What Happened This Year 1659

All Events 7 Births 13 Deaths 13

People Who Died in 1659

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.

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.

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.

Willem Drost

Dutch painter of historical scenes

Born

April 19th, 1633 392 years ago

Died

1659 366 years ago — 26 years old

Active in the 17th century, this painter became associated with the Dutch Golden Age art movement. His notable contributions include historical and mythological subjects, often characterized by a dramatic use of light and shadow, a technique learned from interaction with Rembrandt's studio. Works included 'Portrait of a Young Man' and 'The Rape of Lucretia'. Drost's artistry reflects the essence of Baroque painting, notable for its expressions of emotion and dynamic composition. He maintained a relatively brief career, with a small but impactful catalog.