What Happened This Year 1680

Historical Events from This Year 1680

Politics & Government

Trunajaya Executed by Amangkurat II

January 2nd, 1680 345 years ago

Amangkurat II of Mataram executed Trunajaya, the rebel leader, marking a significant turn in the power struggle within the Mataram Sultanate. Trunajaya had led a rebellion against the Mataram ruling class, gaining traction among local nobles and commoners. The execution was carried out by Amangkurat's bodyguards, showcasing the Sultan's resolve to eliminate threats to his rule. This event solidified Amangkurat's power but also stirred ongoing dissent among the populace.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Pueblo Revolt against Spanish Rule

August 10th, 1680 344 years ago

The Pueblo people initiated a coordinated uprising against Spanish colonial rule in present-day New Mexico, driven by oppression and religious persecution. Led by figures such as Popé, the revolt aimed to reclaim their land and cultural practices while attacking Spanish missions and settlements. The Pueblo people leveraged their knowledge of the land, organizing an effective resistance against the colonizers, marking a significant challenge to Spanish authority in the region.

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Military & Warfare

Pueblo Indians Seize Control of Santa Fe

August 21st, 1680 344 years ago

In 1680, Pueblo Indians launched a coordinated uprising against Spanish colonial rule, successfully capturing Santa Fe, the capital of Nuevo México. The revolt was driven by years of religious oppression, forced labor, and cultural imposition by Spanish settlers. The indigenous groups, led by figures such as Popé of the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo, aimed to restore their autonomy and traditional practices. The uprising culminated in an attack on August 21, where the Pueblo insurgents overpowered Spanish garrisons and expelled the colonists from the region, marking a significant turning point in colonial relations in the Southwest.

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Space Exploration

Gottfried Kirch Discovers the Great Comet

November 14th, 1680 344 years ago

Gottfried Kirch, a German astronomer, discovered the Great Comet of 1680 using a telescope in November. This comet, officially designated C/1680 V1, became notable as the first comet observed with a telescope and swiftly captured the attention of astronomers across Europe. Kirch’s observations allowed for more accurate tracking of its path and characteristics, enhancing the understanding of cometary phenomena. His work contributed significantly to the field of astronomy and the observational capabilities of the time.

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Born in 1680 (View all 9)

Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne

Canadian politician, Governor of Louisiana
Born
February 23rd, 1680 345 years ago
Died
March 7th, 1767 258 years ago — 87 years old

Sieur de Bienville served as the 2nd Colonial Governor of Louisiana. Arriving in New France as a teenager, significant contributions to the development and administration of the colony occurred. Established the city of New Orleans in 1718, which became a critical port in the region. Focused on trade relationships with Native American tribes and expanded French territorial claims in North America. His leadership included efforts to strengthen the infrastructure and economy of the Louisiana territory during the early 18th century.

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Philippe Néricault Destouches

French playwright and dramatist
Born
April 9th, 1680 344 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1754 270 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent French playwright in the early 18th century, significant contributions include the development of the comedic form in French theater. Destouches wrote numerous plays that showcased wit and social commentary. His work was notable for clever dialogue and engaging narratives, which appealed to contemporary audiences. His plays were performed at prestigious venues, contributing to the theatrical landscape of the time. Many works are celebrated for their character development and humor.

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Jean-Baptiste Stuck

Cellist and composer of baroque music
Born
May 6th, 1680 344 years ago
Died
1755 270 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1680, significant contributions to the baroque music scene occurred. Stuck engaged in the composition of various works for cello and chamber music. As a cellist, performed in prominent orchestras, showcasing virtuosic skills and influencing future generations of musicians. His works were integral to the development of string music during the baroque period.

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Ebenezer Erskine

Scottish minister and theologian
Born
June 22nd, 1680 344 years ago
Died
June 2nd, 1754 270 years ago — 73 years old

Born in 1680, contributed significantly to the development of Scottish Presbyterian thought. Served as a minister in the Church of Scotland, advocating for ecclesiastical independence. Established the Associate Presbytery in 1733 after being deposed from the Church of Scotland for opposing patronage. His writings addressed theological concerns and church governance, influencing the Scottish Reformation.

