1640s facts for kids
| Millennium: | 2nd millennium |
| Centuries: | 16th century – 17th century – 18th century |
| Decades: | 1610s 1620s 1630s – 1640s – 1650s 1660s 1670s |
| Years: | 1640 1641 1642 1643 1644 1645 1646 1647 1648 1649 |
| Categories: | Births – Deaths – Architecture Establishments – Disestablishments |
The 1640s was a decade that saw big changes around the world. New empires began, and explorers reached new lands. It was also a time of important scientific discoveries and major wars in Europe. Many powerful leaders shaped history during these ten years.
Contents
Major Events of the 1640s
The Rise of the Qing Dynasty
In the 1640s, a new ruling family, called a dynasty, took control of China. This was the Qing dynasty. It began in 1644 and would rule China for a very long time, until 1912. This change had a huge impact on the history of China.
European Exploration Continues
During this decade, European explorers reached new parts of the world. They arrived in New Zealand and Tasmania. These lands were already home to indigenous people. The arrival of Europeans marked a big moment in the history of these places.
The English Civil War
A major conflict called the English Civil War began in England during the 1640s. This was a fight between the King, Charles I of England, and the English Parliament. It was a very important war that changed how England was governed.
Notable People of the 1640s
Important Births
- William Penn was born in 1644. He was an English Quaker. Quakers are a religious group known for their peaceful beliefs. Penn later founded the colony of Pennsylvania in America.
Important Deaths
- The famous Italian scientist Galileo Galilei died in 1642. Galileo was a very important astronomer and physicist. He made many discoveries about the planets and how things move. He is often called the "father of modern science."
World Leaders in the 1640s
Many important leaders were in power during the 1640s. Here are a few who shaped the world:
- In England, King Charles I of England ruled until 1649. He was the king during the English Civil War.
- France had King Louis XIII of France until 1643. After him, his young son Louis XIV of France became king. Louis XIV would become one of France's most famous rulers.
- Two powerful cardinals, Cardinal Richelieu and Cardinal Mazarin, served as chief ministers in France. They helped guide the country's policies.
- In the Holy Roman Empire, Ferdinand III, Holy Roman Emperor was the emperor.
- Christina of Sweden was the Queen of Sweden. She was a very intelligent and well-educated ruler.
