What Happened This Year 1657

Historical Events from This Year 1657

Natural Disasters

The Great Fire Devastates Edo, Japan

March 2nd, 1657 368 years ago

A massive conflagration swept through Edo, now Tokyo, igniting on a fateful day in 1657 and resulting in the destruction of much of the city and the loss of over 100,000 lives. What began as a small fire spread rapidly due to strong winds, devastating the densely populated area. Historical records recount how the blaze engulfed wooden structures and marketplaces, rendering the city a smoldering ruin within three days. The recovery efforts that followed sought to rebuild the city and re-establish the social and economic order, reshaping Edo's future.

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Politics & Government

Cromwell Declines the British Throne Offer

March 31st, 1657 367 years ago

The Long Parliament presented the Humble Petition and Advice to Oliver Cromwell, proposing that he accept the crown of England. This marked a significant moment in the power struggle between the monarchy and the parliamentary system that had evolved from the English Civil War. The offer was made in recognition of Cromwell's military leadership and governance after the war. However, Cromwell ultimately declined the offer, choosing instead to remain a Lord Protector. His decision reflected his complex views on monarchy and governance.

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Military & Warfare

Admiral Robert Blake's Assault on Spanish Fleet

April 20th, 1657 367 years ago

During a fierce conflict, English Admiral Robert Blake launched a significant attack on a Spanish silver fleet anchored at Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Despite heavy artillery fire from shore fortifications, Blake's forces managed to engage and destroy multiple vessels, capturing valuable cargo. This operation aimed to disrupt Spanish maritime trade and assert English naval power in the region.

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Religion & Philosophy

Jews Granted Freedom of Religion in New Amsterdam

April 20th, 1657 367 years ago

In 1657, Jews in New Amsterdam were granted freedom of religion, marking a significant step toward religious tolerance in the early American colonies. The policy change followed the arrival of a group of Sephardic Jews from Brazil, who sought refuge from the Inquisition. Their presence prompted Governor Peter Stuyvesant to reconsider the colonial laws prohibiting Jewish settlement. This moment was pivotal as it laid the groundwork for the future acceptance of diverse religions in the region.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Flushing Remonstrance Advocates Religious Freedom

December 27th, 1657 367 years ago

In December 1657, residents of Flushing, New York, submitted the Flushing Remonstrance, a petition that articulated a demand for religious freedom, particularly in support of Quakers, who faced persecution. This significant document asserted that freedom of religion should be a right for all, regardless of their beliefs, and it challenged the policies of the Dutch colonial government. The remonstrance was prompted by tensions between the Quakers and colonial authorities, who sought to suppress their worship. It became a foundational text in the development of religious liberty in America.

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Born in 1657 (View all 16)

William Wake

Archbishop of Canterbury, religious leader
Born
January 26th, 1657 368 years ago
Died
1737 288 years ago — 80 years old

Served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1716 until death in 1737. Played a significant role in the Church of England during the early 18th century. Contributed to theological discussions and was involved in the translation of the Bible. Promoted the interests of the church and helped to maintain its authority during a period of political and religious upheaval. Addressed the challenges posed by nonconformists and supported the Anglican community.

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Bernard Le Bovier de Fontenelle

French author and playwright
Born
February 11th, 1657 368 years ago
Died
January 9th, 1757 268 years ago — 99 years old

An influential French author, poet, and playwright, contributions included works in literature that explored science and philosophy. Wrote 'Entretiens sur la pluralité des mondes,' which discussed the universe in a manner accessible to the general public. His narratives often blended literary style with scientific ideas, making complex concepts more palatable. Held the title of perpetual secretary of the Académie française, enhancing the dialogue between science and literature.

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Samuel Werenfels

Swiss theologian and author
Born
March 1st, 1657 368 years ago
Died
June 1st, 1740 284 years ago — 83 years old

Born in 1657, this theologian served as a professor of theology at the University of Basel. His works addressed various religious and philosophical topics during the Enlightenment period. He authored significant texts that contributed to the discourse of Protestant theology, integrating critical views and rational thought. His writings were influential among contemporaries and in shaping the theological landscape in Switzerland.

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Giuseppe Ottavio Pitoni

Italian organist and composer
Born
March 18th, 1657 367 years ago
Died
February 1st, 1743 282 years ago — 85 years old

An influential Italian composer and organist, contributed significantly to the Baroque music scene. Worked primarily in Rome, where compositions included numerous choral works and motets. Also known for sacred music, particularly in the tradition of the Roman Catholic Church. Authored numerous compositions that enhanced the liturgical music of his time, combining Italian musical traditions with Counter-Reformation ideals.

