Britain 1500-1750

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Timeline: Britain 1500-1750

Years: 1503 - 1750	Subject: History, Regional and National History
Publisher: HistoryWorld	Online Publication Date: 2012
Current online version: 2012	eISBN: 9780191736247

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BCE CE

Year	Event
1503	The marriage of James IV, king of Scotland, to Margaret Tudor, daughter of Henry VII, leads a century later to the Union of the Crowns Go to James IV (b. 17 Mar. 1473) in The Kings and Queens of Britain (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1509	On the death of his father, and as the result of the death of his elder brother Arthur, Henry VIII becomes king of England Go to Henry VIII (1491–1547) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1511	The earliest surviving curling stone, discovered in Scotland, dates from this year Go to curling in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Sports and games Scotland British Isles Europe Society Britain
1513	James IV of Scotland dies at Flodden, in the disastrous defeat of his army by the English Go to James IV (b. 17 Mar. 1473) in The Kings and Queens of Britain (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War Battles Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain On the death of his father at Flodden, the one-year-old James V becomes king of Scotland Go to James V (b. 10 Apr. 1512) in The Kings and Queens of Britain (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1514	Thomas Wolsey begins to build himself a palace at Hampton Court, but will later consider it politic to give it to Henry VIII Go to Hampton Court palace in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Architecture British architecture Politics British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1516	Catherine of Aragon gives birth to a daughter, Mary, who becomes the only one of her six children to live beyond infancy Go to Catherine of Aragon (1485–1536) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1526	Hans Holbein the Younger pays his first visit to England, and stays with Thomas More in Chelsea Go to Holbein, Hans (1497–1543) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Arts Painting British painting British art British Isles Europe Britain
1528	Discussion of Henry VIII's proposed divorce hinges on rival verses from the Old Testament, in Deuteronomy and Leviticus Go to Henry VIII (1491–1547) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Reformation Politics Dynasties and royalty Religion Christianity Judaism British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain In a desperate attempt to retain royal favour, when suspected by the king of opposing his divorce, Cardinal Wolsey gives his spectacular Hampton Court Palace to Henry VIII Go to Wolsey, Thomas (c. 1474–1530) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1529	After the fall of Wolsey, Henry VIII appoints Thomas More as his Lord Chancellor Go to More, Sir Thomas (1478–1535) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1533	Thomas Cranmer, the archbishop of Canterbury, declares Henry VIII's marriage to Catherine of Aragon null and void Go to Cranmer, Thomas (1489–1556) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Reformation Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Anne Boleyn has a child (the future Elizabeth I) but not of the sex her husband wanted Go to Elizabeth I (1533–1603) in The Oxford Dictionary of the Renaissance (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1534	Henry VIII's Act of Supremacy forces prominent figures in English public life to accept him on oath as head of the Church of England Go to Church of England in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Reformation Politics Dynasties and royalty Religion Christianity British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1535	Thomas More refuses to take the oath accepting the Act of Supremacy and is beheaded Go to More, Thomas (1477) in The Oxford Dictionary of Philosophy (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1536	Henry VIII begins the process of gathering in the wealth of England's monasteries Go to Henry VIII (1491–1547) in The Oxford Dictionary of the Renaissance (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Reformation Politics Dynasties and royalty Religion Christianity British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Wales is merged within the English kingdom as a principality Go to Wales, principality of in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Wales British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Henry VIII's queen, Anne Boleyn, is beheaded in the Tower of London on unsubstantiated charges of adultery Go to Anne Boleyn (b. c.1501) in The Kings and Queens of Britain (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1537	Jane Seymour gives birth to Henry VIII's long-awaited male heir (the future Edward VI) Go to Edward VI (b. 12 Oct. 1537) in The Kings and Queens of Britain (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Jane Seymour dies twelve days after giving birth to Henry VIII's heir, the future Edward VI Go to Jane Seymour (b. c.1509) in The Kings and Queens of Britain (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1539	The Great Bible, commissioned by Henry VIII for use in every Anglican church, is published Go to Great Bible noun in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Reformation Christianity British Isles Europe Britain
1542	Henry VIII's fourth wife, Catherine Howard, is beheaded on a charge of adultery with Thomas Culpeper Go to Howard, Catherine (c. 1521–42) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century British Isles Europe Britain A one-week-old Scottish infant, daughter of James V, inherits the throne as Mary Queen of Scots Go to Mary, Queen of Scots (1542–87) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1546	David Beaton, the archbishop of St Andrews, burns a leading Protestant, George Wishart, as a heretic and is murdered in retaliation Go to Beaton, David (c.1494–1546) in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Reformation Politics Persecution and repression Religion Christianity British Isles Europe Britain
1547	On the death of Henry VIII his 10-year-old son becomes king of England as Edward VI Go to Edward VI (b. 12 Oct. 1537) in The Kings and Queens of Britain (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain John Knox is captured in St Andrews and is sent to serve in the French fleet as a galley slave Go to Knox, John (1514–72) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Reformation Politics Persecution and repression Religion Christianity British Isles Europe Britain
1553	Mary I succeeds to the English throne, and devotes her energies to the restoration of the Catholic faith Go to Mary I (1516–58) in The Oxford Dictionary of the Renaissance (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Reformation Politics Dynasties and royalty Religion Christianity British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1554	Mary I causes grave offence in England by her marriage to the Catholic heir to the king of Spain Go to Philip II (1527–98) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Religion Christianity British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Spain Rulers and politicians Britain Thomas Wyatt raises a Protestant rebellion in Yorkshire and marches south in a failed attempt to depose the English queen, Mary I Go to Wyatt, Sir Thomas (c. 1521–54) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century British Isles Europe Britain Mary I arrests her younger sister Elizabeth under suspicion of complicity in the Wyatt Rebellion, but she can find no proof Go to Wyatt's Rebellion (February 1554) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century British Isles Europe Britain
