Historical Events tagged with "coup"

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.

Politics & Government

Cao Qin's Coup Against the Tianshun Emperor

August 7th, 1461 563 years ago

Cao Qin, a military general, led a coup against the Tianshun Emperor in China, seeking to seize control of the Ming dynasty. The coup was motivated by political dissatisfaction within the court and grievances against the emperor's rule. The incident unfolded within the context of a military-led political landscape marked by power struggles and intrigue. Cao's ambitions reflected broader tensions in the Ming dynasty during a time when military leaders held significant sway over political affairs.

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Politics & Government

Yongle Emperor Becomes Ruler of Ming Dynasty

July 17th, 1402 622 years ago

Zhu Di, known as the Yongle Emperor, ascended to the throne after a successful coup against his nephew. He established his reign in Nanjing, marking a significant shift in Ming dynasty politics. His rule is recognized for improvements in trade, culture, and exploration, including sponsoring the voyages of Zheng He. The Yongle Emperor's ascension was pivotal in consolidating autocratic power in China.

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Politics & Government

Edward III Becomes King of England

January 25th, 1327 698 years ago

Edward III ascended the throne as a result of a coup led by Queen Isabella and her lover, Roger Mortimer, who forced his father, King Edward II, to abdicate. Isabella, discontent with her husband’s rule and seeking power for her son, orchestrated a rebellion against Edward II. The young Edward's coronation marked a significant shift in the English monarchy, leading to the establishment of a regency to guide him during his minority.

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Politics & Government

Coup Against George Mouzalon and His Brothers

August 25th, 1258 766 years ago

Regent George Mouzalon and his brothers were killed in a coup led by Michael VIII Palaiologos and an aristocratic faction. This violent takeover occurred in the Empire of Nicaea, which marked a significant shift in power dynamics within the empire, paving the way for Michael VIII to solidify his claim to the throne.

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Politics & Government

Alexios I Komnenos seizes Byzantine throne

April 1st, 1081 943 years ago

Alexios I Komnenos led a coup against Emperor Nikephoros III Botaneiates, successfully overthrowing him. Following the coup, Alexios’ troops spent approximately three days indulging in extensive looting throughout Constantinople, before he was formally crowned as the new emperor on April 4. This marked a significant shift in Byzantine leadership and military influence.

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Politics & Government

Guo Wei Proclaims Himself Emperor of Later Zhou

February 11th, 951 1074 years ago

Guo Wei, a prominent court official, executed a military coup, overthrowing the existing regime to establish the Later Zhou dynasty. This coup took place in the capital city, Kaifeng, where Guo Wei declared himself emperor, marking the rise of a new power amidst the fragmentation of the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period. The dynamics of loyalty and ambition among military officials were pivotal, as Guo leveraged his military strength and strategic alliances to seize power.

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Politics & Government

Constantine VII Becomes Sole Emperor of Byzantium

January 27th, 945 1080 years ago

Constantine VII overthrew co-emperors Stephen and Constantine, forcing them into monastic life. This political maneuver solidified his control over the Byzantine Empire and marked a notable shift in leadership dynamics. With their removal, Constantine aimed to consolidate power and restore stability amid internal strife.

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Politics & Government

Wang Geon Overthrows Gung Ye to Become King

July 25th, 918 1106 years ago

Wang Geon, a military leader, rose to power in Goryeo by orchestrating a successful coup against Gung Ye. This strategic move not only ended Gung Ye's tumultuous reign but also marked the start of Wang Geon's long and influential rule. The coup took place in the capital, establishing a new dynasty that would significantly shape Korean history.

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Politics & Government

Philippicus Blind and Exiled; Anastasios II Rises

June 3rd, 713 1311 years ago

Philippicus, the Byzantine emperor, was overthrown by conspirators from the Opsikion army in Thrace, who also had him blinded and exiled. Following this coup, Anastasios II took the throne, initiating significant reforms in the Byzantine military structure. This transition marked a pivotal moment for the empire, as Anastasios II aimed to stabilize and strengthen imperial authority.

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