People 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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