1555	The Muscovy Company is granted a monopoly by the crown to trade with Russia, as the first of the English chartered companies Go to Russia Company in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Commerce and industry British Isles Europe Society Britain The Protestant martyrs, though few in number, ensure the reputation of Bloody Mary in English history Go to Mary I (1516–58) in The Oxford Dictionary of the Renaissance (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Reformation Politics Persecution and repression Religion Christianity British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1556	Thomas Cranmer is burnt at the stake in Oxford, after reasserting his Protestant beliefs Go to Cranmer, Thomas (1489–1556) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Reformation Christianity Europe Britain
1558	Elizabeth I succeeds peacefully to the throne of England, after the turmoil of Mary's Catholic reign Go to Elizabeth I (1533–1603) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain William Cecil, later Lord Burghley, becomes Elizabeth's principal secretary - and remains in the post for forty years Go to Cecil, William (1520–98) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Mary Queen of Scots marries the heir to the French throne, who a year later succeeds as Francis II Go to Mary, Queen of Scots (1542–87) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe France Rulers and politicians Britain With its strong French connection, the Scottish royal name of Stewart begins to be spelt Stuart (there being no 'w' in native French words) Go to Stuart in A Dictionary of First Names (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1559	John Knox returns to Scotland from Geneva and inspires the Protestants to march on Edinburgh Go to Knox, John (1514–72) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Reformation Politics Protest and rebellion Religion Christianity Scotland British Isles Europe Britain
1560	A year after Mary has become queen of France, her husband Francis II dies Go to Mary, Queen of Scots (1542–87) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe France Rulers and politicians Britain
1561	Mary Queen of Scots returns from France to Edinburgh, and to an inevitable clash with John Knox Go to Mary, Queen of Scots (1542–87) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Reformation Politics Dynasties and royalty Religion Christianity Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1565	Mary Queen of Scots marries her Catholic cousin, Henry Darnley Go to Darnley, Henry Stuart (1545–67) in The Oxford Dictionary of the Renaissance (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1566	Mary Queen of Scots' secretary, David Rizzio, is dragged from her presence and stabbed to death Go to Rizzio, David (c. 1533–66) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Mary Queen of Scots' husband Darnley is treacherously involved in the murder of her secretary, Rizzio Go to Darnley, Henry Stuart (1545–67) in The Oxford Dictionary of the Renaissance (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1567	Darnley is murdered, almost certainly at the instigation of Mary Queen of Scots' lover, Bothwell, whom she marries just three months later Go to Bothwell, James Hepburn in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain A casket of letters seems to incriminate Mary Queen of Scots herself in the murder of her husband, Darnley Go to Mary, Queen of Scots (1542–87) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain The events of this year give the Protestant nobility the occasion and opportunity of deposing Mary Queen of Scots Go to Mary, Queen of Scots (1542–87) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain On the removal of Mary from the Scottish throne, her one-year-old son succeeds her as James VI Go to James I (1566–1625) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1568	Mary Queen of Scots flees across the border to seek the help of her English cousin, Elizabeth, but finds herself kept under close guard Go to Mary, Queen of Scots (1542–87) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1569	A rebellion in the north of England aims to put Mary Queen of Scots on the English throne Go to Mary, Queen of Scots (1542–87) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Protest and rebellion Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1570	Pope Pius V excommunicates the English queen, Elizabeth I, causing a severe crisis of loyalty for her Catholic subjects Go to Elizabeth I (1533–1603) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Reformation Politics Religion Christianity Papacy British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Italy Rulers and politicians Britain
1571	Roberto di Ridolfi, a Florentine banker, coordinates a scheme to win the English throne for Mary Queen of Scots Go to Ridolfi Plot (1571) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles Florence British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1575	English sailor and slave-trader John Hawkins turns the top-heavy carrack into the more seaworthy galleon Go to Hawkins, Sir John (1532–95) in The Oxford Dictionary of the Renaissance (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century British Isles European empires from 1415 Europe Empires Britain
1576	James Burbage builds London's first theatre and calls it the Theatre Go to Burbage, James (1530–97) in The Concise Oxford Companion to English Literature (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Performing arts Theatre British Isles Europe Britain
1577	Francis Drake sails from Plymouth, heading west for the Pacific and the East Indies Go to Drake, Sir Francis in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Exploration British Isles European empires from 1415 Europe Society Empires Britain
1580	The first Jesuit missionaries arrive in England, with Edmund Campion among their number Go to Campion, Edmund, St (1540–81) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Religion Christianity Monasticism British Isles Europe Britain Francis Drake returns to England after his three-year voyage round the world and is knighted by Queen Elizabeth on board his Golden Hind Go to Drake, Sir Francis in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Exploration British Isles European empires from 1415 Europe Society Empires Britain
1585	England's queen Elizabeth sends 6000 troops to support the Dutch rebels against Spain Go to Elizabeth I (1533–1603) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century War British Isles Europe Netherlands Britain Catholics are now the martyrs in England, their numbers almost matching the Protestant martyrs of the previous reign Go to martyr in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Reformation Politics Persecution and repression Religion Christianity British Isles Europe Britain
