What Happened This Year 1670

People Who Died in 1670

Claude Duval

French highwayman and robber
Born
1643 382 years ago
Died
January 21st, 1670 355 years ago — 27 years old

Active as a highwayman in England during the 17th century, one individual became notorious for robbing wealthy travelers. Initially from France, this figure gained a reputation for charm and gallantry, often treating victims with courtesy. The exploits included daring robberies and evasion of capture in the English countryside, where encounters became the subject of folklore. Captured in 1670, this individual was sentenced to death and executed, leading to an enduring legacy in tales of outlaw life and highway robbery.

Continue Reading

Nicholas Francis

Duke of Lorraine and Bar
Born
1612 413 years ago
Died
January 25th, 1670 355 years ago — 58 years old

Served as Duke of Lorraine and Bar during the 17th century. Played a significant role in the politics of the region, especially during the conflicts involving the Habsburgs and France. Oversaw the administration and defense of his duchy amidst ongoing wars, including the Thirty Years' War. His reign saw both political challenges and the continuation of local traditions in governance.

Continue Reading

Frederick III of Denmark

King of Denmark; introduced absolutism
Born
March 18th, 1609 416 years ago
Died
February 9th, 1670 355 years ago — 60 years old

Ruled as the King of Denmark from 1648 until death in 1670. Initiated a transformation in governance towards absolutism. Oversaw the consolidation of royal power and the establishment of a more centralized state. Engaged in conflicts during the Northern Wars, which influenced territorial borders in the region. Strengthened Danish influence in Northern Europe.

Continue Reading

Leonora Baroni

Italian composer of sacred music
Born
1611 414 years ago
Died
April 6th, 1670 355 years ago — 59 years old

Active in the 17th century, contributed significantly to sacred music. Produced a number of compositions that were performed in various ecclesiastical settings. Stood out as one of the few female composers of the time, with a focus on vocal music. The works often reflected the liturgical requirements of the period and demonstrated an understanding of musical form and expression. Remained influential posthumously, with some works still being studied and performed in contemporary settings.

Continue Reading

Niccolò Zucchi

Italian astronomer and physicist
Born
December 6th, 1586 438 years ago
Died
May 21st, 1670 354 years ago — 83 years old

Contributed to the fields of astronomy and physics during the 17th century. Conducted extensive studies on the nature of light and optics, proposing theories on the composition of sunlight. Developed one of the early telescopes and observed Jupiter's moons. Authored several works, including writings on the atmosphere of the moon.

Continue Reading

Ferdinando II de' Medici

Grand Duke of Tuscany, patron of arts
Born
July 14th, 1610 414 years ago
Died
May 23rd, 1670 354 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1610, served as Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1621 until death in 1670. Oversaw a period of cultural flourishing in Tuscany, supporting artists, architects, and scientists. Promoted the sciences and arts, establishing the Accademia del Cimento, one of the first scientific academies. Managed diplomatic relations and territorial administration, strengthening the Medici family's influence in Italy. His reign is marked by significant contributions to culture and science, reflected in the works of notable individuals supported during this period.

Continue Reading

John Davenport

English minister, co-founder of New Haven
Born
April 9th, 1597 428 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1670 354 years ago — 73 years old

An English minister established the New Haven Colony in 1638. This settlement served as a significant Puritan community and contributed to early colonial governance. With a strong emphasis on religious and civic life, the colony adhered to strict Puritan principles. In addition to his role in founding New Haven, this minister was involved in various religious and civic activities, promoting a theocratic model of governance that influenced later developments in the American colonies. His leadership helped shape the social structure and community values within the colony until his death.

Continue Reading

Henrietta of England

Queen consort of England
Born
1644 381 years ago
Died
June 30th, 1670 354 years ago — 26 years old

Married Charles I of England in 1625, becoming the queen consort during the tumultuous period of the English Civil War. Henrietta spent much of her life in France and served as a royal representative for her husband. She supported royalist causes and played a key role in the defense of the monarchy. At times acted as a diplomatic figure, negotiating with foreign powers for support against Parliament.

Continue Reading

John Amos Comenius

Czech bishop and educational reformer
Born
March 28th, 1592 433 years ago
Died
November 15th, 1670 354 years ago — 78 years old

A significant figure in education, emphasized the importance of systematic and universal education. Developed innovative teaching methods and progressive ideas that formed a foundation for modern pedagogical practices. Advocated for education that included natural sciences, arts, and moral instruction. Wrote numerous works, including 'Didactica Magna', which presented his educational theories and vision for a comprehensive schooling system.

Continue Reading