Historical Events tagged with "egypt"
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.
Byzantine Fleet's Surprise Attack on Damietta
A Byzantine fleet launched a surprise attack on Damietta, Egypt, taking advantage of its undefended status. The city was quickly overrun and subjected to looting and destruction. The raid was significant for asserting Byzantine naval power in the region and showcased the vulnerabilities of Egyptian coastal defenses.
Continue Reading'Amr ibn al-'As's Victory at Heliopolis
The Muslim Arab army, led by 'Amr ibn al-'As, faced the Byzantine forces near Heliopolis, Egypt, deploying tactical maneuvers that led to a decisive victory. With a smaller and more mobile force, 'Amr executed a surprise attack on the Byzantians, catching them off guard. This defeat marked a significant moment in the Muslim conquests of the region, as it opened the door to further advances into Egypt, aiding the rapid expansion of Islam.
Continue ReadingThe Graffito of Esmet-Akhom Written
The Graffito of Esmet-Akhom is the latest known inscription in Egyptian hieroglyphs. It was discovered in the city of Luxor, Egypt, and represents a significant milestone in the study of ancient Egyptian writing. This graffito provides valuable insights into the linguistic and cultural practices of the time. Written by a priest named Esmet-Akhom, the inscription contains details about temple activities, divine honors, and societal norms that prevailed during that period, showcasing the continued use of hieroglyphs even as the Roman Empire dominated the region.
Continue ReadingDevastating Crete Earthquake and Tsunami
The Greek island of Crete experienced a massive earthquake with an extreme Mercalli intensity of XI, which occurred on July 21, 365. This seismic event triggered a significant tsunami that impacted coastal regions of Libya and Egypt, most notably Alexandria. The resulting destruction led to the loss of thousands of lives and widespread devastation in the affected areas. The earthquake and tsunami showcased the vulnerability of ancient cities to natural disasters.
Continue ReadingAthanasius Becomes Patriarch of Alexandria
Athanasius was elected the Patriarch of Alexandria following the death of his predecessor, Peter II. His elevation marked the beginning of a significant leadership period within the early Christian church. As a staunch opponent of Arianism, Athanasius played a vital role in doctrinal debates, shaping Christian orthodoxy. His leadership would influence religious practices and enflame theological disputes for decades.
Continue ReadingPappus Observes Solar Eclipse and Comments
Pappus of Alexandria, a revered Greek philosopher, observed a solar eclipse and subsequently authored a commentary on the significant astronomical work known as The Great Astronomer, attributed to Ptolemy. His observations added to the knowledge of celestial movements and their implications for Earth. The commentary provided insights into the mathematical calculations behind eclipses, influencing the future understanding of astronomy.
Continue ReadingTiberius Julius Alexander Declares Vespasian Emperor
In Alexandria, Tiberius Julius Alexander commanded his Roman legions to pledge allegiance to Vespasian, amidst the chaos of the Year of the Four Emperors. This act was crucial for Vespasian's ascension, as it provided legitimacy and military support during a turbulent period marked by civil strife and competing claimants for the Roman throne. Tiberius, a former procurator of Judea, played a pivotal role in influencing the loyalties of the influential legions stationed in Egypt, a key region for grain supply.
Continue Reading