What Happened This Year 1666

Historical Events from This Year 1666 (View all 7)

Military & Warfare

Holmes's Bonfire: The Raid on Terschelling

August 19th, 1666 358 years ago

Rear Admiral Robert Holmes led a daring raid on the Dutch island of Terschelling, strategically targeting Dutch merchant ships. His forces succeeded in obliterating approximately 150 vessels, causing significant economic disruption to the Dutch maritime trade. The audacious attack not only showcased British naval prowess but also intensified the ongoing conflicts of the Second Anglo-Dutch War, reflecting the fierce rivalry between England and the Netherlands during this period.

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Natural Disasters

Devastating Great Fire of London Ignites

September 2nd, 1666 358 years ago

The Great Fire of London began in a bakery on Pudding Lane and quickly spread across the city, fueled by wooden buildings and dry conditions. Lasting for three days, the fire devastated a large portion of London, engulfing around 10,000 structures including the iconic Old St. Paul's Cathedral. Despite efforts to extinguish the flames, including the demolition of buildings to create firebreaks, the blaze wreaked havoc, leaving thousands homeless and drastically changing the city’s landscape.

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Natural Disasters

The Royal Exchange devastated by Great Fire

September 3rd, 1666 358 years ago

The Royal Exchange, a prominent center for trade in London, was consumed by flames during the Great Fire of London, marking a significant loss for the city’s commercial infrastructure. Built in 1566, the Exchange not only facilitated commerce but also represented the economic spirit of London. The fire, which started on September 2, spread rapidly due to dry weather and wooden structures, ultimately engulfing a large area, including the Royal Exchange, by September 5. This destruction symbolized the vulnerabilities in urban architecture, as fire swept through the city, causing chaos and displacing many citizens.

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Natural Disasters

Destruction of London by the Great Fire

September 4th, 1666 358 years ago

The Great Fire of London resulted in extensive destruction, primarily occurring on September 4, 1666. The blaze spread quickly through the city, fueled by strong winds and flammable buildings. Key structures like St. Paul's Cathedral were threatened, leading to widespread dislocation as inhabitants fled. The fire was particularly catastrophic in areas like Pudding Lane, where it started in a bakery owned by Thomas Farriner. This pivotal moment reshaped London's landscape and infrastructure.

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Natural Disasters

Destruction of Thousands of Buildings in London

September 5th, 1666 358 years ago

A devastating fire swept through London, destroying around ten thousand buildings, including the iconic Old St Paul's Cathedral. The fire began in a bakery on Pudding Lane and rapidly spread due to the close proximity of wooden structures, strong winds, and the lack of effective firefighting techniques. Despite the massive destruction, the death toll remained surprisingly low, with only six confirmed fatalities. The inferno lasted nearly four days and significantly altered the city's landscape and architecture.

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Natural Disasters

Devastating Tornado Strikes Lincolnshire

October 23rd, 1666 358 years ago

An unprecedented tornado, classified as F4, swept through Lincolnshire, delivering winds that exceeded 213 miles per hour. Witnesses reported widespread destruction, uprooted trees, and severely damaged structures. The tornado carved a path of devastation across the landscape, affecting local communities and altering the region's geography. This extraordinary meteorological phenomenon remains one of the most intense in English history, leaving an unforgettable mark on the area and its inhabitants.

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Born in 1666 (View all 16)

Antonio Maria Valsalva

Italian anatomist and physician
Born
January 17th, 1666 359 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1723 302 years ago — 57 years old

Contributed significantly to the fields of anatomy and otology. Conducted extensive studies on the anatomy of the ear and introduced detailed descriptions of the middle ear, which laid the foundation for future research in this area. Published works on anatomy, including the influential book 'De Aure Humana,' which detailed the structure of the ear and its functions. Worked at the University of Bologna, influencing medical education and practice in Italy during the late 17th century.

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Marie Thérèse de Bourbon

Princess of Conti and titular queen
Born
February 1st, 1666 359 years ago
Died
1732 293 years ago — 66 years old

Born into the House of Bourbon, served as Princess of Conti and held the title of titular queen of Poland. Her marriage to Louis Armand de Bourbon, Prince of Conti, aligned her with significant French nobility. Despite not ruling Poland, the title symbolized her family's influence in European politics. The marriage produced several children, continuing the Bourbon legacy.

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George Hamilton

Scottish-English field marshal and politician
Born
February 9th, 1666 359 years ago
Died
January 29th, 1737 288 years ago — 70 years old

Served as a field marshal and politician in the British military. Held the title of 1st Earl of Orkney and was a prominent figure in military circles. Appointed Colonial Governor of Virginia, overseeing colonial administration and governance in the 18th century. Contributed to military strategy during various engagements and played a significant role in the military structure of the time.

