Historical Events tagged with "history"

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

Theodosius III Resigns, Leo III Ascends

March 25th, 717 1307 years ago

Theodosius III chose to resign from the Byzantine throne, transitioning to a life of clergy. This pivotal decision allowed Leo III to take over, marking the beginning of the Isaurian dynasty. Their reign would significantly shape the future of the Byzantine Empire, particularly in its military and administrative structures.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Ragenfrid Bests Theudoald at Compiègne

September 26th, 715 1309 years ago

Ragenfrid, a mayor of the palace, defeated Theudoald, the son of Charles Martel's half-brother, at the Battle of Compiègne. This conflict took place in what is now northern France, as part of the ongoing power struggles among the Frankish nobility. The outcome significantly impacted the Merovingian dynasty and altered alliances among the nobility. Ragenfrid's victory cemented his influence and control, shaping the future of regional governance.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Plectrude's Rise After Pepin of Herstal's Death

December 16th, 714 1310 years ago

Pepin of Herstal passed away in Jupille, leading to a significant power shift within the Frankish Kingdom. Succeeded by his young grandson, Theudoald, real authority rested with Pepin's widow, Plectrude. She became the de facto ruler during this uncertain period, navigating the complexities of Frankish politics and safeguarding her family's influence amidst challenges from rival factions.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Princess Abe Becomes Empress Genmei

August 18th, 707 1317 years ago

Princess Abe ascended to the Japanese throne as Empress Genmei, marking a new era in the imperial lineage. Her reign began following her predecessor, Empress Jitō, emphasizing the role of female emperors in Japanese history. This transition underscored the significance of imperial women in maintaining the dynastic continuity and ensuring political stability during a time of shifting power dynamics in Japan. Empress Genmei's ascension was crucial in solidifying the authority of the Yamato clan and setting precedents for future female rulers in Japan.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Public Execution of Leontios and Tiberios III

February 15th, 706 1319 years ago

Byzantine emperor Justinian II ordered the public execution of his predecessors, Leontios and Tiberios III, in the Hippodrome of Constantinople. This brutal act was a strong statement of control, removing potential rivals. The Hippodrome, a central public space for the Byzantine populace, witnessed the violent culmination of political rivalries that had characterized the era. This execution reaffirmed Justinian II's authority and set a precedent for the ruthless elimination of political opponents.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Wu Zetian Becomes China's Only Empress

October 17th, 690 1334 years ago

Wu Zetian proclaimed herself the Empress of China, establishing the Zhou Dynasty. This significant change took place in the capital, Luoyang, where Wu declared the end of the Tang Dynasty and initiated her reign. As China's only female emperor, she aimed to consolidate power and transform governance in a male-dominated society. Her rule focused on promoting meritocracy and strengthening the central government, which garnered both support and resentment among Confucian scholars and officials.

Continue Reading
Religion & Philosophy

Pope Benedict II's Confirmation by Byzantine Emperor

June 26th, 684 1340 years ago

Pope Benedict II became the last pope to require confirmation from the Byzantine emperor, marking a significant moment in the relationship between the papacy and the Byzantine Empire. His election followed the death of Pope Leo II and emphasized the political connections that existed between the papacy and the Byzantine throne, which held considerable influence over ecclesiastical matters in the West. This event underscored the complexities of papal authority during a time when the church faced various political and theological challenges.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Kaaba Catches Fire During Meccan Siege

October 31st, 683 1341 years ago

During a siege in Mecca, the Kaaba was set ablaze, destroying its physical form. The incident was part of the larger conflict involving the Umayyad and rebel forces. As the city experienced upheaval, the sacred structure became a casualty of war, leading to significant religious and political ramifications. The fire engulfed the Kaaba, marking a pivotal moment in Islamic history.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Massacre of Medina's Citizens by Yazid I

August 26th, 683 1341 years ago

Yazid I's forces besieged Medina, killing around 11,000 inhabitants, including notable companions of the Prophet Muhammad. This confrontation arose from the city's refusal to pledge allegiance to Yazid's rule. The brutal actions of the army were a significant response to the resistance faced in the region, leading to widespread devastation and loss of life.

Continue Reading