What Happened This Year 1240

People Who Died in 1240

Pelagio Galvani

Leonese lawyer and cardinal
Born
1165 860 years ago
Died
January 30th, 1240 785 years ago — 75 years old

A prominent legal scholar and cleric in 13th century Leon, held significant roles within the Spanish Catholic Church. Played a vital part in ecclesiastical administration and contributed to canon law. Worked on the development of legal frameworks and religious governance during a pivotal period of church history. Served as cardinal, influencing various church policies.

Continue Reading

Llywelyn the Great

Welsh prince and military leader
Born
1172 853 years ago
Died
April 11th, 1240 784 years ago — 68 years old

A Welsh prince who ruled as the prince of Gwynedd in the early 13th century. Established himself as a powerful figure and prominent leader in Wales during a period of conflict with England. Formed alliances and fought against the English crown to assert Welsh independence and rights. Played a pivotal role in uniting various Welsh kingdoms against external threats and influenced the political landscape of the region. His leadership culminated in securing a degree of autonomy for Wales during his reign.

Continue Reading

Razia Sultana

Only female sultan of Delhi
Died
October 14th, 1240 784 years ago — None years old

Sultana ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1236 to 1240, becoming the first and only woman to ascend to the throne in Delhi. She was the daughter of Sultan Iltutmish and took the throne after her half-brother's death. Razia faced significant opposition due to her gender and was ultimately removed from power in a coup. Her reign was marked by attempts to promote meritocracy and appointing capable administrators, irrespective of their background. The interregnum eventually led to struggles for power among various factions within the Sultanate. She died in a conflict with rival forces and became a figure of interest in subsequent historical narratives.

Continue Reading

Edmund Rich

Archbishop and saint of England
Born
1175 850 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1240 784 years ago — 65 years old

Served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1234 until death in 1240. Edmund played a significant role in the church during a period of political conflict in England. He was canonized as a saint shortly after his death due to his pious life and dedication to the church. His influence extended beyond ecclesiastical matters, as he engaged in the political struggles of his time and established strong relations with the papacy. His works included efforts to promote education and reform within the church, contributing to the spiritual and social landscape of medieval England.

Continue Reading

Ibn Arabi

Andalusian Sufi mystic and poet
Born
July 25th, 1165 859 years ago
Died
November 16th, 1240 784 years ago — 75 years old

Born in 1165 in Andalusia, a prominent Sufi mystic, poet, and philosopher flourished during the Islamic Golden Age. His philosophical teachings, particularly regarding the concept of unity of being, influenced Islamic mysticism and metaphysics significantly. Many works, including the influential 'Fusus al-Hikam' and 'Tarjuman al-Ashwaq', explore spiritual enlightenment, love, and the essence of God. The scope of his writings encompasses metaphysical poetry and profound philosophical texts. Later generations revered him as a central figure in Sufism, contributing extensively to the tradition's literature and thought.

Continue Reading