Historical Events from This Year 1681
Charter Granted to William Penn by Charles II
Charles II granted a land charter to William Penn, giving him ownership of a tract of land in North America. This land would later be named Pennsylvania. The charter was part of a payment owed to Penn's father, an admiral, and was rooted in the English monarchy’s dealings with land in the New World. The charter allowed Penn to establish a colony for religious freedom and prosperity.
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Joaquín Fernández de Portocarrero
Born in 1681, this individual served as a prominent cardinal in the Roman Catholic Church during the 18th century. His contributions included significant diplomatic efforts between Spain and Italy. As a member of the clergy, he played a key role in the ecclesiastical and political affairs of the time. He participated in several important conclaves, contributing to the selection of popes. His work in the Vatican and relationships with various European powers underscored his influence in religious and diplomatic matters.
Continue ReadingHedvig Sophia of Sweden
Born in 1681, served as the Queen Consort of Sweden through marriage to King Charles XI. Represented the royal family during a turbulent period in Swedish history. Oversaw various court affairs and supported cultural and scientific endeavors in Sweden. The court life was marked by numerous ceremonial events that contributed to the legacy of the Swedish monarchy. Her influence extended to the upbringing of royal children and maintaining alliances through marriage.
Continue ReadingVitus Bering
Born in Denmark, this explorer became a significant figure in Russian exploration during the 18th century. Bering commanded the First and Second Kamchatka Expeditions, which aimed to explore the North Pacific and the coasts of Russia and Alaska. The expeditions provided crucial knowledge about the geography and indigenous peoples of these areas. The Bering Strait, separating Russia and Alaska, is named in his honor, highlighting his contributions to mapping and understanding the region.
Continue ReadingJohann Gottlieb Heineccius
Contributed significantly to the development of legal education and scholarship in Germany. Focused on the teaching of law at the University of Halle, where rigorous academic principles were introduced. Authored numerous works on the foundations of law, emphasizing the integration of moral philosophy into legal studies. Helped shape modern legal thought through systematic analysis and synthesis of laws.
Continue ReadingJohann Mattheson
Contributed significantly to music theory and lexicography in the Baroque period. Authored several key works, including 'Der vollkommene Capellmeister,' which explored compositional techniques and the role of the conductor. Composed operas and vocal music, notably 'Boris Gudunov,' which gained attention during his lifetime. Facilitated discussions on music and aesthetics through writings and his involvement in musical circles.
Continue ReadingGiulia Lama
Born in Italy in 1681, a prominent painter of the Baroque period, contributed to the art scene primarily through portraiture and religious subjects. Trained under significant artists of the time, developed a unique style that blended realism with expressive emotion. Worked extensively in Venetian and Bolognese circles, gaining recognition for skillful use of light and shadow. Some works include portraits of notable figures and religious commissions for churches. Active during the late 17th and early 18th centuries, established a reputation that endured beyond her lifetime.
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Richard Allestree
An English priest and academic, contributions included notable works in theology and literature. Served as a chaplain and held positions at various colleges, notably at All Souls College, Oxford. Wrote extensively, with his most recognized work being 'The Gentleman's Calling', which outlined the responsibilities and virtues of gentlemen in society. Influenced the religious and educational landscape of the time through writings and sermons.
Continue ReadingPedro Calderón de la Barca
Born in 1600, this individual became a prominent figure in Spanish literature, particularly during the Golden Age. His extensive body of work included over 200 plays, with notable contributions to both comedies and dramas. One of the most significant works is 'La vida es sueño' ('Life is a Dream'), a philosophical play that explores fate and freedom. He also wrote 'El alcalde de Zalamea', which reflects themes of honor and social justice. In addition to plays, compositions of poetry added to his literary stature. His influence extended to theater conventions and dramatic structures, solidifying his place in literary history.
Continue ReadingCornelis Saftleven
Specialized in genre painting, depicting scenes of daily life in a realistic manner. Active during the 17th century, produced numerous works that captured various aspects of daily Dutch life. His paintings often featured peasant themes, tavern scenes, and rural settings. Contributed significantly to the development of genre painting in the Dutch Golden Age, influencing later artists. Saftleven worked in a style characterized by a keen observation of human behavior and detail in his subjects.
Continue ReadingWilliam Lilly
Born in England, a prominent astrologer and author emerged during the 17th century. Gained recognition through the publication of 'Christian Astrology' in 1647, which became a foundational text in the field of astrology. He also produced almanacs, achieving significant popularity among the public. His work combined astrology with religion, reflecting the cultural beliefs of the time. In addition to astrology, engaged in a number of legal disputes, advocating for the practice of astrology in a society increasingly skeptical of the discipline. Lilly's writings contributed to the popularity of astrology in England and influenced future practitioners in the field.
Continue ReadingOliver Plunkett
Born in 1625, served as the Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland. His tenure coincided with a time of religious strife and persecution in Ireland. Plunkett was a staunch defender of Catholicism and worked to strengthen the faith among the Irish people. In 1679, he was arrested on charges of conspiring against the English government and was later executed in 1681. Plunkett was canonized in 1975, recognized for his unwavering commitment to his faith and his role as a martyr.
Continue ReadingUrian Oakes
A figure in early American colonial education and religion, Urian Oakes served as a minister and educator in New England. His tenure included roles at Harvard College, where he contributed to the institution's development. Oakes emphasized the importance of classical learning and religious instruction in higher education. He held the position of president at Harvard College from 1675 until his death in 1681. Oakes also played a significant role in the ministerial community, focusing on the spiritual guidance of his congregants and fostering educational initiatives in the region.
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