1586	Anthony Babington is involved in a plot to assassinate Elizabeth and place Mary Queen of Scots on the English throne Go to Babington Plot (1586) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1587	Mary Queen of Scots, implicated in the Babington plot, is beheaded in Fotheringay castle Go to Babington Plot (1586) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain A new group of English settlers arrives at Roanoke Island and makes a second attempt at a settlement Go to Roanoke Island in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Conquest and colonization British Isles British colonial America British empire European empires from 1415 Europe Empires Britain North America United States Virginia Dare becomes the first English child to be born in America, on Roanoke Island Go to Dare, Virginia in New Oxford American Dictionary (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Conquest and colonization British Isles British colonial America British empire European empires from 1415 Europe Empires Britain North America United States Francis Drake sails into a crowded Cadiz harbour and destroys some thirty Spanish ships Go to Drake, Sir Francis in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century War British Isles Europe Spain Britain Nicholas Hilliard paints the delightful miniature known simply as Young Man among Roses Go to Hilliard, Nicholas (1547–1619) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Arts Painting British painting British art British Isles Europe Britain
1588	The more nimble English fleet destroys the galleons of the Spanish Armada, introducing a new kind of naval warfare Go to Spanish Armada in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century War British Isles Europe Spain Britain The tactics used against the Armada reveal that the sailing ships themselves have become fighting machines, as men-of-war Go to Spanish Armada in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century War British Isles Europe Britain
1589	An English clergyman, William Lee, develops the world's first industrial machinery, to knit stockings Go to framework knitting in The Oxford Companion to Family and Local History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Technology Inventions and discoveries British Isles Europe Britain
1590	An English ship, the first to arrive at Roanoke Island since 1587, finds no remaining trace of the settlers or their settlement Go to Roanoke Island in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Conquest and colonization British Isles British colonial America British empire European empires from 1415 Europe Empires Britain North America United States
1596	A flush toilet is illustrated in an English pamphlet, The Metamorphosis of Ajax by John Harrington Go to Harington, Sir John (1561–1612) in The Oxford Dictionary of the Renaissance (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Social and domestic British Isles Europe Society Britain
1598	A manuscript, the Guildford Book of Court, uses the word 'creckett' for a game played in a Guildford school Go to cricket in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Sports and games British Isles Europe Society Britain James VI of Scotland argues in an anonymous book that kings, appointed by God, are above human law Go to James VI (1566–1625) in The Oxford Dictionary of the Renaissance (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1599	The Globe, where many of Shakespeare's plays are first performed, is built on Bankside in London Go to Globe Theatre in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century Architecture British architecture Performing arts Theatre British Isles Europe Britain
1600	William Gilbert, physician to Queen Elizabeth, concludes that the earth is a magnet and coins the term 'magnetic pole' Go to magnetic pole in A Dictionary of Environment and Conservation (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century 17th century Science Physics British Isles Europe Britain Britain's East India Company is established when Elizabeth I grants a charter to a 'Company of Merchants trading into the East Indies' Go to East Flanders in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century 17th century Commerce and industry British Isles British empire European empires from 1415 Europe Society Empires Britain Electricity is given its name (in the Latin phrase vis electrica) by the English physician, William Gilbert Go to Gilbert, William (1540–1613) in A Dictionary of Earth Sciences (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 16th century 17th century Science Physics British Isles Europe Britain
1603	James VI of Scotland inherits peacefully the crown of his English cousin Elizabeth, and becomes James I of England Go to James VI (1566–1625) in The Oxford Dictionary of the Renaissance (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain The accession of James I and VI to the throne of England brings the union of the crowns of England and Scotland Go to James VI (1566–1625) in The Oxford Dictionary of the Renaissance (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1604	The British king James I launches a blistering attack on the smoking of tobacco, which he considers a loathsome custom Go to James VI (1566–1625) in The Oxford Dictionary of the Renaissance (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Social and domestic Scotland British Isles Europe Society Britain William Shakespeare's name appears among the actors in a list of the King's Men Go to Shakespeare, William (1564–1616) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Theatre Literature English literature Drama British Isles Europe Britain
1605	The Gunpowder Plot, attempting murder and treason, severely damages the Catholic cause in Britain Go to Gunpowder plot (1605) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Protest and rebellion Religion Christianity British Isles Europe Britain
1607	The earls of Tyrone and Tyrconnel sail from Ireland with their families, in the event known as the Flight of the Earls Go to Flight of the Earls (1607) in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Conquest and colonization British Isles Europe Ireland Britain
1608	A shipload of Puritans, among them some of the future Pilgrim Fathers, sail from Boston in Lincolnshire to seek religious freedom in Holland Go to puritan in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Reformation Politics Persecution and repression Religion Christianity British Isles Europe Belgium Netherlands Britain
1612	The establishment of a Baptist church in London is a defining moment for the Baptist sect within Christianity Go to Baptist in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Religion Christianity British Isles Europe Britain
1613	The Globe catches fire during a performance of Shakespeare's last play, Henry VIII Go to Globe Theatre in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Performing arts Theatre British Isles Europe Britain
1616	Pocahontas fascinates Londoners when she arrives with her husband to publicize Jamestown Go to Pocahontas (c. 1595–1617) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Social and domestic British Isles American Indians British colonial America European empires from 1415 Europe Society Empires Britain North America United States William Shakespeare dies at New Place, his home in Stratford-upon-Avon, and is buried in Holy Trinity Church Go to Shakespeare, William (1564–1616) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Theatre Literature English literature Drama British Isles Europe Britain
1620 September 16	The Pilgrims (or Pilgrim Fathers), a group of 102 English settlers, sail in the Mayflower to the new world Go to Pilgrims in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Reformation Politics Conquest and colonization British Isles British colonial America British empire European empires from 1415 Europe Empires Britain North America United States
