What Happened This Year 1185

Historical Events from This Year 1185

Military & Warfare

Taira Clan Defeated at Yashima

March 22nd, 1185 839 years ago

The Minamoto clan delivered a decisive blow to the Taira clan at Yashima, a pivotal confrontation in the Genpei War. The battle, initiated by a naval conflict off the shores of Yashima, saw the Minamoto forces, led by Minamoto no Yoshitsune, ambush the besieged Taira warriors. Notably, the battle featured a dramatic moment where the Taira clan's ship, containing their heir, was set ablaze. The victory shifted the momentum of the Genpei War in favor of the Minamoto, leading to the eventual downfall of the Taira clan, who had dominated much of the Heian period.

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Religion & Philosophy

Queen Tamar Consecrates Vardzia Cave City

August 15th, 1185 839 years ago

Queen Tamar of Georgia consecrated the Vardzia cave city, a remarkable monastic complex carved into the cliffs of the Erusheti Mountain. This grand ceremony held deep religious significance, marking the city's dedication to Christ. Vardzia, a symbol of medieval Georgia's cultural and architectural achievements, is renowned for its intricate frescoes and impressive layout that housed hundreds of monks and pilgrims. This consecration affirmed Queen Tamar's commitment to both spirituality and the flourishing Georgian kingdom.

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Military & Warfare

Norman Assault on Thessalonica

August 24th, 1185 839 years ago

The city of Thessalonica fell to Norman forces led by Bohemond of Taranto in a swift and brutal assault. The Normans besieged the city, capturing it after a fierce defense that ultimately failed against their overwhelming numbers. Thessalonica, the second-largest city in the Byzantine Empire, was plundered, resulting in significant destruction and loss of life. The attack was motivated by Bohemond’s desire for power and to assert Norman influence in the region, posing a direct challenge to Byzantine authority.

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Politics & Government

Isaac II Angelos's Rise to Power

September 11th, 1185 839 years ago

Isaac II Angelos assassinated Stephen Hagiochristophorites in Constantinople, following which he called upon the people to support him. This act led to widespread unrest against the ruling Emperor Andronikos I Komnenos, resulting in a revolt that successfully deposed Andronikos and placed Isaac on the throne of the Byzantine Empire.

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Politics & Government

The Uprising of Asen and Peter Begins

October 26th, 1185 839 years ago

In 1185, Asen and Peter led a rebellion against Byzantine rule, which marked the beginning of the struggle for Bulgarian independence. The uprising was initiated on the feast day of St. Demetrius of Thessaloniki, reflecting the religious and patriotic fervor of the rebels. Political discontent among the Bulgarian populace, who were subjugated under Byzantine authority, fueled the flames of revolt. This event ultimately paved the way for the establishment of the Second Bulgarian Empire, a significant shift in regional power dynamics.

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