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Barthold Heinrich Brockes

German poet and playwright, 'Irdisches Vergnügen in Gott'.
Born
September 22nd, 1680 344 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1747 278 years ago — 66 years old

Brockes was a prominent German poet and playwright from the 18th century. He contributed significantly to the German literary scene with his works that often infused nature with spiritual reflection. His notable work, 'Irdisches Vergnügen in Gott', celebrated the beauty of the natural world while expressing devotion to God. In addition to poetry, Brockes engaged in translating various literary pieces and was involved in the development of German theatrical practices. His influence extended into both literary and theatrical circles during his lifetime.

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Blackbeard

Infamous English pirate of the Caribbean
Born
1680 345 years ago
Died
November 22nd, 1718 306 years ago — 38 years old

Active during the early 18th century, a notorious pirate who terrorized the West Indies and along the eastern coast of the American colonies. Commanded the ship Queen Anne's Revenge, which was instrumental in pirating activities. Built a fearsome reputation with a striking appearance, often said to have intimidated enemies with his long, lit fuses in his beard. Engaged in numerous battles with naval forces.

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People Who Died in 1680 (View all 34)

Jan Swammerdam

Dutch entomologist and biologist
Born
February 12th, 1637 388 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1680 345 years ago — 43 years old

Contributions to the study of insects and biological processes occurred through meticulous observation and dissection. Developed techniques for microscopic examination that advanced the knowledge of insect anatomy and physiology. Pioneered the use of the microscope for biological research, laying groundwork for future entomology. Observed metamorphosis and provided insights into the life cycles of insects.

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Denzil Holles

English politician and 1st Baron Holles
Born
October 31st, 1599 425 years ago
Died
February 17th, 1680 345 years ago — 80 years old

A prominent figure in English politics during the 17th century, served as a Member of Parliament and played a significant role in the political landscape of the time. Contributed to the drafting of the Instrument of Government in 1653. Engaged in various parliamentary debates and reforms during the English Civil War and the Commonwealth period. Strongly opposed King Charles I and supported the Parliamentary cause. Held positions of influence throughout the Restoration period.

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La Voisin

French occultist and fortune teller
Born
1640 385 years ago
Died
February 22nd, 1680 345 years ago — 40 years old

An influential figure in the 17th-century occult scene, this individual practiced fortune telling and alchemy in Paris. Operated a salon that attracted members of the aristocracy and the wealthy elite. Associated with scandalous witchcraft trials, which uncovered a network of practitioners involved in dubious activities. Allegations of involvement in poisoning and attempts to manipulate powerful individuals were prevalent. Convicted of witchcraft and executed, this person's life reflects the tumultuous relationship between the occult and the judicial system in France during that era.

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François de La Rochefoucauld

French author of maxims and reflections
Born
December 8th, 1558 466 years ago
Died
March 17th, 1680 344 years ago — 121 years old

A prominent 17th-century French author, recognized for contributions to literature through a collection of maxims and reflective writings. Originally part of the aristocracy, experiences during the Fronde, a series of civil wars in France, influenced the philosophical outlook. The major work, 'Réflexions ou sentences et maximes morales,' published in 1665, compiled observations on human nature and behavior, providing a window into the moral complexities of the time. The concise and epigrammatic style marked a significant development in French literature.

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Nicolas Fouquet

French politician and finance minister
Born
1615 410 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 1680 344 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the Superintendent of Finances under King Louis XIV. Fouquet played a significant role in managing the finances of France during a time of considerable war expenditure. His lavish lifestyle and the construction of the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte drew the attention of the king. In 1661, Fouquet hosted an extravagant party, which led to his arrest on charges of embezzlement and conspiracy, resulting in a life sentence in prison.

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Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

Indian emperor, founder of Maratha Empire
Born
1630 395 years ago
Died
April 3rd, 1680 344 years ago — 50 years old

Founded the Maratha Empire in the 17th century, established a competent and progressive civil rule. Implemented various administrative reforms and introduced a system of governance. Conducted numerous military campaigns against the Mughal Empire and other regional powers to expand territories. Developed a strong naval presence along the western coast of India, securing trade routes and coastal territories. Introduced the concept of cabinet governance with the establishment of the Ashta Pradhan.

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