1620	In his Novum Organum Francis Bacon introduces a modern philosophy of experimental science Go to Bacon, Francis (1561–1626) in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Science British Isles Europe Britain
1621	The first English newspaper (Corante) appears, promising reports 'from Italy, Germany, Hungarie, Spaine and France' Go to coranto in The Concise Oxford Companion to English Literature (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century British Isles Europe Britain
1625	On the death of his father, James VI and I, Charles I becomes king of England and Scotland Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain The English parliament attempts to clip the wings of the new king, Charles I, by placing an annual limit on his power to raise taxes Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain
1626	Charles I frustrates the English parliament's restrictions by raising taxes without summoning parliament for renewed approval Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1628	William Harvey publishes a short book, De Motu Cordis, proving the circulation of the blood Go to Harvey, William (1578–1657) in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Science Medicine British Isles Europe Britain The English parliament's Petition of Right emphasizes the right of the citizen to be protected from royal tyranny Go to Petition of Right (1628) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Persecution and repression War British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain
1629	Charles I dismisses his parliament in Westminster, and fails to summon another in the following eleven years Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1630	John Winthrop, appointed governor of the new Massachusetts Bay Company, sails from England with 700 settlers Go to Winthrop, John (1588–1649) in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Conquest and colonization British Isles British colonial America British empire European empires from 1415 Europe Empires Britain North America United States
1632	Van Dyck moves to London and becomes portrait painter to the British court and aristocracy Go to Van Dyck, Sir Anthony (1599–1641) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Baroque Arts Painting British painting British art British Isles Europe Britain
1634	Charles I demands ship money to increase his revenue, albeit in the absence of its conventional justification - a crisis of national defence Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain
1635	Charles I establishes Britain's Royal Mail, employing Thomas Witherings to set it up Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Social and domestic British Isles Europe Society Britain
1636	A painted ceiling by Rubens, celebrating the Stuart dynasty, is installed in the Banqueting House in Whitehall Go to Rubens, Peter Paul (1577–1640) [Art] in The Oxford Dictionary of Reference and Allusion (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Baroque Arts Painting British painting British art British Isles Europe Britain John Hampden refuses to pay ship money to Charles I, beginning a campaign that gradually wins wide support Go to Hampden, John (1594–1643) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Protest and rebellion War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1637	Charles I and his archbishop of Canterbury, William Laud, attempt to impose the full Anglican hierarchy on presbyterian Scotland Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Religion Christianity War Scotland British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1638	A National Covenant, first signed in an Edinburgh churchyard, commits the Covenanters to oppose Charles I's reforms of the Church of Scotland Go to Covenanters in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Reformation Politics Protest and rebellion Religion Christianity War Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain Riots erupt in Edinburgh, in response to the attempt by Charles I and Laud to impose a hierarchy of Anglican bishops Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Protest and rebellion Religion Christianity War Scotland British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1639	The finances of the English king, Charles I, are in crisis, with his agents able to collect each year only a fraction of his demands Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Covenanters seize control of Edinburgh and other Scottish towns, launching the conflict with England known as the Bishops' War Go to Covenanters in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Protest and rebellion War Scotland British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1640	In need of funds for the Bishops' War in Scotland, Charles I summons parliament to Westminster Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War Scotland British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Parliament denies Charles I's request for funds and is dismissed after three weeks (the Short Parliament) Go to Short Parliament (May 1640) in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Charles I's financial crisis causes him to summon another parliament to Westminster (the Long Parliament, not dissolved until 1660) Go to Long Parliament (1640–60) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain The new parliament immediately impeaches Charles I's two closest advisers, the earl of Strafford and archbishop William Laud Go to Long Parliament (1640–60) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
c. 1641	Cavalier is now in use as a term of abuse for supporters of the royal cause Go to cavalier in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain Roundhead is now in use as a term of abuse for supporters of parliament Go to Roundhead noun in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain Under pressure from parliament, Charles I signs the death warrant of his most powerful supporter, the earl of Strafford Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain Parliament presents Charles I with the Grand Remonstrance, a long list of grievances against his conduct of the realm Go to Grand Remonstrance (1641) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1642	Charles I comes in person to the House of Commons, but fails in his attempt to arrest the Five Members whom he accuses of treason Go to five members (1642) in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain Charles I leaves London and heads for the north of England, where his support is the strongest Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Henrietta Maria, the wife of Charles I, travels to Holland, taking with her the English crown jewels Go to Henrietta Maria in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Parliament sends Charles I a list of political demands, the Nineteen Propositions, which it would be impossible for him to accept Go to Nineteen Propositions in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Charles I, at Nottingham, raises the royal standard - signalling that he considers himself at war Go to English Civil War (1642–49) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Charles I leads his army into action at Edgehill - the first, but inconclusive, battle in the English Civil War Go to English Civil War (1642–49) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century War Battles British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Charles