Historical Events tagged with "medieval europe"

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

Louis IX Expels Jews from Bavaria

October 5th, 1450 574 years ago

Under the authority of Louis IX, Duke of Bavaria, a decree was issued for the expulsion of Jews from his jurisdiction. This action was part of a broader trend of anti-Jewish sentiment prevalent in Europe during the late Middle Ages. The expulsion reflected growing tensions between Christian and Jewish communities, leading to significant population displacement. The reasons cited included economic factors and allegations of usury, systematically targeting a marginalized group within society.

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Military & Warfare

Wallachians Defeat Ottoman Invasion at Rovine

May 17th, 1395 629 years ago

The Wallachian forces led by Mircea the Elder successfully defeated an invading Ottoman army near the Rovine River. This conflict arose as the Ottomans sought to expand their influence into Wallachia, facing a determined defense. The Wallachians utilized both tactical ingenuity and knowledge of their terrain to secure a decisive victory.

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Crime & Law

Mass Killing of Jews in Strasbourg

February 14th, 1349 676 years ago

In Strasbourg, a violent outbreak erupted leading to the deaths of several hundred Jews who were burned alive by mobs. The remnants of the Jewish community were forcibly expelled from the city. This brutal incident stemmed from widespread anti-Jewish sentiment fueled by the Black Death, as Jews were wrongfully blamed for the plague that ravaged Europe.

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Politics & Government

Henry VII Recognized as King of the Romans

July 26th, 1309 715 years ago

Pope Clement V formally recognized Henry VII as the King of the Romans in 1309, affirming his role within the Holy Roman Empire. This acknowledgment took place during a period of political turmoil and competition for imperial recognition. Henry, who was from the House of Luxembourg, had been striving to consolidate his power in the German states while also seeking legitimacy from the papacy. The recognition occurred in the context of the ongoing political struggles within the empire and the need for a united front against external threats, notably from France and the rising influence of the papacy itself.

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Military & Warfare

The Great Prussian Uprising Against Teutonic Knights

September 20th, 1260 764 years ago

In September 1260, the old Prussians launched a significant uprising against the Teutonic Knights, who had been encroaching on their territory and imposing foreign rule. This rebellion was characterized by fierce resistance from the native Prussian tribes, including the Warmians and the Natangians, who sought to reclaim their lands and autonomy. The uprising marked a critical moment in the conflict between the Teutonic Order and the indigenous Prussian people, driven by growing discontent over the forced Christianization and oppressive policies of the Knights.

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Politics & Government

Frederick II Excommunicated by Pope Gregory IX

September 29th, 1227 797 years ago

Frederick II of the Holy Roman Empire was excommunicated by Pope Gregory IX for failing to join the Crusades, which was a critical obligation for leaders of Christendom. The excommunication was part of the larger conflict between the papacy and the imperial authority during the Investiture Controversy. This conflict centered around the control and appointment of church officials, highlighting the tensions between secular and religious powers. Frederick, despite being a significant figure in the Crusades and previously leading a Crusade, had delayed his participation due to political challenges and concerns regarding the situation in Europe.

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Politics & Government

Pope Innocent III Excommunicates Otto IV

November 18th, 1210 814 years ago

Pope Innocent III issued a papal excommunication against the Holy Roman Emperor Otto IV after he invaded the Kingdom of Sicily. This occurred despite Otto IV's prior agreement to recognize papal control over the region, highlighting the tensions between secular and ecclesiastical authority. The excommunication served as a powerful tool for the Pope to assert control over Christendom and remind rulers of the consequences of disobedience.

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Politics & Government

Oaths of Strasbourg by Charles and Louis

February 14th, 842 1183 years ago

In 842, Charles the Bald and Louis the German swore mutual oaths to support each other against their brother, Lothair I, amidst the division of the Carolingian Empire. This significant act took place at Strasbourg, where both rulers expressed their commitment to unity in differing languages, underscoring their political alliance. The event not only highlighted the fractious nature of their relationship with Lothair but also set a precedent for cooperation among the splintered factions of the empire during a time of great familial and political strife.

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Politics & Government

Charlemagne's Death and Louis the Pious's Ascension

January 28th, 814 1211 years ago

The death of Charlemagne marked a pivotal transition in European power dynamics, as his son, Louis the Pious, ascended to the throne. Charlemagne's reign established a vast Frankish Empire and significantly influenced the formation of European politics and culture. His passing in Aachen, Germany, sparked uncertainties about the future direction of the empire, as Louis's leadership style diverged from his father's. Though Louis was devoted to his father's legacy, his reign faced challenges in maintaining stability across the expansive territory.

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