1510s facts for kids

The 1510s were a time of big changes around the world! Many important events happened, from new religious movements starting in Europe to brave explorers setting sail to discover new lands. Powerful empires grew, and famous artists and thinkers continued to shape history. Let's explore some of the most exciting things that happened during these ten years.

Major World Events

The Start of the Reformation

In 1517, a German monk named Martin Luther did something that changed history forever. He posted a list of 95 ideas, called "The 95 Theses," on the door of a church in Wittenberg, Germany. These ideas questioned some of the practices of the Catholic Church at the time.

Luther believed that people could find forgiveness and a path to heaven through faith alone, not just by doing good deeds or buying special papers from the church. This act sparked the Protestant Reformation, a huge movement that led to the creation of many new Christian churches and changed the religious map of Europe. It also led to many conflicts and wars over the next century.

Rise of the Ottoman Empire

During the 1510s, the Ottoman Empire became even more powerful under its leader, Selim I. He was known as a strong and successful sultan. In 1516 and 1517, Selim I led his armies to conquer new lands.

He took control of Palestine and Egypt, which were important areas in the Middle East. After these victories, Selim I declared himself the Caliph. This title meant he was seen as the leader of the entire Muslim world, giving him immense religious and political power. This expansion made the Ottoman Empire one of the largest and most influential empires of its time.

Age of Exploration Begins

The 1510s were also a time when brave explorers set out to discover new parts of the world. These journeys changed how people understood geography and connected different continents.

Cortés Lands in Mexico

In 1519, a Spanish explorer named Hernán Cortés arrived in Mexico. He landed with his ships and soldiers, beginning the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire. This event marked the start of a new era for the Americas, leading to significant changes for the native peoples and the spread of European influence.

Magellan's Journey Around the World

Also in 1519, Ferdinand Magellan began one of the most famous voyages in history. He left Europe with a fleet of ships, aiming to find a western sea route to the Spice Islands. His expedition was the first to sail all the way around the world, proving that the Earth was indeed round and much larger than many people had imagined. Although Magellan himself died during the journey, his crew completed the circumnavigation in 1522.

Notable People

Famous Births

• Saint Teresa of Avila (born 1515): She was a very important Spanish Carmelite nun and a gifted writer. She is known for her deep spiritual writings and for reforming her religious order. Her work continues to inspire many people today.

Famous Deaths

• Leonardo da Vinci (died 1519): One of the most brilliant minds in history, Leonardo da Vinci was an Italian inventor, painter, sculptor, architect, musician, scientist, and more! He is famous for masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper. He also designed flying machines and studied human anatomy, showing his incredible curiosity and talent in many different fields.

Images for kids

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  April 11, 1512: Battle of Ravenna

See also

In Spanish: Años 1510 para niños