I marches to within a few miles of Westminster (to Turnham Green), but withdraws without engaging the enemy Go to English Civil War (1642–49) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Charles I withdraws to Oxford, where he establishes his court for the rest of the war Go to English Civil War (1642–49) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1644	In the first decisive battle of the English Civil War the king's nephew, Rupert of the Rhine, is heavily defeated at Marston Moor Go to English Civil War (1642–49) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century War Battles British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1645	Thomas Fairfax and Oliver Cromwell form England's first professional army, calling it the New Model Army Go to New Model Army in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain The royalist forces, again under the command of Rupert of the Rhine, suffer another major defeat at Naseby Go to English Civil War (1642–49) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century War Battles British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1646	With a parliamentary army surrounding royalist Oxford, Charles I escapes in disguise and heads north Go to English Civil War (1642–49) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Charles I puts himself in the hands of a Scottish army, opposed at the time to the English parliament Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1647	The Scottish army holding Charles I makes peace with parliament, and hands the king to parliamentary commissioners Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century War Scotland British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Charles I is held at his palace of Hampton Court, as a prisoner of Cromwell and parliament Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Charles I comes to a secret arrangement with a group of Covenanters in Scotland, winning their support Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War Scotland British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1648	Scottish Covenanters invade England in support of the English king, Charles I, in his struggle against parliament Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century War Scotland British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Parliamentary forces defeat the Scottish invaders and suppress other new outbreaks of royalist support Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century War Scotland British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Colonel Thomas Pride denies entrance to the House of Commons to about 140 opponents of Cromwell's policies Go to Pride's Purge in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1649	Cromwell persuades the House of Commons, purged now of all opposition, that it is treason for a king to wage war against parliament Go to Cromwell, Oliver (1599–1658) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Charles I, brought to trial before 135 commissioners in Westminster Hall, refuses to recognise the court's validity Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain After a trial lasting a week in Westminster Hall, Charles I is convicted of treason for fighting a war against parliament Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain Charles I is beheaded on a scaffold erected in the street in London's Whitehall Go to Charles I (1600–49) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain Charles II, in the Hague, inherits the English and Scottish thrones of his executed father, Charles I Go to Charles II (1630–85) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War Scotland British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Parliament in London abolishes the monarchy in England, as 'unnecessary, burdensome, and dangerous' Go to Rump Parliament in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Parliament chooses Oliver Cromwell to chair the new English Commonwealth's council of state Go to Cromwell, Oliver (1599–1658) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain John Milton becomes Latin secretary in Cromwell's council of state Go to Milton, John (1608–74) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics British Isles Europe Britain
1650	James Ussher, archbishop of Armagh, calculates that creation began on Sunday, October 23, 4004 BC Go to Ussher, James (1581–1656) in The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (3 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Religion Christianity British Isles Europe Ireland Britain
1651	Charles II returns to Scotland and is crowned king of Scots in the traditional manner at Scone Go to Charles II (1630–85) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War Scotland British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Parliament in England passes the first of several Navigation Acts designed to reserve international trade for English ships Go to Navigation Acts in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Commerce and industry British Isles British empire Europe Society Empires Britain Charles II is defeated by Cromwell at Worcester and escapes in disguise to France Go to Charles II (1630–85) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century War Battles British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1652	Scotland and England are merged under English parliamentary rule, in a forced union which lasts eight years Go to Cromwell, Oliver (1599–1658) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Scotland British Isles Europe Britain A clash at sea between English and Dutch fleets begins the first of three Anglo-Dutch wars Go to Anglo‐Dutch Wars in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century War British Isles Europe Netherlands Britain The first coffee house opens In London and Londoners soon find such places useful to meet in and do business Go to coffee houses in The Concise Oxford Companion to English Literature (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Social and domestic British Isles Europe Society Britain
1653	Cromwell uses troops to turn the members out of the House of Commons and locks the door behind them Go to Rump Parliament in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics British Isles Europe Britain Cromwell is appointed Lord Protector of the Commonwealth for life, under legislation entitled the Instrument of Government Go to Cromwell, Oliver (1599–1658) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain The English admiral Robert Blake introduces a system of signalling at sea by means of flags Go to Blake, Robert (1599–1657) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Technology Communication War British Isles Europe Britain John Bunyan joins a Nonconformist church in Bedford and becomes one of their preachers Go to Bunyan, John (1628–88) in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Religion Christianity British Isles Europe Britain
c. 1655	George Fox begins preaching in England, in a movement which develops into the Society of Friends - or Quakers Go to quakers in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Religion Christianity British Isles Europe Britain
c. 1656	Jews return to England after Cromwell repeals the law of 1290 forbidding their residence in the country Go to Cromwell, Oliver (1599–1658) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Religion Judaism Social and domestic British Isles Europe Society Britain
