Death by burning (also known as immolation) is an execution method involving combustion or exposure to extreme heat. It has a long history as a form of public capital punishment, and many societies have employed it as a punishment for and warning against crimes such as treason, heresy and witchcraft. The best-known execution of this type is burning at the stake, where the condemned is bound to a large wooden stake and a fire lit beneath.
The Stratford Martyrs were eleven men and two women who were burned at the stake together for their Protestant beliefs, either at Stratford-le-Bow, Middlesex or Stratford, Essex, both near London, on 27 June 1556 during the Marian persecutions.
1556Jun, 27
The thirteen Stratford Martyrs are burned at the stake near London for their Protestant beliefs.
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Events on 1556
- 23Jan
1556 Shaanxi earthquake
The deadliest earthquake in history, the Shaanxi earthquake, hits Shaanxi province, China. The death toll may have been as high as 830,000. - 21Mar
Thomas Cranmer
In Oxford, Archbishop of Canterbury Thomas Cranmer is burned at the stake. - 15Sep
Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor
Departing from Vlissingen, ex-Holy Roman Emperor Charles V returns to Spain.