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.
Papal Bull Unigenitus Issued by Pope Clement VI
Pope Clement VI issued the papal bull Unigenitus, providing a theological foundation for the practice of indulgences. It established that only the Pope and bishops could access the treasury of merit, significantly enriching the Church's authority. Furthermore, the document instituted a jubilee year every fifty years, enhancing spiritual devotion and pilgrimage. This pivotal decree solidified the Church's position in spiritual and temporal matters.
Continue ReadingSiege and Battle of Morlaix
The siege of Morlaix involved a critical confrontation between English and French forces during the Hundred Years' War. Occurring in Brittany, the English aimed to capture the fortified town of Morlaix, which would enhance their control in the region. Led by the English commander, John Chandos, the siege began after the town's defenders rejected terms of surrender offered by the English. The battle was marked by fierce fighting, heavy casualties, and strategic maneuvers, ultimately leading to English victory and securing critical territory.
Continue ReadingThe Siege of Algeciras Begins
The Siege of Algeciras was a military operation undertaken by the Kingdom of Castile against the city of Algeciras, held by the Kingdom of Granada. Starting in 1342, the siege was part of the larger conflict during the Spanish Reconquista where Christian kingdoms sought to reclaim territory from Muslim rule in the Iberian Peninsula. The siege aimed to weaken Granada’s influence and control over the southern coast of Spain, leveraging the strategic importance of Algeciras as a port city.
Continue ReadingDevastating Flood in Central Europe
A massive flood, known as St. Mary Magdalene's flood, struck central Europe, primarily affecting the countries surrounding the Danube River. Triggered by heavy rainfall, the flood resulted in swollen rivers destroying homes and infrastructure. The towns of Prague, Vienna, and many others faced significant damage, prompting urgent relief efforts. The event, named after the feast day of St. Mary Magdalene, significantly impacted the region's economy and altered river navigation paths.
Continue ReadingProclamation of John VI Kantakouzenos as Emperor
John VI Kantakouzenos was proclaimed Byzantine Emperor, marking the formal beginning of a significant civil war in Byzantium. This proclamation occurred amidst a power struggle that followed the death of Emperor Andronikos III. John VI, a prominent noble and former regent, sought to claim the throne against rival factions led by powerful aristocrats and the patriarchate, ultimately igniting a series of conflicts within the Byzantine Empire's political landscape.
Continue ReadingDefenders of Pilenai's Mass Suicide Against Captivity
Four thousand defenders of Pilenai made the harrowing decision to commit mass suicide rather than be captured by the advancing Teutonic Knights. Facing inevitable defeat, they fortified their stronghold with the knowledge that surrender would lead to a life of servitude. The defenders chose to take their fate into their own hands, triggering an unparalleled act of courage and desperation in the face of overwhelming odds.
Continue ReadingElection of Cardinal Jacques Fournier as Pope
Cardinal Jacques Fournier, a Cistercian monk, was elected Pope Benedict XII amidst the ongoing challenges of the papacy. His election came at a critical juncture for the Catholic Church, which was dealing with political and spiritual unrest in Europe. Fournier's ascension came as part of the efforts to restore the authority of the papacy and address the issues that had arisen from the Avignon Papacy, a period characterized by the relocation of the papal court to France. His leadership aimed to unify the church and strengthen its influence during a turbulent time.
Continue ReadingNaval Victory at the Battle of Adramyttion
A Christian naval league decisively defeated a Turkish fleet at the Battle of Adramyttion, marking a significant encounter in naval warfare. This event showcased the growing military capabilities of Christian forces in the Mediterranean. The naval engagements involved various skirmishes that ultimately led to the retreat of Turkish forces. The aftermath of this victory had implications for maritime dominance and trade routes in the region, reflecting the power struggles between Christian and Muslim entities during this period.
Continue ReadingScots Defeated at Battle of Dupplin Moor
The Battle of Dupplin Moor saw the forces of Domhnall II, Earl of Mar, routed by Edward Balliol’s troops. Taking place in the region of Perthshire, Scotland, this clash was part of the larger struggle for Scottish independence. Edward Balliol, son of John Balliol, sought to reclaim the Scottish throne from Robert the Bruce's successors, leading to this pivotal encounter. The decisive victory for Balliol's forces resulted in significant repercussions for Scotland's political landscape and its fight for autonomy.
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