1657	Andrew Marvell works as assistant Latin secretary to Milton in Cromwell's department for foreign affairs Go to Marvell, Andrew (1621–78) in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics British Isles Europe Britain
1658	Samuel Pepys has a two-ounce stone cut from his bladder, in an operation carried out at home in the presence of his family Go to Pepys, Samuel (1633–1703) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Science Medicine British Isles Europe Britain Cromwell dies after naming his son Richard to succeed him in the office of Lord Protector Go to Cromwell, Richard (1626–1712) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain Prince Rupert of the Rhine pioneers mezzotint, the first half-tone technique in printing Go to mezzotint in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Art Terms (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Printing Prints Technology British Isles Europe Britain
1659	The ineffective Richard Cromwell goes into voluntary retirement, an event linked to the strong possibility of a military coup Go to Cromwell, Richard (1626–1712) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1660	General George Monck marches south from Scotland to London, to intervene in England's unresolved political crisis Go to Monck, George, 1st Duke of Albemarle (1608–70) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain Monck, reaching London, dissolves the Long Parliament and convenes a new one Go to Monck, George, 1st Duke of Albemarle (1608–70) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Monck persuades Charles II to sign, at Breda in Holland, a declaration of policies to heal the wounds of the Civil War Go to Monck, George, 1st Duke of Albemarle (1608–70) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain The new Convention Parliament in Westminster invites Charles II to return as king Go to Convention Parliaments in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain Charles II lands at Dover and is given a warm welcome in London four days later Go to Charles II (1630–85) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Wars and Revolutions Britain The Act of Indemnity, pardoning all offences since 1637 except those of the regicides, is given the royal assent Go to Indemnity and Oblivion, Act of (1660) in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain
1661	John Bunyan is convicted of unlicensed preaching and spends the next eleven years in Bedford Gaol Go to Bunyan, John (1628–88) in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Religion Christianity British Isles Europe Britain The body of Oliver Cromwell is hanged, drawn and quartered at Tyburn Go to Cromwell, Oliver (1599–1658) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: English Civil War 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty War British Isles Europe Wars and Revolutions Britain The Cavalier Parliament begins to pass a series of acts, known as the Clarendon Code, containing punitive measures against Presbyterians Go to Clarendon code in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Persecution and repression Religion Christianity British Isles Europe Britain
1662	British chemist Robert Boyle defines the inverse relationship between pressure and volume in any gas (subsequently known as Boyle's Law) Go to Boyle, Robert (1627–92) in The Oxford Dictionary of Philosophy (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Science Chemistry British Isles Europe Britain The Act of Uniformity demands that Anglican clergy accept all the Thirty-Nine Articles, costing many their livings Go to Uniformity, Act of (1662) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Persecution and repression Religion Christianity British Isles Europe Britain An academy of English scientists is given a royal charter by Charles II and becomes the Royal Society Go to Royal Society in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Science British Isles Europe Britain
1664	The Conventicle Act restricts worship in England to Anglican churches if more than a few people are present Go to Clarendon code in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Persecution and repression Religion Christianity British Isles Europe Britain
1665	The first recorded attempt at blood transfusion, at the Royal Society in London, proves that the idea is feasible Go to Royal Society in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Science Medicine British Isles Europe Britain The Five Mile Act prevents Nonconformist ministers in England from coming closer than five miles to any town where they have ministered Go to Clarendon code in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Persecution and repression Religion Christianity British Isles Europe Britain The Great Plague of London causes as many as 7000 deaths in a week and perhaps a total of 100,000 by the end of the year Go to Great Plague (1664–65) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Social and domestic British Isles Europe Society Britain Isaac Newton spends a creative period in Lincolnshire, at home in Woolsthorpe Manor, apples or no apples Go to Newton, Sir Isaac (1642–1727) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Science Physics British Isles Europe Britain
1666	The Great Fire of London rages for four days, destroying 13,200 houses and 81 churches Go to London, fire of (1666) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Social and domestic British Isles Europe Society Britain
1667	Michiel de Ruyter sails up the Thames to destroy much of the English fleet at its base in the Medway Go to Ruyter, Michiel Adrianszoon de (1607–76) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century War British Isles Europe Netherlands Britain Wood-carver Grinling Gibbons arrives from Holland to begin an immensely successful career in England Go to Gibbons, Grinling (1648–1721) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Baroque Arts Sculpture British art British Isles Europe Britain
c. 1669	The duke of York, heir to the English and Scottish thrones, is secretly received into the Roman Catholic church Go to James II (1633–1701) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1672	Charles II issues a Declaration of Indulgence, suspending the restrictions on Catholics and Nonconformists Go to Declarations of Indulgence in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Persecution and repression Religion Christianity British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Isaac Newton's experiments with the prism demonstrate the link between wavelength and colour in light Go to Newton, Sir Isaac (1642–1727) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Science Physics British Isles Europe Britain
1673	Parliament in England passes a Test Act excluding Catholics and Nonconformists from public office Go to Test Act in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Persecution and repression Religion Christianity British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1678	The Popish Plot, an invented Jesuit conspiracy to kill Charles II, results in the execution of about thirty-five Roman Catholics Go to Popish Plot (1678) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Persecution and repression Religion Christianity British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1679	The rival political parties in Britain find abusive names for each other - Whigs and Tories Go to Tory in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Democracy and dissent British Isles Europe Britain
