Historical Events tagged with "political intrigue"
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.
Edward III crowned, ruled by Isabella and Mortimer
Edward III was crowned King of England at a young age, while real power was in the hands of his mother, Queen Isabella, and her lover, Roger Mortimer. This political arrangement followed the deposition of his father, Edward II, leading to an unusual governance dynamic. The coronation occurred amidst tensions following a period of instability and intrigue that marked the end of Edward II's reign. As a young king, Edward III’s ceremonial ascension underscored a delicate balance of power in England's monarchy.
Continue ReadingOverthrow of King Kyawswa of Pagan
The three Myinsaing brothers, led by Sawlu, overthrew King Kyawswa of the Pagan Kingdom, signifying the disintegration of centralized power in the region. This coup was primarily driven by internal power struggles and discontent among the noble families within the kingdom. As the ruling authority was eliminated, a new era of political fragmentation emerged, changing the landscape of the region.
Continue ReadingAssassination of Conrad of Montferrat
Conrad of Montferrat, recently confirmed King of Jerusalem, was assassinated in Tyre by agents of the Hashshashin just two days after his election. This murder marked a significant shift in the power dynamics of the Crusader states, as it eliminated a key ruler and added to the instability of the region.
Continue ReadingHashshashin Target Saladin Near Aleppo
An attempted assassination of Saladin near Aleppo was orchestrated by the Hashshashin, a secretive sect known for their skilled assassins. In a bold strike, they aimed to eliminate the powerful Muslim leader, Saladin, prominent in the Crusades. The assault highlighted the ongoing struggle for power during this turbulent era in the Middle East and showcased the tactics of the Assassins, who used stealth and precision to pursue their political goals.
Continue ReadingMichael V Proclaimed Emperor of Byzantium
Michael V, the adoptive son of Empress Zoë, was proclaimed emperor of the Eastern Roman Empire following a power struggle within the imperial court. His ascension came amid political turmoil and rivalry, as Zoë sought to secure her influence and the continuation of her line on the throne. The ceremony celebrated in Constantinople marked a significant moment for the empire's future leadership. Michael’s elevation to power reflected the complexities of Byzantine imperial succession and the role of women in Byzantine politics.
Continue ReadingLi Shimin Ambushes Rivals at Xuanwu Gate
Li Shimin, later known as Emperor Taizong of Tang, orchestrated an ambush at the Xuanwu Gate against his brothers, Li Jiancheng and Li Yuanji. Tensions had been rising in the Tang dynasty's royal family as power struggles intensified. Li Shimin's strategic maneuver resulted in the death of his siblings, eliminating key rivals and allowing him to ascend to power as the second emperor of the Tang dynasty. This violent confrontation played a pivotal role in determining the future course of Chinese history.
Continue ReadingCapture and Execution of Anthemius in Rome
Western Roman Emperor Anthemius was besieged by his own generals in Rome. As the power struggle escalated, Anthemius sought refuge in St. Peter's Basilica. Despite the sanctuary, he was captured and subsequently executed, marking a significant shift in power dynamics during the waning years of the Western Roman Empire.
Continue ReadingAssassination of Emperor Valentinian II
Emperor Valentinian II was found dead in Vienne, hanging in his residence. His assassination occurred as he was preparing to advance into Gaul to confront the Frankish usurper Arbogast. Speculation arose regarding the circumstances of his death, with many questioning who was responsible for this sudden turn of events during a critical moment in his rule.
Continue ReadingLü Bu's Betrayal of Dong Zhuo
Lü Bu assassinated his adoptive father Dong Zhuo in a coup. Motivated by ambition and dissatisfaction, Lü partnered with Wang Yun, a court official, to enact the plan. The assassination happened within the capital, Luoyang, a stronghold of Dong Zhuo's power, marking a significant turning point in the power struggle during the late Eastern Han dynasty.
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