What Happened This Year 1659

People Who Died in 1659

Dara Shikoh

Indian prince and Mughal scholar
Born
March 20th, 1615 410 years ago
Died
1659 366 years ago — 44 years old

Born into the Mughal royal family, a prominent figure during the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan, focused on philosophical inquiries and cultural exchanges. Advocated for the study of various religions, particularly emphasizing similarities between Hinduism and Islam. Served as the governor of several provinces, including Punjab and Ajmer. Engaged in conflicts for succession, notably against his brother Aurangzeb. Eventually imprisoned and later executed due to political rivalries. Authored works that merged spiritual and philosophical thoughts, contributing significantly to Mughal intellectual life.

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Peter Bulkley

Puritan minister and early American settler
Born
January 31st, 1583 442 years ago
Died
1659 366 years ago — 76 years old

Born in England, a Puritan minister emigrated to America in the early 1630s. Settled in what is now Concord, Massachusetts, and played a significant role in the founding of the town. Bulkley advocated for a theocratic government and was involved in the establishment of the First Church in Concord. His sermons emphasized moral living and the importance of community. Bulkley was instrumental in shaping the religious landscape of the new colony through his leadership and dedication to Puritan ideals.

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Ii Naotaka

Japanese daimyō and military leader
Born
March 16th, 1590 435 years ago
Died
1659 366 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1590, this individual served as a daimyō during the early Edo period in Japan. Notably, this figure was entrusted with the governorship of the Takamatsu Domain. In the service of the Tokugawa shogunate, this daimyō played a significant role in maintaining local governance and stability. The leadership style emphasized loyalty and military readiness. The influence extended into the cultural sphere as well, fostering the arts within the domain.

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Jérôme le Royer de la Dauversière

French religious leader, founder of Société Notre-Dame de Montréal
Born
March 18th, 1597 428 years ago
Died
1659 366 years ago — 62 years old

A French religious leader played a crucial role in the establishment of Montreal in Canada. In 1636, founded the Société Notre-Dame de Montréal, an organization dedicated to the settlement and evangelization of New France. The group's efforts contributed to the development of one of the first organized communities in the region, influencing the Catholic mission in North America. Through the Société, initiated various religious and social activities that aimed to support the settlers and promote Christianity among Indigenous peoples. His work laid the groundwork for future growth and development of Montreal as a significant cultural and economic center.

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