On This Day

What Happened in January 1580

Famous Birthdays


Person of interestJohn Smith

Jan 6 John Smith, English explorer (Chesapeake Bay, New England) and leader of the Virginia Colony (Jamestown), born in Lincolnshire, England (d. 1631)

Explorer John Smith
Explorer
John Smith
  • Jan 12 Lord Alexander Ruthven, Scottish nobleman (d. 1600)

Famous Deaths

  • Jan 18 Antonio Scandello, Italian composer (Passion of John), dies at 63
  • Jan 31 Henry, King of Portugal, Cardinal, Epilepticus and Regent. Reigned 1578-80 (b. 1512)

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