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Arai Hakuseki

Japanese academic and politician
Born
March 24th, 1657 367 years ago
Died
June 29th, 1725 299 years ago — 68 years old

Born in 1657, a prominent figure in Edo-period Japan, contributed to various fields, including philosophy, politics, and education. Served as a senior councilor to the Tokugawa shogunate, advising on governance. Authored influential works on history and politics, which were instrumental in shaping the intellectual landscape of Japan. The writings often reflected Confucian thought and emphasized the importance of morality in governance.

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Sambhaji

Indian emperor of the Maratha Empire
Born
May 14th, 1657 367 years ago
Died
March 11th, 1689 336 years ago — 31 years old

Born on May 14, 1657, an Indian emperor ruled the Maratha Empire after the death of his father, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Ascended to the throne in 1681, faced numerous challenges from both Mughal forces and internal dissent. His tenure saw continuous warfare as he defended the empire against the Mughal Empire's expansion under Aurangzeb. Sambhaji also engaged in diplomatic efforts to secure alliances with other regional powers. Captured in 1689, he faced brutal treatment and execution, becoming a martyr in Maratha history.

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People Who Died in 1657 (View all 17)

Jean-Jacques Olier

French priest, founder of Society of Saint-Sulpice
Born
September 20th, 1608 416 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1657 367 years ago — 48 years old

A French priest established a religious congregation dedicated to the education of priests and pastoral care. Founded the Society of Saint-Sulpice in 1641, which aimed to promote the formation of clergy in response to the demands of the Catholic Church during the 17th century. The society significantly influenced the training of priests and was pivotal in the expansion of the church's mission in France and abroad. Advocated for the spiritual and moral development of clergy, emphasizing the importance of education and discipline in religious life.

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Ferdinand III

Holy Roman Emperor during Thirty Years' War
Born
July 13th, 1608 416 years ago
Died
April 2nd, 1657 367 years ago — 48 years old

Ascended to the position of Holy Roman Emperor in 1637, governed during a tumultuous period marked by the Thirty Years' War. Efforts included facilitating peace negotiations that culminated in the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, which ended the conflict. Managed the complexities of empire governance, facing challenges from various Protestant and Catholic factions. Advocated for a balance of power within the empire amidst rising tensions between European states. Oversaw cultural developments and fortifications within the empire's territories.

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William Bradford

Governor of Plymouth Colony
Born
1590 435 years ago
Died
May 9th, 1657 367 years ago — 67 years old

Served as the second governor of Plymouth Colony from 1621 to 1657. Played a crucial role in the settlement's establishment and governance. Spearheaded initiatives for communal farming, and promoted cooperation among settlers. Authored 'Of Plymouth Plantation', a detailed historical account of the colony's early years, which remains a vital historical source.

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Andrew Bobola

Polish missionary and martyr
Born
1591 434 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1657 367 years ago — 66 years old

A Polish Jesuit missionary worked extensively in the regions of Lithuania and Belarus during the 17th century. Engaged in missionary activities, emphasis was placed on converting the local population to Christianity, particularly among the Eastern Orthodox communities. Captured by Cossacks in 1657, endured significant torture before being martyred. Recognized for sustaining faith in the face of persecution, the individual was canonized as a saint in the Catholic Church due to the martyrdom. Celebrated on May 16 in the liturgical calendar.

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William Harvey

English physician and discoverer of circulation
Born
April 1st, 1578 446 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 1657 367 years ago — 79 years old

Born in 1578, a physician conducted foundational research on the circulatory system. Through meticulous observation and experimentation, presented groundbreaking ideas on blood circulation, significantly altering the understanding of anatomy and physiology. Published "De Motu Cordis" in 1628, outlining the movement of blood through the heart and vessels. This work laid the groundwork for modern cardiology and physiology, influencing subsequent medical practices and theories.

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Bohdan Khmelnytsky

Hetman of Ukraine during the 17th century
Born
December 27th, 1595 429 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1657 367 years ago — 61 years old

Led a major rebellion against Polish-Lithuanian rule in Ukraine, establishing the Cossack state. Played a pivotal role in the formation of the Ukrainian Cossack Hetmanate. Formed an alliance with Russia, resulting in the Treaty of Pereyaslav in 1654, which sought to protect Ukraine's autonomy while aligning it with Russia for military support.

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