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George Bähr

Architect, designer of Dresden Frauenkirche
Born
March 15th, 1666 359 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1738 286 years ago — 72 years old

A prominent architect focused on sacred buildings in Germany, contributed significantly to Baroque architecture. Designed the Dresden Frauenkirche, a remarkable example of Protestant church architecture. The church, completed in 1743 after his death, features a stunning dome and intricate details, exemplifying the height of architectural achievement in the period. Bähr's work has influenced the design of numerous other churches and structures in Europe.

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Jean-Féry Rebel

French violinist and composer
Born
April 18th, 1666 358 years ago
Died
1747 278 years ago — 81 years old

A violinist and composer active in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Contributed to the development of the French violin style through innovative compositions and performances. Rebel's works blended the rigorous style of the French Baroque with Italian influences. His notable compositions include 'Les Éléments,' an orchestral suite depicting the four elements, which showcased his skill in blending themes and musical forms. His influence on other composers and violinists of the time helped to shape the future of violin music in France.

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Victor Amadeus II of Sardinia

Duke of Savoy and King of Sicily
Born
May 14th, 1666 358 years ago
Died
1732 293 years ago — 66 years old

Ascended to the throne as Duke of Savoy in 1675 and later became King of Sicily in 1713. Initiated several military campaigns during the War of the Spanish Succession to secure territorial gains. Formulated the Treaty of Utrecht which recognized Savoy's territorial claims in exchange for support against France. His reign contributed significantly to the political landscape of Italy during the late 17th to early 18th centuries.

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People Who Died in 1666 (View all 20)

Anne of Austria

Queen and regent of France
Born
August 16th, 1573 451 years ago
Died
January 20th, 1666 359 years ago — 92 years old

Served as queen consort of France from 1615 to 1643 and as regent from 1643 until 1651. Played a significant role in the early reign of Louis XIV during his minority, navigating complex political landscapes marked by power struggles. Actively participated in the intrigues of the Fronde, a series of civil wars in France. Key in solidifying the influence of the monarchy against the nobility and maintaining stability during turbulent times.

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Shah Jahan

Mughal emperor and architect of the Taj Mahal
Born
January 5th, 1592 433 years ago
Died
January 22nd, 1666 359 years ago — 74 years old

Ascended to the throne in 1628 as the fifth Mughal emperor. His reign from 1628 to 1658 was marked by significant architectural achievements, most notably the construction of the Taj Mahal in Agra, a mausoleum built in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is regarded as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture, combining elements from Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles. Jahan's rule also saw the expansion of the Mughal Empire and a flourishing of culture and the arts. His later years were marred by conflict with his son, Aurangzeb, who eventually imprisoned him.

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Johann Andreas Herbst

German composer and musical theorist
Born
June 9th, 1588 436 years ago
Died
January 24th, 1666 359 years ago — 77 years old

A significant figure in the development of music theory and composition, contributions include a variety of theoretical works and musical compositions. Published several treatises that explored different aspects of harmony and musical structure, which were influential in the education of musicians in his time. Worked during the early Baroque period, creating a foundation for later developments in music.

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Nicholas Lanier

English composer and painter
Born
September 10th, 1588 436 years ago
Died
February 24th, 1666 359 years ago — 77 years old

Contributed to the arts in England during the 17th century as a composer and painter. Worked as a court musician for King Charles I, also holding the position of master of the children at the Chapel Royal. Composed several pieces for voice and instruments, influencing the development of English music during his time. Created various paintings and was recognized for his artistic talents.

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Sir Richard Fanshawe

Poet and diplomat, English Ambassador
Born
1608 417 years ago
Died
June 16th, 1666 358 years ago — 58 years old

This individual served as an English diplomat and poet during the 17th century. Appointed as the Ambassador to Spain, he worked to maintain diplomatic relations between England and Spain. His literary contributions include poetry that reflects the themes of his time. His role as a diplomat involved critical negotiations and communication efforts that were significant in the context of English-Spanish relations.

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Albert VI

Duke of Bavaria, military leader
Born
February 26th, 1584 441 years ago
Died
July 5th, 1666 358 years ago — 82 years old

Born in 1584, served as Duke of Bavaria from 1623 until his death in 1632. Participated in the Thirty Years' War, aligning Bavaria with the Catholic League and engaging in numerous battles against Protestant forces. Under leadership, Bavaria strengthened its military and political position in the Holy Roman Empire. His reign was marked by efforts to consolidate power and expand territorial influence through strategic alliances.

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