Historical Events tagged with "Avignon"
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 States Cede Avignon to France
In 1791, Avignon was formally ceded to Revolutionary France by the Papal States, marking a significant territorial loss for the Pope. This occurred amidst the backdrop of the broader French Revolution, which aimed to establish a republic and diminish the power of monarchies and religious authorities. The annexation of Avignon was motivated by both strategic interests and the revolutionary fervor that sought to unify France. This region had been under papal control since the 14th century, and its loss was emblematic of the changing political landscape in Europe.
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 ReadingFranciscans Escape Avignon to Avoid Papal Sentence
William of Ockham, along with Franciscan Minister-General Michael of Cesena and two other Franciscan leaders, made a clandestine departure from Avignon. They fled due to fears of a death sentence imposed by Pope John XXII as tensions between the Pope and Franciscan scholars intensified over theological disputes and poverty within the Church. This secretive exit aimed to ensure their safety amid increasing threats.
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