What Happened This Year 1296

Historical Events from This Year 1296

Military & Warfare

Edward I Orders Siege of Berwick-upon-Tweed

March 30th, 1296 729 years ago

Edward I of England launched a fierce assault on Berwick-upon-Tweed during his campaign for control over Scotland. The town was fortified and resistant, but after relentless bombardment and siege tactics, English forces overran it. This event was crucial, marking a significant escalation in the Anglo-Scottish conflict, as Berwick was a strategic port town, vital for trade and military supply lines. The capture resulted in substantial plunder for the English and a shocking blow to Scottish morale.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Scottish Army Defeated at Battle of Dunbar

April 27th, 1296 729 years ago

At the Battle of Dunbar, John Balliol's Scottish army faced a crushing defeat against the English forces led by John de Warenne, 6th Earl of Surrey. This significant battle took place shortly after the outbreak of the First War of Scottish Independence and marked a critical point in the struggle for Scottish autonomy. The English forces capitalized on their tactical superiority and decisively routed the Scots, further asserting their dominance in the region.

Continue Reading

Born in 1296

John of Bohemia

King of Bohemia and military leader
Born
August 10th, 1296 728 years ago
Died
August 26th, 1346 678 years ago — 50 years old

Ruled as King of Bohemia from 1310 until death in 1346. Prominent figure in the Hundred Years' War, fought at the Battle of Crécy. Known for promoting the rights of nobility and fostering the cultural development of Bohemia. Participated in numerous military campaigns across Europe.

Continue Reading

Hugh Despenser the Younger

English courtier and political chief
Born
1296 729 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1326 698 years ago — 30 years old

Held significant positions in the English court and was a key advisor to King Edward II. Despenser rose to power during the early 14th century, becoming the chief minister and enjoying favor with the king. His influence and close relationship with Edward II led to substantial control over land and wealth. This prompted resentment among nobility, resulting in political strife. Despenser played a central role in the conflicts leading to the king's eventual downfall and was considered a primary antagonist by his enemies. His rule faced challenges, leading to his eventual capture and execution in 1326.

Continue Reading

Gregory Palamas

Greek archbishop and theologian
Born
1296 729 years ago
Died
November 14th, 1359 665 years ago — 63 years old

Served as the archbishop of Thessalonica and became a prominent figure in the Byzantine church during the 14th century. Developed the theological doctrine of the essence and energies of God, which distinguished between God's essence and His energies. Engaged in the hesychast controversy, defending the practice of inner stillness and the mystical experience of God. His works contributed significantly to Orthodox Christian theology and spirituality.

Continue Reading

Marjorie Bruce

Scottish noblewoman and daughter of a king
Born
1296 729 years ago
Died
March 2nd, 1316 709 years ago — 20 years old

Daughter of Robert the Bruce, who was King of Scots. Married Walter Stewart, the 6th High Steward of Scotland, strengthening the ties between the Bruce and Stewart families. Her marriage produced a notable lineage that would eventually lead to the Scottish royal line. Marjorie's death occurred shortly after giving birth to a son, who became King Robert II of Scotland, the first monarch of the House of Stewart. The lineage continued to have a significant impact on Scottish history.

Continue Reading

People Who Died in 1296 (View all 8)

Przemysł II of Poland

King of Poland and Prince of Pomerania
Born
October 14th, 1257 767 years ago
Died
February 8th, 1296 729 years ago — 38 years old

Ruled as King of Poland from 1295 to 1296 and was previously Prince of Pomerania. Played a significant role in the political landscape of Poland during the late 13th century. Established the throne to reinforce the monarchy, following a period of fragmentation in Polish governance. His reign was cut short by assassination, which led to significant political turmoil in the region. His efforts contributed to the gradual unification of Polish territories.

Continue Reading

Odon de Pins

Grand Master of the Knights Hospitaller
Died
March 24th, 1296 729 years ago — None years old

Served as the Grand Master of the Knights Hospitaller during a significant period in the late 13th century. Led the order through various military campaigns and established several commanderies in Europe. Oversaw the defense of Christian territories in the Holy Land and facilitated medical care during the Crusades. Contributed to the organizational structure of the order, enhancing its influence across the Mediterranean region.

Continue Reading

Pope Celestine V

Pope and founder of a monastic order
Born
1215 810 years ago
Died
May 19th, 1296 728 years ago — 81 years old

Celestine V was elected Pope in 1294 after a lengthy conclave that lasted nearly two years. Prior to his papacy, he founded the Order of Peter Celestine, a hermit order dedicated to a life of asceticism. His reign as Pope was marked by efforts to reform the church and the struggle with political influences on papal authority. After only a few months in office, he abdicated the papacy, becoming one of the few Popes to resign voluntarily. Following his resignation, he was imprisoned by his successor to prevent his return to power, living the remainder of his life in a solitary manner until his death in 1296.

Continue Reading

Edmund Crouchback

English politician and Lord Warden
Born
January 16th, 1245 780 years ago
Died
June 5th, 1296 728 years ago — 51 years old

Born in 1245, held the title of Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports. Served as a political figure during the reign of Henry III and contributed to the governance of England. Recognized for involvement in regional matters and the defense of English territory.

Continue Reading

Floris V

Count of Holland and Zeeland
Born
June 24th, 1254 770 years ago
Died
June 27th, 1296 728 years ago — 42 years old

Ruled Holland and Zeeland from 1256 until 1296. Floris V played a significant role in the politics of the region during his reign. He expanded the counties and strengthened his alliances through strategic marriages and agreements. His tenure was marked by efforts to improve the rights and privileges of the nobility and towns. Floris V was captured by his enemies during a conflict over territorial disputes and was later murdered in 1296, leading to a power struggle in the region.

Continue Reading

Hugh

French crusader and Count of Brienne
Died
August 9th, 1296 728 years ago — None years old

Served as a prominent military leader during the Crusades, holding the title of Count of Brienne. Engaged in various campaigns aimed at securing and expanding Christian territories in the Holy Land. Participated in the Eighth Crusade and made contributions to several military endeavors in the region. Involved in the defense and administration of lands in France and was influential in the feudal system of that era.

Continue Reading