What Happened This Year 1653

Born in 1653

Samuel Parris

English-American minister in Salem
Born
1653 372 years ago
Died
February 27th, 1720 305 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the minister in Salem Village, Massachusetts, during the Salem witch trials. His tenure was marked by a rise in accusations of witchcraft, leading to a significant societal upheaval. Parris's active role in the trials included supporting the prosecution of numerous alleged witches, which culminated in several executions. His leadership was controversial, and he faced opposition from various community members, ultimately resulting in a decline in his position in the town after the trials ended.

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Chikamatsu Monzaemon

Japanese playwright and kabuki author
Born
1653 372 years ago
Died
January 6th, 1725 300 years ago — 72 years old

A significant figure in early modern Japanese theater, a playwright who contributed greatly to the development of kabuki and bunraku. Active during the Edo period, created works that explored themes of love and betrayal, often drawing from historical events and tales. Some of the most notable plays include 'The Love Suicides at Sonezaki' and 'The Battles of Coxinga.' Served as a key figure in the popularization of these theatrical forms, blending poetry and drama in unique ways.

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