What Happened This Year 1309

Historical Events from This Year 1309

Politics & Government

Pope Clement V Excommunicates Venice Over Ferrara

March 27th, 1309 715 years ago

Pope Clement V declared excommunication and interdiction against Venice after its seizure of Ferrara, which was a papal fiefdom. This bold move aimed to penalize the Venetian Republic for its aggression and to reinforce papal authority. The decision was significant as it sought to limit Venice's commercial activities, impacting trade and relations with other states.

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Politics & Government

Henry VII Recognized as King of the Romans

July 26th, 1309 715 years ago

Pope Clement V formally recognized Henry VII as the King of the Romans in 1309, affirming his role within the Holy Roman Empire. This acknowledgment took place during a period of political turmoil and competition for imperial recognition. Henry, who was from the House of Luxembourg, had been striving to consolidate his power in the German states while also seeking legitimacy from the papacy. The recognition occurred in the context of the ongoing political struggles within the empire and the need for a united front against external threats, notably from France and the rising influence of the papacy itself.

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Military & Warfare

Castilian Forces Capture Gibraltar in Reconquista

September 12th, 1309 715 years ago

The First Siege of Gibraltar marked a crucial moment in the Spanish Reconquista as the Kingdom of Castile launched an assault against the Emirate of Granada. Led by the nobleman Alfonso Pérez de Guzmán, the Castilian forces besieged the city, culminating in a decisive victory. Gibraltar, strategically located, was essential for controlling the Strait of Gibraltar, which served as a significant maritime route. The siege began amid ongoing tensions over territorial disputes in the region, contributing to the eventual decline of Moorish power in the Iberian Peninsula.

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Born in 1309

Guy VIII of Viennois

Dauphin of Vienne
Born
1309 716 years ago
Died
July 28th, 1333 691 years ago — 24 years old

Held the title of Dauphin of Vienne, which was a significant position in the region during the 14th century. Governed the region amid political complexities and conflicts of that era. Contributed to the local administration and was involved in the noble affairs of Vienne, influencing the region's stability and governance.

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Levon IV

King of Armenia during the 14th century
Born
1309 716 years ago
Died
August 28th, 1341 683 years ago — 32 years old

Ruled as the King of Armenia from 1301 until death in 1341. Ascended to the throne amidst internal and external challenges. His reign included efforts to consolidate power and address the issues facing the Armenian kingdom. Engaged in diplomacy with neighboring states and aimed to maintain Armenian autonomy during a tumultuous period. Undertook initiatives to strengthen the economy and cultural identity of Armenia, navigating through the complexities of the medieval political landscape.

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Rupert I

Elector Palatine of the Rhine
Born
1309 716 years ago
Died
February 16th, 1390 635 years ago — 81 years old

Rupert I served as Elector Palatine from 1385 until his death in 1390. He was a member of the House of Wittelsbach and played a significant role in the politics of the Holy Roman Empire. His reign was marked by territorial expansion and the establishment of the Palatine holdings in the region. As a ruler, he focused on strengthening the influence of the Palatinate and consolidating power among the nobility. Rupert was deeply involved in the military and political struggles of his time, navigating the complex alliances and rivalries that characterized late medieval Germany.

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People Who Died in 1309

Elisabeth von Rapperswil

Swiss countess and noble leader
Born
1261 764 years ago
Died
April 10th, 1309 715 years ago — 48 years old

A countess in Switzerland during the late 13th and early 14th centuries, she held significant influence over regional politics and nobility. Elisabeth governed the Castle of Rapperswil, enhancing its importance. As a member of the medieval noble class, she participated in various alliances and conflicts that shaped local governance during her time. Her legacy is intertwined with the development of Rapperswil as a political and economic center in the region. Elisabeth's life concluded in 1309, marking the end of her contributions to Swiss nobility.

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Charles II of Naples

King of Naples and Sicily
Born
1254 771 years ago
Died
May 5th, 1309 715 years ago — 55 years old

Ruled as King of Naples and Sicily from 1285 until death in 1309. Played a significant role in the politics of the Italian peninsula and the Mediterranean region. His reign was marked by conflicts with rival factions and efforts to consolidate power among the territories under his control. Engaged in various military campaigns and diplomacy to strengthen the Angevin dynasty.

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