What Happened This Year 1656

People Who Died in 1656

Mathieu Molé

French politician and statesman
Born
1584 441 years ago
Died
January 3rd, 1656 369 years ago — 72 years old

Served as a prominent French politician in the 17th century, holding various important positions. Became a member of the Parlement of Paris, eventually rising to the role of president. Played a significant part in the political landscape during the early years of the reign of Louis XIV. Participated in efforts to maintain the judicial independence of the Parlement against royal authority.

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James Ussher

Irish Archbishop and biblical scholar
Born
January 4th, 1581 444 years ago
Died
March 21st, 1656 368 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1581, served as Archbishop of Armagh in Ireland and was a prominent historian and theologian. Ussher is particularly recognized for his work on biblical chronology, culminating in the publication of 'Annales veteris testamenti, a prima mundi origine', which proposed a timeline for the creation of the world. His calculations suggested that the creation occurred in 4004 BC. Ussher also engaged in debates regarding the nature of the Biblical canon and the authority of scripture. His scholarly pursuits contributed significantly to the understanding of early church history and biblical interpretation during the 17th century.

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Thomas Fincke

Danish mathematician and physicist
Born
January 6th, 1561 464 years ago
Died
April 24th, 1656 368 years ago — 95 years old

A mathematician and physicist focused on mathematics and physics. Contributed to the fields with notable works. Authored 'Geometria' and 'Arithmetica', which were influential in mathematical education during the Renaissance. Had a significant impact on the mathematical community, especially in Denmark.

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Jan van Goyen

Dutch painter known for landscape paintings
Born
January 13th, 1596 429 years ago
Died
April 27th, 1656 368 years ago — 60 years old

Active during the Dutch Golden Age, this painter specialized in landscape paintings characterized by their serene compositions and atmospheric effects. Van Goyen's works often featured rivers, windmills, and rural scenes, reflecting the beauty of the Dutch countryside. He contributed to the development of Dutch landscape painting and was influential among his contemporaries. His technique involved the use of a restricted palette to create a sense of harmony in his pieces. Besides painting, van Goyen worked as an illustrator, creating works for books and other publications.

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Salomo Glassius

Theologian and Biblical critic
Born
1593 432 years ago
Died
July 27th, 1656 368 years ago — 63 years old

Contributed significantly to biblical exegesis and theology in the 17th century. Authored several works that examined the scriptures from a critical perspective. Emphasized the importance of context and language in understanding biblical texts. Served as a professor of theology at the University of Jena, shaping theological thought during this period.

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Ottavio Piccolomini

Austrian-Italian field marshal
Born
November 11th, 1599 425 years ago
Died
August 11th, 1656 368 years ago — 56 years old

Served as a prominent military commander in the Thirty Years' War, contributing significantly to the successes of the Imperial army. Gained recognition for strategic prowess and effective leadership in battles such as the Battle of White Mountain and the Siege of Magdeburg. Advanced through ranks due to successful campaigns and alliances, ultimately attaining the title of Field Marshal. Appointed governor of various territories, managing military and political affairs with notable efficacy.

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Joseph Hall

English bishop and mystic
Born
July 1st, 1574 450 years ago
Died
September 8th, 1656 368 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1574, this figure served as an influential bishop in the Church of England and was recognized for his contributions to religious literature. A proponent of the Church's role in society, this individual wrote extensively on various theological topics and engaged in debates of the time. The works produced included sermons and writings that reflected on the nature of spirituality and governance. The bishop's mysticism and views contributed to the religious discourse of the early 17th century.

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Myles Standish

English captain and military leader
Born
1584 441 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1656 368 years ago — 72 years old

An English military officer who played a significant role in the early colonial period of North America. Standish served as the captain of the Plymouth Colony militia and was a key figure among the early settlers. He arrived on the Mayflower in 1620 and participated in the establishment of the Plymouth settlement. In his capacity as military leader, he was responsible for the defense of the colony against various Native American tribes, contributing to the settlement's survival during its formative years. Standish's leadership also included negotiations and interactions with indigenous peoples, shaping early European relations in the New World.

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John George I

Elector of Saxony during the Thirty Years' War
Born
March 5th, 1585 440 years ago
Died
October 8th, 1656 368 years ago — 71 years old

Born in 1585, served as Elector of Saxony from 1611 until death in 1656. Played a significant role in the Thirty Years' War, initially aligning with the Protestant states in the Holy Roman Empire. In 1635, signed the Treaty of Prague, which sought to bring stability to the war-torn region. Focused on strengthening the economic and political power of Saxony during a period of upheaval. Engaged in various military campaigns to protect the interests of Saxony.

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