1559 Facts for Kids

Millennium:	2nd millennium
Centuries:	15th century – 16th century – 17th century
Decades:	1520s 1530s 1540s – 1550s – 1560s 1570s 1580s
Years:	1556 1557 1558 – 1559 – 1560 1561 1562

The year 1559 was a time of big changes in Europe and beyond. New rulers came to power, and important peace treaties were signed, ending long wars. It was also a year when a new church was established in England.

Key Events of 1559
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Key Events of 1559

England's New Queen

January 15 – A very important event happened in England. Elizabeth I was officially crowned Queen. This grand ceremony took place in Westminster Abbey, a famous church in London. Her crowning marked the start of a long and powerful reign for England.

A New Church in England

Queen Elizabeth I also made big changes to religion in England. She created the Church of England. This was done through two important laws: the Act of Uniformity 1559 and the Act of Supremacy 1559. These laws helped shape the religious future of England.

Changes in France

July 10 – A sad event occurred in France. King Henry II died in a jousting accident. Jousting was a sport where knights on horseback fought with lances. After his death, his son, Francis II, became the new King of France.

Peace in Europe

April 3 – A very important agreement was signed called the Peace of Cateau Cambrésis. This treaty brought peace between France, England, and Spain. It officially ended the long-running Italian Wars.
As part of the treaty, France gave up most of the lands it had gained in Italy, like Savoy. However, France kept some important areas, including Saluzzo, and three bishoprics (church-controlled towns) in Lorraine: Metz, Toul, and Verdun. France also kept the town of Calais, which used to belong to England.

Ethiopia's New Emperor

March 23 – In Ethiopia, Emperor Gelawdewos of Ethiopia was fighting to protect his country. He was defending his lands against an invasion led by Nur ibn Mujahid, the Sultan of Harar. Sadly, Emperor Gelawdewos was killed in this battle. His brother, Menas, then became the new king of Ethiopia.

Laws in France

During this year, a royal law was made in France. This law stated that if someone was found to be a "heretic" (someone who believed things different from the official church teachings), they could be punished by death.