1643. Battle of Rocroy, between the French and Spaniards, in which the French under the duke d'Enghien gained a signal victory.
1651. Peter Wright, chaplain to the marquis of Winchester, executed. Romanist priests were viewed in the same light as highway robbers.
1656. John Hales died; an English author, so much admired for his wit and learning, that he is called the ever memorable.
1670. Ferdinando Ugheli, a Florentine monk, died; distinguished for his learning and his virtues.
1676. John Greenhill died; an eminent English painter.
1692. Battle of La Hogue; the combined English and Dutch fleets defeated the French of 50 sail, who lost 20 of their largest men of war, and were prevented from making a descent on England.
1715. Charles Montague, earl Halifax, died; an eminent English statesman, orator and poet.
1769. Cardinal Ganganelli proclaimed pope under the title of Clement XIV.
1776. Captain Mugford having secured his prize (see [May 17]) and put to sea again, was attacked by 13 British boats, whom he beat off; but was himself killed, being the only person injured.
1780. Dark day in New England, occasioned by a thin cloud or vapor. The people dined by candlelight, and the darkness of the night is represented as Egyptian.