c. 1680	The English clockmaker Thomas Tompion is the first to make successful use of the hairspring in pocket watches Go to Tompion, Thomas in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Technology Inventions and discoveries British Isles Europe Britain A comet intrigues Edmund Halley, who works out that it has been around before Go to Halley, Edmund (1656–1742) in A Dictionary of Physics (6 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Science Astronomy and space British Isles Europe Britain
1685	James II succeeds to the throne in Britain and immediately introduces pro-Catholic policies Go to James II (1633–1701) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Religion Christianity British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Denis Papin, a French scientist working in England, demonstrates a pressure cooker fitted with a safety valve Go to Pressure Cookers in The Oxford Encyclopedia of Food and Drink in America (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Technology Inventions and discoveries British Isles Europe Britain
1686	English naturalist John Ray begins publication of his Historia Plantarum, classifying some 18,600 plants in 'mutual fertility' species Go to Ray, John (1607–1705) in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Science Life sciences British Isles Europe Britain
1687	Newton publishes Principia Mathematica, proving gravity to be a constant in all physical systems Go to Newton, Sir Isaac (1642–1727) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Science Physics British Isles Europe Britain
1688	A son (the future 'Old Pretender') is born to James II, giving Britain a Catholic heir to the throne Go to James II (1633–1701) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain English grandees invite William III of Orange and his wife Mary, daughter of James II, to claim the British throne Go to William III (1650–1702) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Netherlands Rulers and politicians Britain William III of Orange lands with an army at Torbay and marches to London with almost no opposition from supporters of James II Go to William III (1650–1702) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1689	Parliament in Westminster makes the restrictive Bill of Rights the condition on which William III and Mary II are crowned Go to Bill of Rights (1689) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Young gentlewomen in Chelsea give the first performance of Purcell's Dido and Aeneas Go to Purcell, Henry (1659–95) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Baroque Performing arts Music Opera British Isles Europe Britain
1690	The Church of Scotland finally wins recognition as an independent Presbyterian body Go to Presbyterianism noun in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Religion Christianity Scotland British Isles Europe Britain
1692	Government soldiers, mainly Campbells, massacre their MacDonald hosts in Glencoe Go to Glencoe massacre in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Persecution and repression Scotland British Isles Europe Britain
1694	The Bank of England is founded and soon becomes the central banker for England's many private banks Go to Bank of England in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Commerce and industry British Isles Europe Society Britain The joint monarch of England, Mary II, dies - leaving her husband, William III, to reign alone Go to William III (1650–1702) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Politics Dynasties and royalty British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1697	The Russian tsar, Peter I, studies western European technology, working as a ship's carpenter in Dutch and English shipyards Go to Peter I (1672–1725) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Technology British Isles Europe Netherlands Russia Britain
1698	Thomas Savery creates the first practical steam engine, designed to pump water out of mines Go to Savery, Thomas (c. 1650–1715) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century Steam Technology Engineering British Isles Europe Britain
c. 1700	Holland and England are now producing the magnificent ocean-going merchant vessels known as East Indiamen Go to East Indiamen in The Oxford Companion to Ships and the Sea (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 17th century 18th century Travel and transport British Isles British empire European empires from 1415 Europe Belgium Netherlands Society Empires Britain
1701	The Act of Settlement declares that no Catholic may inherit the English crown Go to Settlement, Act of (1701) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Religion Christianity British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1702	On the death of her brother-in-law, William III, Anne becomes queen of England and Scotland Go to Anne (1665–1714) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1707	The Act of Union merges England and Scotland as 'one kingdom by the name of Great Britain', a century after the union of the crowns Go to Union, Act of (Scotland) (1707) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1709	Abraham Darby at Coalbrookdale discovers the use of coke in the smelting of pig iron Go to Darby, Abraham (14 Apr 1678) in The Grove Encyclopedia of Decorative Arts (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Technology Inventions and discoveries Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain
c. 1710	Thomas Newcomen creates a piston steam engine, with the steam condensed in the cylinder by a jet of cold water Go to Newcomen, Thomas (1663–1729) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Steam Technology Engineering Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain Christopher Wren's new domed St Paul's cathedral is completed in London Go to Wren, Christopher (1632–1723) in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Baroque Architecture British architecture Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain Machines are thrown out of the window of a Spitalfields factory, in an early protest against industrialization Go to Industrial Revolution in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics Protest and rebellion Commerce and industry Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Society Britain The Byerley Turk, Darley Arabian and Godolphin Arabian, ancestors of all thoroughbred racehorses, are imported into England Go to Byerley Turk in The Oxford Dictionary of Phrase and Fable (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Sports and games Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Society Britain
1711	Handel's success in London with his opera Rinaldo prompts him to settle in Britain Go to Handel, George Frideric (1685–1759) in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Performing arts Music Opera Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain
1714	On the death of Queen Anne, the Act of Settlement delivers the British crown to the elector of Hanover, as George I Go to George I (1660–1727) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain The British government offers a massive £20,000 prize for a chronometer capable of keeping accurate time at sea Go to chronometer noun in Oxford Dictionary of English (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Technology Inventions and discoveries Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain
