Events from 1540

Statute of Wills - allows devise of land by will, compensating landowners for Statute of Uses

First tomatoes arrive in Spain - initially grown as ornamental curiosity, feared poisonous due to nightshade family

Portuguese introduce chili peppers to Indonesia - becomes 'cabai', integrates with existing spice culture

Pope Paul III approves Society of Jesus with Bull 'Regimini Militantis' - Unique fourth vow of special obedience to Pope - Ignatius elected first Superior General - 'Go and set the world on fire'