Born in 1328
Roger Mortimer
Held the title of 2nd Earl of March and played a significant role in the early stages of the Hundred Years' War. Captured by the French in 1346 during the Battle of Crécy, was later released and participated in various military campaigns. Involved in political matters and exerted influence over English royalty. Died in 1360.
Continue ReadingBlanche of France
Duchess of Orléans served as a political figure and noblewoman in 14th century France. Daughter of King Philip VI, she married Louis of Orléans, a prominent noble, aligning her family with the royal house. After her husband's assassination in 1407, she became involved in the political machinations of France during a turbulent period marked by civil strife among noble factions. Instrumental in her children's upbringing, she played a role in the continuation of her husband's legacy and the furthering of her family's influence in French politics.
Continue ReadingWilliam de Montagu
Served as the 2nd Earl of Salisbury and held a significant role during the early phases of the Hundred Years' War. Participated in key battles and was active in military campaigns against the French. Gained recognition for leadership in Scotland and France, and contributed to the English forces in various significant military operations.
Continue ReadingPeter I of Cyprus
Ruled as King of Cyprus from 1358 until death in 1369. Initiated military campaigns against the Mamluks and sought to expand the influence of the Kingdom of Cyprus in the Eastern Mediterranean. Participated in the Knights Templar and was involved in the Crusade efforts. Championed trade relations with Genoa and Venice, strengthening the economy of Cyprus. Commissioned construction of monuments like the Gothic Cathedral of St. Nicholas and promoted the arts during the reign.
Continue ReadingHongwu Emperor of China
Ascended the throne as the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty in 1368 after leading a successful rebellion against the Yuan Dynasty. Established the Ming government and implemented major reforms in agriculture, trade, and military organization. Promoted Confucian values and centralized power. Known for initiating construction of the Great Wall of China in its current form and reviving the civil service examination system, which emphasized merit over birth. His reign marked the beginning of a significant period in Chinese history characterized by economic prosperity and cultural flourishing.
Continue ReadingHongwu
Founder of the Ming dynasty, ruled from 1368 until 1398. Established a centralized government with a focus on agricultural reform and anti-corruption measures. Instituted a series of important policies aimed at consolidating power and rebuilding the country after the decline of the Yuan dynasty. Promoted Confucian ideals and emphasized the importance of education, contributing to the revival of the Chinese cultural sphere. Expanded the military and conducted campaigns to solidify the dynasty's rule over China.
Continue ReadingJoan of Kent
Born into nobility, the individual became the mother of Richard II, who ascended the English throne as a child. The individual was the daughter of Edmund of Woodstock, 1st Earl of Kent, and Margaret Wake. Through marriage to Edward, the Black Prince, the individual connected the royal lines of England and France. The individual's life spanned significant historical contexts, contributing to the lineage that would shape future English governance.
Continue ReadingAntipope Benedict XIII
Served as antipope from 1394 to 1423 during the Western Schism, refusing to accept the legitimacy of the Roman popes. His pontificate was marked by attempts to consolidate power and maintain the influence of the Avignon papacy. Benedict XIII faced challenges from rival factions and was eventually confined to Avignon. He continued to claim authority until death in 1423, leaving a legacy of political and religious division within the Catholic Church.
Continue Reading