Historical Events from This Year 1187
Saladin's Victory at the Battle of Hattin
The Battle of Hattin was a crucial confrontation during the Crusades, where Saladin decisively defeated Guy of Lusignan, the King of Jerusalem. Fought near Tiberias in present-day Israel, Saladin's forces employed strategic maneuvers against the Crusader army, which was weakened by thirst and exhaustion. This pivotal battle led to the fall of Jerusalem and the significant weakening of Christian control in the Holy Land.
Continue ReadingSaladin Initiates Siege of Jerusalem
The Siege of Jerusalem was a critical military campaign led by the Muslim leader Saladin, aiming to reclaim the city from Crusader control. The siege marked a significant moment in the conflict between the Muslim and Christian states during the Crusades, as Jerusalem held immense religious and strategic importance. Saladin's forces began surrounding the city, employing various siege tactics to breach its defenses and cut off supplies, showcasing both military strategy and determination to capture the holy city.
Continue ReadingElection of Pope Clement III
Pope Clement III was elected by the College of Cardinals, marking a significant moment in the governance of the Catholic Church. Born Paolo Scolari, he was favored for the papacy due to his diplomatic skills and previous positions within the Church. His election came during a period of political instability in both the Church and Europe, with ongoing disputes involving secular rulers and religious authority. The conclave that led to his election took place in Rome, culminating in a choice that would steer the Church during critical years of the Medieval period.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1187
Arthur I
Served as Duke of Brittany from 1186 until death in 1203. Arthur I was the son of Geoffrey, Duke of Brittany, and Constance of Brittany. Following the death of King Richard I of England, claimed the English throne as a rival to his uncle, King John of England. Engaged in conflicts that surrounded the Angevin Empire and struggled to maintain Breton independence amidst English influence.
Continue ReadingLouis VIII
Ruled as King of France from 1223 until death in 1226. Participated in the Albigensian Crusade, aiming to eliminate Catharism in southern France. Strengthened the French monarchy and centralized power. Engaged in conflicts with England, including a military campaign against King John. Extended royal influence in territories like Languedoc and Poitou. His reign marked efforts to enhance the authority of the crown over the nobility.
Continue ReadingPeople Who Died in 1187
Raynald of Châtillon
A knight from the Crusader states, played a significant role during the Crusades. Participated in the Second Crusade and established himself as a prominent figure in the conflict. Captured and ruled the city of Kerak in modern-day Jordan, strengthening the presence of the Crusaders in the region. Conducted raids against Muslim caravans, which drew the ire of influential Muslim leaders. Lead forces during the pivotal Battle of Hattin in 1187, where his capture marked a significant moment in the conflict between the Crusaders and Muslim armies. Executed following the battle by Saladin.
Continue ReadingPope Urban III
Served as the pope from 1185 until death in 1187. Urban III faced significant challenges during his papacy, particularly relating to the Crusades. His tenure was marked by the ongoing conflicts between Christian and Muslim forces in the Holy Land, especially in response to the fall of Jerusalem in 1187. Urban III sought to rally support for the Christian cause and was deeply involved in the affairs of the church during a period of turmoil. His papacy is often overshadowed by the events of the time, particularly the loss of Jerusalem under Saladin's leadership, which acted as a catalyst for new calls to action among Western Christendom.
Continue ReadingEmperor Gaozong of Song
Ruled as the third emperor of the Song Dynasty from 1127 until 1187. Played a crucial role in the establishment of the Southern Song Dynasty after the fall of the northern territories. Oversaw key military strategies against the Jurchen Jin dynasty and focused on strengthening the economy and administration. Promoted Confucianism and culture during the reign, which influenced subsequent generations. His reign marked a period of significant cultural and economic development in Southern China.
Continue ReadingPope Gregory VIII
Elected as pope in 1187, this religious leader played a significant role during the Third Crusade. His papacy was marked by efforts to rally support for Christian forces against Muslim armies. The pontiff issued the papal bull 'Audita Tremendi' to encourage European monarchs to unite for the campaign to reclaim Jerusalem following its capture by Saladin. His tenure as pope lasted only a few months until his death later that year.
Continue ReadingGao Zong
Ascended the throne as the third emperor of the Song Dynasty in 1127, leading during a period of significant military challenge and internal strife. His reign faced the Jurchen invasion which resulted in the loss of northern China, prompting the relocation of the capital to Lin'an. Focused on strengthening the southern Song administration, he instituted various reforms and sought to stabilize the economy. Gao Zong's leadership and decisions during this tumultuous time helped to establish a foundation for the future of the southern Song Dynasty, which enjoyed a period of relative stability and cultural flourishing.
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