What Happened This Year 1281

Historical Events from This Year 1281

Military & Warfare

Divine Wind Destroys Kublai Khan's Fleet

August 15th, 1281 743 years ago

In the summer of 1281, a massive Mongol fleet led by Kublai Khan aimed to invade Japan, seeking to expand his empire. However, as the fleet approached the Japanese coast, a powerful typhoon struck, devastating the fleet and thwarting the invasion. This phenomenon, later referred to as 'kamikaze' or 'divine winds,' played a crucial role in preventing Mongol domination of Japan and solidified the island nation's independence.

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Politics & Government

Pope Martin IV Excommunicates King Peter III

October 18th, 1281 743 years ago

Pope Martin IV excommunicated King Peter III of Aragon for his claim to the crown of Sicily. This sentence was initially pronounced in 1281 and renewed on multiple occasions. The Pope cited Peter's usurpation and disregard for papal authority as key reasons for the excommunication, which had significant ramifications for the political landscape of the region.

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Born in 1281

Külüg Khan

Emperor of the Yuan Dynasty
Born
August 4th, 1281 743 years ago
Died
January 27th, 1311 714 years ago — 29 years old

Ruled as the Emperor Wuzong of Yuan during a period marked by attempts to consolidate the Mongol Empire's power in China. His reign faced challenges from internal conflicts and natural disasters. Focused on restoring the power of the Yuan Dynasty and enforcing the Mongol aristocracy's authority. Also engaged in efforts to suppress corruption within the administration and aimed to stabilize the economy.

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Agnes of Austria

Duchess, married to the King of Hungary
Born
1281 744 years ago
Died
June 10th, 1364 660 years ago — 83 years old

Born into the House of Habsburg, played a significant role in European politics through marriage. Became the wife of King Charles I of Hungary, strengthening ties between the Habsburg dynasty and the Kingdom of Hungary. Involved in various political intrigues and alliances, particularly during the struggles for control over Hungarian lands. After the death of her husband, focused on the welfare of her children and the management of the Habsburg territories, ensuring the continuation of the family's influence in Central Europe.

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Henry, 3rd Earl of Lancaster

English politician, Lord High Steward
Born
1281 744 years ago
Died
September 22nd, 1345 679 years ago — 64 years old

Served as the 3rd Earl of Lancaster and held the position of Lord High Steward in England. Engaged in the politics of early 14th-century England, contributing to the governance of the realm during a tumultuous period. Involved in the civil conflicts of the time, aligning with various factions to secure political influence and land. Played a significant role in regional leadership and nobility.

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Rudolf I of Bohemia

King of Bohemia and Holy Roman Emperor
Born
1281 744 years ago
Died
July 4th, 1307 717 years ago — 26 years old

Ruled as King of Bohemia and served as Holy Roman Emperor from 1273 until death in 1307. Established the House of Habsburg as a significant ruling family in Europe. Took part in various military campaigns to secure and expand territories in the region. Strived to strengthen royal authority during a period marked by territorial disputes and fragmentation within the empire.

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People Who Died in 1281

Gertrude of Hohenberg

Queen consort of Germany, marriage alliance
Died
February 16th, 1281 744 years ago — None years old

Born around 1225, Gertrude of Hohenberg was the queen consort of Germany as the wife of King Henry VII. The marriage was part of a strategic alliance that solidified political ties in the Holy Roman Empire. Gertrude's royal status brought significant attention to her lineage and connections, which played a role in the political landscape of her time. She remained a prominent figure during her husband's reign, contributing to the royal court and its affairs until her death on February 16, 1281.

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Henry V of Luxembourg

King of Germany and Holy Roman Emperor
Born
1216 809 years ago
Died
December 24th, 1281 743 years ago — 65 years old

Ruled as King of Germany from 1308 and became Holy Roman Emperor in 1111. Participated in various military campaigns, including involvement in the Italian territories. Faced challenges in maintaining control over regions while expanding the influence of the empire. Worked on political alliances through marriage and diplomacy. Engaged in conflicts related to church authority and territorial disputes, which shaped the political landscape of the Holy Roman Empire during the early 13th century.

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