Historical Events tagged with "14th 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.

Military & Warfare

Victory at the Battle of Castagnaro

March 11th, 1387 638 years ago

The Battle of Castagnaro was fought between the forces of John Hawkwood, a renowned English condottiero, leading the army of Padua, and Giovanni Ordelaffi of Verona. The battle, marked by strategic maneuvering and intense combat, resulted in a decisive victory for Hawkwood’s troops. The conflict was part of the ongoing territorial disputes in Northern Italy during the late 14th century, as various city-states vied for power and control over key regions. This confrontation highlighted the tactical prowess of Hawkwood, who effectively utilized his mercenary forces against Ordelaffi.

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Politics & Government

Karl Topia's Alliance with Venice

August 17th, 1386 638 years ago

Karl Topia, the ruler of the Princedom of Albania, solidified a crucial alliance with the Republic of Venice, pledging military support to aid their conflicts while securing vital maritime protection against Ottoman incursions. This strategic partnership aimed to bolster both parties against mutual threats in the Adriatic Sea region. Through this agreement, Topia sought to enhance his authority and territorial security against the powerful Ottoman Empire that was expanding its influence in Southeast Europe.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of King Charles III in Buda

February 24th, 1386 639 years ago

King Charles III of Naples and Hungary was assassinated in Buda during a power struggle. The assassination was the result of long-standing conflicts over succession and control of the region's throne. His death marked a significant turning point in Hungarian politics, leading to a series of instability and power vacuums. Buda, the royal city, was the scene of this pivotal act that would change the course of the region's governance.

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Military & Warfare

Decisive Victory at the Battle of Aljubarrota

August 14th, 1385 639 years ago

The Battle of Aljubarrota was a crucial confrontation in which Portuguese forces, led by John I of Portugal, achieved a significant victory over the invading Castilian army under John I of Castile. Fought near the town of Aljubarrota, Portugal, this battle secured the Portuguese independence from Castilian claims and marked a turning point in the Portuguese Crisis of 1383-85. The strategic brilliance and determination of the Portuguese troops, despite being outnumbered, played a pivotal role in their triumph.

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Politics & Government

Extinction of the Male Line of Burgundy

October 22nd, 1383 641 years ago

King Fernando of Portugal dies, leaving his daughter Beatrice as the sole heir. This prompts rival factions to contest the throne, leading to widespread civil strife and conflict across the realm as various claimants vie for power, igniting a series of battles between loyalists and opponents of Beatrice.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

John Ball Executed in Presence of King Richard II

July 15th, 1381 643 years ago

John Ball, a prominent figure in the Peasants' Revolt, met his end through execution by hanging, drawing, and quartering before King Richard II. His execution followed the revolts in England, where he had called for social reforms and the end of serfdom. Ball, known for his radical sermons advocating for peasant rights, was captured amidst the revolt's suppression. His bold ideas resonated with the discontented peasants, but ultimately led to his brutal punishment as a warning to others.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Peasants' Revolt and the Burning of Savoy Palace

June 13th, 1381 643 years ago

Rebels led by Wat Tyler set fire to the Savoy Palace, a seat of the Duchy of Lancaster, in London. This aggressive act symbolized the escalating tensions between the peasantry and the ruling class during the Peasants' Revolt. The unrest arose due to grievances over high taxes and poor living conditions, compounded by the socio-economic aftermath of the Black Death. Tyler's demand for reforms highlighted the peasants' desire for greater rights and justice.

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Social Movements & Civil Rights

Rebels Gather at Blackheath, Outside London

June 12th, 1381 643 years ago

In June of 1381, a significant gathering of peasants occurred at Blackheath, just outside London. This assembly was part of the Peasants' Revolt, sparked by grievances against taxation and social inequality. Thousands of rebels, led by figures like Wat Tyler, demanded reforms from the ruling elite, particularly from King Richard II. The event was marked by a show of unity among commoners, reflecting widespread discontent with the prevailing social order. The location became a focal point for their initial mobilization.

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Religion & Philosophy

Papal Bulls Against John Wycliffe's Doctrines

May 22nd, 1377 647 years ago

Pope Gregory XI issued five papal bulls targeting the doctrines of English theologian John Wycliffe. Wycliffe, known for his critiques of the Church and advocacy for scripture in common vernacular, sparked significant theological controversies. These papal bulls underscored the growing tension between traditional Church authority and emerging reformative ideas. The Pope's actions were a response to Wycliffe's popularity and the perceived threat his teachings posed to Church doctrine. This denouncement aimed to reinforce the established beliefs of the Church in a period marked by religious transformation.

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