controversies, notably against the works of John Milton regarding the defense of monarchy. His critiques of Milton's 'Defensio pro Populo Anglicano' were pivotal during the English Civil War period, illustrating the intense intellectual debates of the time.

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