What Happened in 1581

Historical Events

Apr 4 Francis Drake knighted by Queen Elizabeth I aboard Golden Hind at Deptford
Oct 15 Commissioned by Catherine de' Medici, the 1st ballet "Ballet Comique de la Reine" is staged in Paris
More Historical Events

Jan 4 James Ussher, Archbishop of Armagh (claimed world began 4004 BC).
Feb 4 Daniel Selich, German court composer, born in Wittenberg (d. 1626)
Feb 17 Fausto Poli, Italian Catholic Cardinal. private secretary to Pope Urban, born in Usigni (d. 1653)
Mar 16 Pieter Corneliszoon Hooft, Dutch historian and writer (d. 1647)
Apr 24 Vincent de Paul, French Roman Catholic Saint, born in Pouy, Gascony, France (d. 1660)

Jan 22 Joost de Damhoudere, Flemish lawyer (Praxis rerum criminalium), dies at 73
Jan 22 Seerp Galama, Dutch nobleman, soldier and politician, dies at 52
Apr 3 Huibert Duifhuis, Roman Catholic pastor (Rotterdam/Utrecht), dies
Jun 2 James Douglas, 4th Earl of Morton, regent of Scotland
Jul 11 Peder Skram, Danish senator and naval hero