Historical Events tagged with "12th century"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Religion & Philosophy

Bernard of Clairvaux Advocates Second Crusade

March 31st, 1146 878 years ago

Bernard of Clairvaux delivered a compelling sermon at Vézelay, calling for the Second Crusade in front of an assembled crowd, including King Louis VII of France. In this influential discourse, Bernard emphasized the spiritual duty of Christians to reconquer the Holy Land, notably highlighting the plight of the church and the loss of Jerusalem to Muslim forces. Louis VII, inspired by Bernard's passionate appeal, pledged his support and joined the Crusade, marking a significant moment in the history of the ecclesiastical and political landscape of 12th-century France. This event galvanized many to take up the call for a new crusade.

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Science & Technology

Robert of Chester's Latin Translation of Alchemy

February 11th, 1144 881 years ago

Robert of Chester completed his significant translation of the 'Liber de compositione alchemiae' from Arabic into Latin, which played a crucial role in the development of Western alchemical thought. This translation facilitated the integration of Arabic scientific knowledge into European intellectual traditions and marked a pivotal moment in the history of alchemy.

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Military & Warfare

Yelü Dashi's Victory at the Battle of Qatwan

September 9th, 1141 883 years ago

General Yelü Dashi of the Liao dynasty led his forces to a significant victory against the Seljuq and Kara-Khanid forces at the Battle of Qatwan. This confrontation, which took place in Central Asia, showcased Yelü Dashi's military acumen and strategic prowess. His success solidified the power of the Qara Khitai state, allowing it to emerge as a formidable influence in the region, notably against its rivals. The triumph revealed the shifting power dynamics in Central Asia during the 12th century.

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Military & Warfare

Clash of Armies at the Battle of the Standard

August 22nd, 1138 886 years ago

The Battle of the Standard was a significant military confrontation between Scotland and England that took place in Northumberland. It occurred as a result of King David I of Scotland's ambition to extend his territories into northern England. The English forces, under the command of the Earl of Northumberland, gathered to defend their land from the Scots' incursion. A notable feature of the battle was the standard carried by the English troops, which symbolized their determination and unity. The conflict ended with a decisive English victory, forcing the Scots to retreat.

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Religion & Philosophy

Maginulfo's Election as Antipope Sylvester IV

November 18th, 1105 919 years ago

Maginulfo, a cleric backed by certain factions, was elected Antipope Sylvester IV during a period of heated conflict between rival factions within the Church. His election was a direct challenge to Pope Paschal II, who had been recognized as the legitimate pope. This event took place amidst the broader political struggles in Italy, reflecting the intense power dynamics and disagreements within the Church at the time.

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