Canute IV: Denmark's Saintly Ruler (+ 13 more historical events on this day!)

A Daily Dose of History (17 Apr 2026)

Today's historical events:

Harald III of Denmark dies and is succeeded by Canute IV, who would later be the first Dane to be canonized.

The rule of the Bavand dynasty in Mazandaran is brought to an end by the murder of Hasan II.

Kaunas Castle falls to the Teutonic Order after a month-long siege.

Spain and Christopher Columbus sign the Capitulations of Santa Fe for his voyage to Asia to acquire spices.

Trial of Martin Luther over his teachings begins during the assembly of the Diet of Worms. Initially intimidated, he asks for time to reflect before…

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