1650s facts for kids
| Millennium: | 2nd millennium |
| Centuries: | 16th century – 17th century – 18th century |
| Decades: | 1620s 1630s 1640s – 1650s – 1660s 1670s 1680s |
| Years: | 1650 1651 1652 1653 1654 1655 1656 1657 1658 1659 |
| Categories: | Births – Deaths – Architecture Establishments – Disestablishments |
The 1650s were an exciting time in history! Many powerful leaders were in charge of countries around the world. This decade saw big changes in places like England, France, and Russia. Let's explore some of the important people who shaped these years.
Contents
Important Leaders of the 1650s
During the 1650s, different countries had different types of rulers. Some were kings, while others were emperors or even "Lord Protectors." These leaders made important decisions for their people.
European Kings and Queens
- King Frederick III of Denmark (1648–1670): He was the King of Denmark and Norway. He worked to make his power stronger during his rule.
- King Louis XIV of France (1643–1715): Known as the "Sun King," Louis XIV was one of the longest-reigning monarchs in history. He made France a very powerful country in Europe.
- King John II of Poland (1649–1668): He was the King of Poland and Grand Duke of Lithuania. His reign saw many conflicts.
- King John IV of Portugal (1640–1656): He was the first King of Portugal from the House of Braganza. He helped Portugal regain its independence.
- King Afonso VI of Portugal (1656–1667): He became King after his father, John IV. His rule was also a time of challenges for Portugal.
- King Philip IV of Spain (1621–1665): He was the King of Spain and Portugal (until 1640). He ruled during a period when Spain was still a major world power.
- Queen Christina of Sweden (1632–1654): She was a very intelligent and well-educated queen. She decided to give up her throne in 1654.
- King Charles X of Sweden (1654–1660): He became King after Christina. He was a military leader and fought in several wars.
Other Powerful Rulers
- Oliver Cromwell (1653–1658): He was the Lord Protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland. This meant he was the head of state during a time when England did not have a king.
- Richard Cromwell (1658–1659): He took over as Lord Protector after his father, Oliver Cromwell, passed away. His time in power was short.
- Ferdinand III, Holy Roman Emperor (1637–1657): He was the ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, a large group of states in Central Europe.
- Leopold I, Holy Roman Emperor (1658–1705): He became Emperor after Ferdinand III. He was an important ruler who faced many challenges.
- Aleksey I of Russia (1645–1676): He was the Tsar of Russia. A "Tsar" was the emperor of Russia. He helped expand Russia's territory.
Important Events and Places
The 1650s also saw important places grow and change. For example, a city that would become very famous in America was officially started.
-
February 2, 1653: New Amsterdam is incorporated.
New Amsterdam was a Dutch settlement that later became New York City. In 1653, it officially became a city. This was a big step in its growth!
More to Explore
In Spanish: Años 1650 para niños
