What Happened This Year 1161

Born in 1161

Emperor Takakura of Japan

Japanese Emperor during the Heian period
Born
September 20th, 1161 863 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1181 844 years ago — 19 years old

Reigned as the 77th Emperor of Japan during the late Heian period from 1168 to 1180. Ascended the throne at a young age and faced political challenges from various factions within the court. Engaged in conflicts involving the Taira and Minamoto clans, which ultimately led to the Genpei War. Abdicated in favor of his younger half-brother due to ongoing power struggles. Died in 1181.

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Baldwin IV of Jerusalem

King of Jerusalem, leprosy sufferer
Born
1161 864 years ago
Died
March 16th, 1185 839 years ago — 24 years old

Baldwin IV ruled as King of Jerusalem from 1174 until his death in 1185. He ascended the throne at the age of 13 following the death of his father, Amalric I. Baldwin's reign was marked by military campaigns against Saladin, the Sultan of Egypt and Syria, culminating in the notable Battle of Montgisard in 1177, where Baldwin achieved a significant victory despite his illness. The king suffered from leprosy, which eventually incapacitated him and affected his ability to govern effectively. His reign saw the fragmentation of the Crusader states and internal struggles among the nobility. Baldwin IV's health deteriorated over time, and he died at the age of 24, leaving a weakened kingdom that faced imminent threats from Saladin.

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