What Happened This Year 1696

People Who Died in 1696

Ivan V of Russia

Tsar of Russia during the 17th century
Born
September 6th, 1666 358 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1696 329 years ago — 29 years old

Born in 1666, ruled as Tsar of Russia from 1682 until 1696. Ascended the throne alongside his half-brother, Peter the Great, with whom shared power. Ivan's reign was marked by struggles with health, leading to limited personal involvement in governance. His co-regency with Peter the Great influenced the direction of Russian policy significantly. Following Ivan's death, Peter continued reforms that transformed Russia into a major European power.

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Jean Domat

French jurist and legal theorist
Born
November 30th, 1625 399 years ago
Died
March 14th, 1696 329 years ago — 70 years old

A prominent figure in the development of French legal thought, Domat contributed significantly to the systematization of laws in France. His works laid foundational principles for civil law, emphasizing the importance of reason and justice in legal frameworks. Domat's most influential work, 'Les Loix civiles dans leur ordre naturel', established a comprehensive organization of civil law, which influenced subsequent legal systems. His writings sought to synthesize and clarify the complexities of existing laws, promoting a more coherent legal structure for the French nation. Domat was also involved in various legal reforms during his career, advocating for a logical application of law in society. His approach set the stage for the codification of laws that followed.

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Marie de Rabutin-Chantal

French author of famous letters
Born
February 5th, 1626 399 years ago
Died
April 17th, 1696 328 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1626, a notable French author and aristocrat, celebrated for a series of letters addressed to her daughter. The letters, reflecting personal observations and sentiments, provided insights into 17th-century French society, culture, and the lives of the aristocracy. This extensive correspondence remains a significant literary work, admired for its style and wit. The letters continue to be studied for their historical significance and contribution to French literature.

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Robert Plot

English chemist and academic known for work in geology
Born
December 13th, 1640 384 years ago
Died
April 30th, 1696 328 years ago — 55 years old

Contributed to the foundational fields of geology and natural history. Conducted studies on fossils and minerals, emphasizing the analysis of the earth's materials. Published 'The Natural History of Staffordshire' in 1686, detailing the region's geology and quarrying practices. Served as the first curator of the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, where valuable specimens were cataloged and displayed.

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Mariana of Austria

Queen consort of Spain
Born
December 24th, 1635 389 years ago
Died
May 16th, 1696 328 years ago — 60 years old

Mariana served as the queen consort of Spain from 1649 until her husband's death in 1665. Born in Austria, she married King Philip IV of Spain. Following the death of Philip IV, she acted as regent for her son, Charles II, during his minority. Her reign coincided with significant political and economic challenges for Spain, including conflicts and the decline of its empire.

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Henry Capell

English politician and Lord Lieutenant
Born
1638 387 years ago
Died
May 30th, 1696 328 years ago — 58 years old

1st Baron Capell of Tewkesbury served as an English politician during the late 17th century. Appointed as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, held a significant role in the governance of Ireland during a tumultuous period. Active in the political arena, engaged in the affairs surrounding the English Civil War and its aftermath. Managed various administrative duties and fostered relations between England and Ireland, impacting the political landscape of the time.

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John III Sobieski

King of Poland and military leader
Born
August 17th, 1629 395 years ago
Died
June 17th, 1696 328 years ago — 66 years old

Born in 1629, ascended to the throne of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth in 1674. Led the Christian coalition during the Battle of Vienna in 1683, successfully defending Europe against the Ottoman Empire. His leadership during this decisive battle earned him recognition as a key figure in European history. Engaged in numerous military campaigns to secure and expand the territories of the Commonwealth. Oversaw a period of significant military and diplomatic activities aimed at strengthening Poland's position in Europe until his death in 1696.

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Robert Campbell of Glenlyon

Scottish soldier and politician
Born
1630 395 years ago
Died
August 2nd, 1696 328 years ago — 66 years old

Served as a Scottish soldier and politician in the late 17th century. Participated in military campaigns during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms. Engaged in conflicts involving the Scottish Highlands, including significant battles in which he led troops. Played a role in local governance and land ownership in Scotland, reflecting the complexities of Scots society during this period. His family lineage had ties to the Campbell clan, which further influenced his legacy in Scottish history. Died in 1696, leaving behind a historical context of his military and political endeavors.

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Empress Meishō of Japan

Japanese Empress and ruler during Edo period
Born
January 9th, 1624 401 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1696 328 years ago — 72 years old

Reigned as Empress from 1629 to 1643 during the Edo period. Ascended to the throne following the abdication of Empress Tōshō. Oversaw a period where imperial authority was reduced under the Tokugawa shogunate. Her reign was marked by the establishment of courtly traditions and support for culture, including literature and the arts.

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