What Happened This Year 1342

Born in 1342

Philip II

Duke of Burgundy, notable statesman
Born
January 17th, 1342 683 years ago
Died
February 3rd, 1618 407 years ago — 276 years old

Born in 1342, Philip II became the Duke of Burgundy and played a significant role in the politics of France and the Low Countries during the late 14th century. His reign was marked by territorial expansion and the consolidation of power in Burgundy. Philip II sought to enhance the Burgundian influence both economically and politically by forming strategic alliances, including marriages into prominent royal families. He was involved in several conflicts during the Hundred Years' War and focused on strengthening Burgundy's autonomy from the French crown. His contributions helped establish the Burgundian state as a notable entity in medieval Europe, with a focus on developing trade, culture, and governance.

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Catherine of Bohemia

Duchess of Austria
Born
August 19th, 1342 682 years ago
Died
1395 630 years ago — 53 years old

Born in 1342, a Bohemian noblewoman who married Rudolf IV, the Duke of Austria. This marriage solidified ties between Bohemia and Austria, influencing regional politics. Played a significant role in the development of the Habsburg dynasty. Engaged in various cultural and political activities that shaped the era's nobility.

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Jeong Dojeon

Korean Prime Minister and scholar
Born
1342 683 years ago
Died
October 6th, 1398 626 years ago — 56 years old

Served as a prominent statesman during the early Joseon Dynasty. Played a pivotal role in the establishment of the dynasty following the overthrow of the Goryeo dynasty. Instrumental in drafting foundational policies and structures that shaped the new government. Advocated for Confucianism as the guiding philosophy of the state. Contributed to the compilation of various legal texts and codes to enhance governance. His tenure ended tragically with a power struggle that led to his assassination.

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Humphrey de Bohun

7th Earl of Hereford and military leader
Born
1342 683 years ago
Died
January 16th, 1373 652 years ago — 31 years old

Served as the 7th Earl of Hereford and held the title of 4th Earl of Northampton. Participated in military campaigns including the Hundred Years' War. Played a significant role in the English civil strife during the reign of Edward III. Appointed as the Constable of England and was integral to England's nobility in the 14th century.

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Antipope Clement VII

Antipope during the Western Schism
Born
1342 683 years ago
Died
September 16th, 1394 630 years ago — 52 years old

Served as antipope from 1378 to 1394 during the Western Schism, which divided the Catholic Church. Positioned in Avignon, Clement VII opposed the legitimate pope, Urban VI, leading to a significant religious and political conflict in Europe. His reign was marked by the continuation of the Avignon Papacy and the complexities of maintaining allegiance among various Christian kingdoms. The schism and conflicting papacies significantly influenced the Church's authority and political dynamics of the time. His tenure ended with his death in 1394.

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