What Happened This Year 1663

People Who Died in 1663

Isaac Ambrose

English minister and author of books
Born
1604 421 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1663 362 years ago — 59 years old

Served as a minister in England and contributed to religious literature during the 17th century. Focused on spiritual guidance and theological writings that reflected the religious context of the time. Authored several significant works, including 'Looking Unto Jesus', which emphasized the role of Jesus in the Christian faith. Became a prominent figure in the religious community and influenced various readers through his writings, which often engaged deeply with scripture.

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Francis Cooke

English-American settler
Born
1583 442 years ago
Died
April 7th, 1663 361 years ago — 80 years old

Settled in Plymouth Colony in 1620 and became one of the original passengers on the Mayflower. Engaged in various endeavors to support the colony's economy, including farming and trade. Held positions of responsibility, contributing to the development of the early colonial infrastructure. Took part in local governance and was a significant figure in the community throughout life. Death occurred in 1663.

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William Juxon

English Archbishop and academic leader
Born
1582 443 years ago
Died
June 4th, 1663 361 years ago — 81 years old

Served as the Bishop of London and later as Archbishop of Canterbury. Played a significant role in the Church of England during the Stuart period, particularly during the English Civil War. Acted as a royalist supporter and counselor to King Charles I, overseeing the King's funeral following his execution. Contributed to the academic community as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford and was involved in ecclesiastical governance throughout his career. Influenced church policies and educational standards during a time of significant political and religious upheaval.

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Nzinga of Ndongo and Matamba

Queen and diplomat of Ndongo
Born
1583 442 years ago
Died
December 17th, 1663 361 years ago — 80 years old

Ruled as the Queen of Ndongo and Matamba during the 17th century. Engaged in resistance against Portuguese colonization in Angola. Established diplomatic relations with various European powers and advocated for her people's autonomy. Played a significant role in the political landscape of her time, navigating complex alliances and conflicts to strengthen her kingdoms. Successfully led military campaigns against Portuguese forces, displaying strategic acumen in protecting her territory and sovereignty.

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Francesco Maria Grimaldi

Italian mathematician and physicist, wave theory
Born
April 2nd, 1618 406 years ago
Died
December 28th, 1663 361 years ago — 45 years old

Born in 1618, significant contributions to the fields of mathematics and physics were made. Grimaldi is recognized for his studies in optics and the wave theory of light. His experimentation with diffraction led to a better understanding of light behavior. These contributions were foundational for subsequent optical research.

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Thomas Selle

German composer of sacred music
Born
March 23rd, 1599 425 years ago
Died
1663 362 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1599, a prominent composer emerged, contributing significantly to the genre of sacred music during the early Baroque period. Active in Germany, he published numerous works that emphasized the integration of melody and harmony within liturgical settings. His compositions often featured intricate vocal lines and were composed for various ensembles, influencing contemporaneous music styles. Worked in several churches and courts, establishing a reputation for both vocal and instrumental works, including motets and hymns. His music remains preserved in various collections, continuing to be studied and performed by modern musicians.

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Balthazar Gerbier

Dutch painter specialized in landscapes
Born
February 23rd, 1592 433 years ago
Died
1663 362 years ago — 71 years old

Born in the Dutch Republic, contributed significantly to the art world as a painter, particularly known for landscape paintings. Active during the 17th century, developed a distinctive style characterized by meticulous detail and rich color palettes. Works often featured idealized natural settings and were influenced by the prevailing artistic trends of the time.

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Christine of France

Duchess of Savoy, patron of the arts
Born
February 10th, 1606 419 years ago
Died
1663 362 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1606, a noble of France, played a significant role in the political landscape of Europe during the 17th century. The daughter of Henry IV of France, became Duchess of Savoy through marriage to Vittorio Amedeo I. Amidst the political turmoil, focused on the promotion of culture and the arts, establishing a court known for artistic patronage in Savoy. Provided strong support for various artists and intellectuals, contributing to the cultural development of the region. Gained a reputation for her diplomatic skills and was involved in the marital negotiations to strengthen alliances across Europe.

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Thomas Bruce

Scottish nobleman and art collector
Born
December 2nd, 1599 425 years ago
Died
1663 362 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1599, this Scottish nobleman served as the 1st Earl of Elgin. Active during the 17th century, he was involved in various diplomatic missions and held significant influence in his time. The Earl is best remembered for his acquisition of classical sculptures from the Parthenon in Athens, which he brought to Britain in the early 1800s. These collections would later become a cornerstone of the British Museum's collection, igniting debates over cultural heritage and repatriation.

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