What Happened This Year 1654

People Who Died in 1654

Emperor Go-Kōmyō of Japan

Japanese Emperor during Edo Period
Born
April 20th, 1633 391 years ago
Died
October 30th, 1654 370 years ago — 21 years old

Ascended the throne in 1654, serving as the 110th Emperor of Japan. He presided over a period marked by relative peace and stability known as the Edo period. Managed court affairs and engaged in the promotion of culture and art, including poetry and calligraphy. Undertook reforms to improve the imperial court's standing and foster relations with the ruling Tokugawa shogunate.

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John Selden

English jurist, scholar, and antiquarian
Born
December 16th, 1584 440 years ago
Died
November 30th, 1654 370 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1584, a prominent English jurist and scholar specializing in law, antiquities, and biblical studies. Authored significant works that influenced legal thought in England, particularly during the early modern period. Played a critical role in developing the understanding of English law and its historical foundations. Engaged in important debates concerning religious and legal matters of his time, contributing to the development of constitutional law and historical scholarship. His critical assessments of common law and civil law have been referenced by later legal scholars.

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Jean François Sarrazin

French author and poet of the 17th century
Born
1611 414 years ago
Died
December 5th, 1654 370 years ago — 43 years old

This individual was a prominent French author and poet during the early 17th century. Known for contributions to the literary culture of the time, works include theatrical plays and poetry that reflected the social and cultural dynamics of the era. Engaged with contemporary literary movements and circles, the individual participated in the intellectual discourse of the period, leaving a legacy that influenced subsequent generations of writers.

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Muhammad Qadiri

Founder of the Naushahia Qadri order
Born
August 21st, 1552 472 years ago
Died
1654 371 years ago — 102 years old

Established the Naushahia branch of the Qadri order focusing on Sufism and spirituality. Played a significant role in spreading the teachings of the Qadri tradition, emphasizing love, devotion, and remembrance of God. Fostered a community centered on spiritual growth and guidance. His teachings contributed to the development of various spiritual practices within the order.

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Francesco Mochi

Italian sculptor known for large statues
Born
July 29th, 1580 444 years ago
Died
1654 371 years ago — 74 years old

Active during the late 16th and early 17th centuries, a prominent Italian sculptor specialized in large-scale marble sculptures. Worked extensively in Rome and received commissions for various public and private projects. Notably created the statue of Saint Paul on the façade of the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls. Also contributed to the ornamentation of the Palazzo Barberini, showcasing proficiency in depicting figures with dynamic poses and intricate details. Later years involved teaching and influencing other artists in the field of sculpture.

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San Pedro Claver

Spanish Jesuit saint and missionary
Born
June 26th, 1581 443 years ago
Died
1654 371 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1581, a Spanish Jesuit missionary dedicated life to the service of enslaved people in the Americas. Deployed to Cartagena, Colombia, provided care and catechesis to thousands of Africans brought to the region. Established a reputation for compassion and advocacy for the rights of the enslaved, working tirelessly to alleviate their suffering. Canonized in 1888, he became the patron saint of enslaved people and mission workers.

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Paulus Potter

Dutch painter of animal scenes
Born
November 20th, 1625 399 years ago
Died
1654 371 years ago — 29 years old

Born in 1625, a Dutch painter specialized in animal subjects and landscapes. Created intricate depictions of animals in natural settings. Gained recognition for works that showcased the beauty of rural life and the Dutch countryside. His most notable painting, 'The Bull', exemplified his adeptness in rendering animals with lifelike precision and detail. Influenced by his peers and the wider trends in Dutch Baroque painting, contributed to the genre of animal painting during the 17th century. Passed away in 1654, leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship and realistic portrayal of animals.

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Hippolytus Guarinonius

Italian physician and polymath
Born
November 18th, 1571 453 years ago
Died
1654 371 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1571, this individual contributed to medicine and various scientific fields. Work included studies in botany, physiology, and anatomy. Authored multiple medical texts that influenced contemporary practices. Served as a physician and engaged in academic pursuits that bridged multiple disciplines. The legacy includes extensive research that laid groundwork for future medical advancements.

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Johann Valentin Andrea

German theologian focused on mysticism
Born
August 17th, 1586 438 years ago
Died
1654 371 years ago — 68 years old

A key figure in classical theology, contributed to the mystical and philosophical discourse within Christianity. Worked primarily in the realm of mystical theology and Christian humanism. Authored several works, including 'Reformatted' which emphasized a united Christian faith. Engaged with various theological movements of the time, influencing future generations of theologians and scholars.

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