On This Day

What Happened in May 1689

Historical Events


BattleDeclaration of War

May 9 English King William III declares war on France

King of England William III
King of England
William III
  • May 11 Battle of Bantry Bay, French & English naval battle
  • May 12 England & Netherlands form League of Augsburg
  • May 24 English Parliament guarantees freedom of religion for Protestants
  • May 27 Anthonie Heinsius succeeds G Fagel as Grand Pensionary of Holland

Famous Birthdays

  • May 15 Mary Wortley Montagu, English essayist, feminist, eccentric (baptism 26 May)
  • May 24 Daniel Finch, 8th Earl of Winchilsea, English politician (d. 1769)