The English Parliament passes the Act of Supremacy, declaring Henry VIII Supreme Head of the Church of England and breaking with papal authority.
King Ramathibodi I founds the capital of Ayutthaya, beginning a Siamese kingdom that lasts over four centuries.
From the 16th to the 19th century, an estimated 12.5 million enslaved Africans were shipped across the Atlantic to the Americas, with profound consequences for both continents.
Ismail I proclaims himself shah in Tabriz, founding the Safavid dynasty and making Twelver Shia Islam Iran's state religion.
Suleiman I rules the Ottoman Empire at the height of its territorial, legal and cultural power.
Lê loyalists led by Nguyễn Kim enthrone Lê Trang Tông, beginning a long civil war between the restored Lê and the Mạc.