What Happened This Year 1685

People Who Died in 1685

Friedrich Casimir

Count of Hanau-Lichtenberg and Hanau-Münzenberg
Born
August 4th, 1623 401 years ago
Died
1685 340 years ago — 62 years old

Served as Count of Hanau-Lichtenberg from 1641 until 1680 and as Count of Hanau-Münzenberg from 1642 until 1680. Engaged in administration and governance during a period marked by political complexities in the Holy Roman Empire. His tenure included the management of local affairs and efforts to maintain stability within the territories. Actively involved in the socio-economic developments of the region, supporting various initiatives aimed at enhancing the prosperity of his domains.

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Adriaen van Ostade

Dutch painter of genre scenes
Born
December 10th, 1610 414 years ago
Died
1685 340 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1610, a prominent Dutch painter focused on genre scenes depicting peasant life. Active in the 17th century, worked primarily in Haarlem. His compositions captured moments of everyday activities with a keen attention to detail and naturalism. His technique involved the use of rich colors and a strong sense of light. Contributed significantly to the tradition of Dutch genre painting, influencing future artists in the field.

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David Teniers III

Flemish painter of genre scenes
Born
July 10th, 1638 386 years ago
Died
1685 340 years ago — 47 years old

Born in 1638, a notable Flemish painter specialized in genre scenes and landscapes. Served as the court painter to the Archduke Leopold Wilhelm of Austria in Brussels. Contributed to the popularization of peasant life and rural settings in art. His works conveyed intricate details and vibrant color palettes, which became representative of the artistic style of the time. Maintained a workshop that trained many artists and produced numerous works during a significant period in Flemish painting.

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Archduchess Isabella Clara of Austria

Austrian Archduchess and Governor
Born
August 12th, 1629 395 years ago
Died
1685 340 years ago — 56 years old

Born into the House of Habsburg, held the title of Archduchess. Served as Governor of the Spanish Netherlands from 1621 until 1633. Played a significant role in the administration of the region during a time of political tension and conflict, overseeing various military and economic strategies. Engaged in diplomatic efforts to maintain peace and order in the territories allocated to her authority, including managing relations with local nobility.

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John Pell

Mathematician and linguist with notable works
Born
March 1st, 1611 414 years ago
Died
1685 340 years ago — 74 years old

Born in England in 1611, significant contributions to mathematics and linguistics characterized the work. Published several influential texts, including translations and commentaries on mathematical works. Developed and promoted the use of Arabic numerals in England. Contributed to the understanding of polynomial equations and was involved in the introduction of new mathematical concepts during the 17th century.

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Daniello Bartoli

Italian Jesuit priest and historian
Born
February 12th, 1608 417 years ago
Died
1685 340 years ago — 77 years old

Born in 1608, this Jesuit priest operated as a historian and theologian within the Society of Jesus. Engaged in extensive missionary work and education, wrote several important theological texts. Authored 'La vita di Gesù Cristo', which discussed the life of Jesus and had considerable influence within Jesuit circles. Contributed to Jesuit scholarship through writings on various subjects, including history and morality.

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Sophie Amalie of Brunswick-Lüneburg

Noblewoman and Queen Consort of Denmark
Born
March 24th, 1628 396 years ago
Died
1685 340 years ago — 57 years old

Born in 1628, a member of the House of Brunswick, married King Frederick III of Denmark. Played a key role in Danish court politics during the 17th century. Served as Queen Consort from 1648 until the king's death in 1670. Known for her involvement in the early development of the Danish royal court and support of the arts.

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Thomas Otway

English playwright, notable for 'Venice Preserved'
Born
March 3rd, 1652 373 years ago
Died
1685 340 years ago — 33 years old

An influential English playwright and author, this individual gained recognition in the late 17th century. 'Venice Preserved', a tragedy that delves into themes of political intrigue and personal betrayal, became one of the most significant works in Restoration drama. The playwright's contribution to the theatrical landscape of the time is marked by engaging narratives and complex characters, reflecting the societal issues of the period. Although experiencing the challenges of limited success during his lifetime, his works eventually garnered appreciation, showcasing the evolving nature of English theatre.

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Sir Harbottle Grimston

English lawyer and Speaker of Commons
Born
January 27th, 1603 422 years ago
Died
1685 340 years ago — 82 years old

Served as the Speaker of the House of Commons during the early 17th century. Grimston's legal career included significant involvement in parliamentary affairs, shaping legislation and guiding discussions within the House. His tenure as Speaker was marked by a commitment to maintaining order and facilitating debate among members. In addition to his role in Parliament, Grimston held the title of 2nd Baronet, reflecting his status in English society while navigating the complexities of law and governance during a tumultuous period in English history.

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