England, the Dutch Republic, and Sweden sign the Triple Alliance against France.
Browse Historical Events by Month:
What Happened in January?
Tragic deaths, ravaged cities, and great acts of heroism. Discover what happened this month in history and the defining moments that shaped the world. Dates for earlier events may be approximate.
Note: Sources for the historical content shown, include research and reviews of relevant Online History Resources or printed material. When possible, we show a link to a source which provides additional or unique perspective about the event.
We do our best to provide accurate information but would appreciate being notified if any incorrect information is found. You may do so by using our Feedback link.
The island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic is named after Saint Helena by the English East India Company.
%20-%20PD%20-%20R.jpg?auto=format,compress&fit=clip&max-w=1600)
Henry Morgan, a Welsh pirate, attacks Panama City, Panama, looting it, causing destruction. and capturing the wealthy city from the Spanish. Morgan's attack, however, was technically illegal as it occurred after a peace treaty between England and Spain which he claimed he was not aware of.
Upon his return, he was arrested but was ultimately hailed as a hero, knighted by King Charles II, and appointed Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica.
France declares war on the Dutch Republic, initiating the Franco-Dutch War.
The Treaty of Westminster ends England's involvement in the Franco-Dutch War.
King Charles II disbands the English Parliament due to conflicts over foreign policy and taxation.
King Charles II ratifies the Treaty of Middle Plantation, guaranteeing peace between the Virginia colonists and Native American tribes.
The Treaty of Nijmegen ends the Franco-Dutch War, resulting in territorial changes and peace in Europe.
King Charles II calls the English Parliament to session after a prolonged period of dissolution.
English Quaker William Penn receives a land grant from King Charles II, founding Pennsylvania.
The Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb reopens the Hindu temple at Kashi Vishwanath in Varanasi, India.
Isaac Newton's "Principia Mathematica" is published, outlining the laws of motion and universal gravitation.
The English Convention Parliament declares that James II has abdicated the throne, opening the way for William of Orange to become King of England which happened six days later on January 22, 1689.
The Glorious Revolution in England sees William of Orange and Mary II take the throne from James II.William of Orange and become became King William III of England and Ireland . On April 4, 1689.he also became King William II of Scotland. He ruled jointly with his wife, Mary II, until her death in 1694, after which he ruled as sole monarch.
The Iroquois League signs the Treaty of Lachine, ending hostilities with the New France government.
The Williamite War in Ireland concludes with the Treaty of Limerick, granting religious freedom to Catholics under certain conditions.
The Massacre of Glencoe occurs in Scotland when government troops slaughter the MacDonald clan.
The Bank of England is chartered by the English Parliament, becoming the first national bank in the world.
The Bank of Scotland is established by an Act of the Scottish Parliament.
The Treaty of Ryswick ends the Nine Years' War (War of the Grand Alliance) between France and the Grand Alliance.