1715	A Jacobite uprising in Scotland on behalf of the Old Pretender ends in fiasco Go to Old Pretender, the in Brewer's Dictionary of Irish Phrase & Fable (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics Protest and rebellion Great Britain - from 1707 Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Colen Campbell creates interest in the Palladian style in Britain with the publication of his Vitruvius Britannicus Go to Palladianism in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Architecture British architecture Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain
1717	The earl of Burlington employs Colen Campbell to remodel his Piccadilly house in the Palladian style Go to Palladianism in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Architecture British architecture Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain
1720	Shares in the South Sea Company rise rapidly and collapse within the year, in the so-called South Sea Bubble Go to South Sea Bubble in A Dictionary of Finance and Banking (4 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Commerce and industry Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Society Britain
1721	Robert Walpole becomes Britain's chief minister and holds the post for an unrivalled span of twenty-one years Go to Walpole, Sir Robert, 1st Earl of Orford (1676–1745) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain
1724	General Wade, commander-in-chief of North Britain, begins an impressive programme of road construction in the Scottish Highlands Go to Wade, George (1673–1748) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Technology Engineering Great Britain - from 1707 Scotland British Isles Europe Britain
1727	On the death of his father, George I, George II becomes king of Great Britain Go to George II (1683–1760) in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics Dynasties and royalty Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Handel composes Zadok the Priest for the crowning of George II, and it has been sung at every subsequent British coronation Go to Handel, George Frideric (1685–1759) in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Baroque Performing arts Music Politics Dynasties and royalty Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain
c. 1730	John and Charles Wesley form a Holy Club at Oxford which becomes the cradle of Methodism Go to Holy Club in The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (3 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Religion Christianity Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain
1731	The Flemish-born sculptor Michael Rysbrack creates a monument to Newton in Westminster Abbey Go to Rysbrack, Michael (24 June 1694) in The Oxford Dictionary of Art (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Arts Sculpture British art Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain English maker of telescopes John Hadley designs the instrument which evolves into the standard sextant used at sea Go to sextant in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Technology Inventions and discoveries Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain
1732	With the performance of Esther Handel taps a rich new vein, the English oratorio Go to Handel, George Frideric (1685–1759) in The Concise Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (2 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Baroque Performing arts Music Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain
1733	John Kay, working in the Lancashire woollen industry, patents the flying shuttle to speed up weaving Go to Kay, John (1704–c. 1780) in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Technology Inventions and discoveries Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain
1739	Britain declares war on Spain, partly in a mood of indignation over Captain Jenkins' ear Go to Jenkins's Ear, War of in The Oxford Companion to British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century War Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Spain Britain
1740	Jack Broughton, champion of England, opens an academy to teach 'the mystery of boxing, that wholly British art' Go to broughtonian n. in Green's Dictionary of Slang (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Sports and games Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Society Britain
1742	Edmond Hoyle publishes the definitive rules of whist Go to whist in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Sports and games Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Society Britain
1744	France formally declares war on Britain half way through the War of the Austrian Succession Go to Austrian Succession, War of the (1740–48) in A Dictionary of World History (2 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century War Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe France Britain
1745	Charles Edward Stuart lands at Eriskay in the Hebrides, launching the Forty-Five Rebellion Go to Stuart, Charles Edward (1720–88) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics Protest and rebellion War Great Britain - from 1707 Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Charles Edward Stuart gathers support for the Forty-Five Rebellion on his way south from the Hebrides and reaches Edinburgh Go to Stuart, Charles Edward (1720–88) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics Protest and rebellion War Great Britain - from 1707 Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Charles Edward Stuart marches as far south as Derby, but then turns back Go to Stuart, Charles Edward (1720–88) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics Protest and rebellion War Great Britain - from 1707 Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain
1746	Charles Edward Stuart and his 5000 Scots are routed at Culloden, bringing the Forty-Five Rebellion to an abrupt end Go to Stuart, Charles Edward (1720–88) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics Protest and rebellion Battles Great Britain - from 1707 Scotland British Isles British monarchs - from 1066 Europe Rulers and politicians Britain Tartan and Highland dress are banned by the British government, in a prohibition not lifted until 1782 Go to tartan in World Encyclopedia (1 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Politics Great Britain - from 1707 Scotland British Isles Europe Britain
1747	Samuel Richardson's Clarissa begins the correspondence that grows into the longest novel in the English language Go to Clarissa: or The History of a Young Lady in The Concise Oxford Companion to English Literature (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Literature English literature Literature in English Fiction Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain
1749	Henry Fielding introduces a character of lasting appeal in the lusty but good-hearted Tom Jones Go to Tom Jones, The History of in The Concise Oxford Companion to English Literature (3 ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Literature English literature Literature in English Fiction Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Europe Britain
1750	Horace Walpole begins to create his own Strawberry Hill, a neo-Gothic fantasy, on the banks of the Thames west of London Go to Walpole, Horace, 4th earl of Orford (1717–97) in A Dictionary of British History (1 rev ed.) See this event in other timelines: 18th century Britain 1750-1900 Architecture British architecture Great Britain - from 1707 British Isles Gothic Europe Britain

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date: 03 December 2023

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Timeline: Britain 1500-1750