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1585 facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

The year 1585 was a time of big changes and important events around the world. Many things happened in Europe, from conflicts between powerful countries to new leaders taking charge. Far across the ocean, explorers were trying to set up new settlements in America. In Asia, a strong leader was working to unite Japan.

What Happened in 1585?

Europe in 1585

England and Spain

In 1585, tensions grew between England and Spain. This led to the start of the Anglo-Spanish War. England, led by Queen Elizabeth I, was a Protestant country. Spain, led by King Philip II, was a Catholic country. They had different ideas about religion and power.

The war was also about control of trade routes and new lands. English sailors, like Sir Francis Drake, often raided Spanish ships. This made King Philip II very angry.

The Netherlands' Fight for Freedom

The Netherlands was under Spanish rule at this time. Many people there wanted to be free from Spain. In 1585, England signed the Treaty of Nonsuch. This treaty meant England would send soldiers and money to help the Dutch rebels. This was a big step that showed England was openly supporting Spain's enemies. It was a major reason why the war between England and Spain began.

Changes in the Papacy

The leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Gregory XIII, passed away in 1585. He was known for creating the Gregorian calendar. After his death, Pope Sixtus V was chosen as the new Pope. Pope Sixtus V was a strong leader who worked to improve the city of Rome and the power of the Church.

Exploration and New Worlds

The Roanoke Colony

In 1585, English explorers tried to set up their first permanent settlement in North America. This was on Roanoke Island in what is now North Carolina. Sir Walter Raleigh organized the expedition. About 100 colonists arrived and built a fort.

Life was very hard for the colonists. They struggled with food shortages and conflicts with local Native American tribes. After a year, many of them returned to England with Sir Francis Drake. A smaller group stayed behind, hoping for more supplies. This colony later became known as the "Lost Colony" because everyone disappeared.

Asia in 1585

Japan's Unification

In Japan, the powerful leader Toyotomi Hideyoshi continued his efforts to unite the country. Japan had been divided by many warring lords for a long time. In 1585, Hideyoshi launched the Invasion of Shikoku. He led a large army to conquer the island of Shikoku.

This invasion was successful and helped Hideyoshi gain more control over Japan. He was a skilled military leader and politician. His goal was to bring peace and unity to the entire nation.

Important People Born in 1585

John Cotton

  • December 4 – John Cotton was born in England. He became a very important religious leader. He was a Puritan minister who believed in strict religious rules.

Later in his life, John Cotton moved to the American colonies. He became a leading figure in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. He helped shape the religious and political life of early New England. His ideas influenced many people during that time.

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