Historical Events from This Year 1348
Severe Earthquake Shakes Friuli Region
A powerful earthquake struck the South Alpine region of Friuli, Italy, generating widespread destruction and believed to have yielded seismic shocks felt even hundreds of kilometers away in Rome. With buildings destroyed and entire towns leveled, the quake left communities devastated and required extensive reconstruction efforts. This seismic event exemplified the vulnerability of medieval architecture to natural disasters and highlighted the geological instability of the region, prompting changes in building practices and emergency responses in future years.
Continue ReadingEstablishment of Prague University by Charles IV
Charles IV chartered Prague University to promote education and learning in Central Europe. The institution aimed to provide a center for higher education and contributed significantly to the cultural and intellectual growth of the region. Founded primarily for the study of liberal arts, law, and theology, it became a key player in the development of universities throughout Europe, fostering an environment for scholarly pursuits and attracting students and professors alike.
Continue ReadingEstablishment of the Order of the Garter
King Edward III officially announced the founding of the Order of the Garter, a chivalric order, on St. George's Day. This momentous occasion celebrated the virtues of chivalry and knightly values, particularly honoring St. George, the patron saint of England. The event emphasized loyalty, valor, and the unification of noble knights under a noble cause. The order became one of the most prestigious titles in England, reflecting the growing importance of knighthood in medieval society.
Continue ReadingPope Clement VI Defends Jews from Blame
Pope Clement VI issued a papal bull aiming to protect Jewish communities who were unjustly accused of causing the Black Death through poisoning wells. Amidst growing anti-Semitic sentiment in Europe, the Pope condemned these false accusations and called for compassion and understanding towards the Jewish population. This papal pronouncement was a response to the widespread violence, including massacres and expulsions, directed at Jews during the plague years, emphasizing the need for peace and coexistence.
Continue ReadingUnion of Valencia Attacks Jews of Murviedro
An anti-royalist faction in Valencia launched an assault on the Jewish community in Murviedro, claiming they were serfs of the King of Valencia. Fueled by rising tensions over royal authority, approximately 300 Jews faced violence instigated by accusations of loyalty to the monarchy, sparking a significant incident in the region's social turmoil.
Continue ReadingBorn in 1348
Andronikos IV Palaiologos
Ruled as Byzantine Emperor from 1376 to 1379, during a tumultuous period marked by civil strife. Initially co-emperored with his father, John VI Kantakouzenos, he clashed with the Byzantine nobility and faced external threats from the Ottoman Turks. His reign was brief, ending with his ousting by his father, who regained control. Following his exile, he lived in obscurity until his death. His rule served as a reflection of the declining power of the Byzantine Empire.
Continue ReadingJan of Jenštejn
Served as Archbishop of Prague from 1379 to 1397. Played a significant role in the ecclesiastical and political landscape of Bohemia during the late 14th century. Engaged in conflicts with Czech nobility and participated in various religious and political affairs. Contributed to improving the administration of the Archdiocese of Prague and was involved in the establishment of the Prague University.
Continue ReadingAndronikos IV
Became Byzantine emperor in 1376 after launching a coup against his father, John V Palaiologos. His reign was marked by political instability and internal strife, leading to a brief co-regency with his father. Lost power to his father, who was reinstated as emperor in 1379. Attempted to regain power through military means but was ultimately defeated. Captured and imprisoned, death occurred in 1385.
Continue ReadingCasimir III
Duke of Pomerania served during the 14th century and played a significant role in the region's governance. Ascended to power in the early 1340s, administering the territories with a focus on strengthening the duchy. Active in regional politics, built alliances with neighboring states, and participated in various conflicts. Alongside military leadership, promoted economic development and trade, contributing to Pomerania's integration within the Hanseatic League. The duchy experienced consolidation under his rule, leading to greater stability in the region. His reign concluded with his death in 1372.
Continue ReadingPeople Who Died in 1348
Narymunt
Ruled as Prince of Pinsk during the early 14th century. Engaged in military and political matters concerning the region. Relations maintained with neighboring principalities, contributing to the political landscape of Eastern Europe. Death occurred in 1348, marking the end of his rule.
Continue ReadingAmbrogio Lorenzetti
Active during the 14th century, this Sienese painter contributed significantly to the development of early Italian Renaissance art. The artist created works that included detailed frescoes and panel paintings that depicted scenes rich in narrative and symbolism. The most notable works include 'Allegory of Good Government' and 'Allegory of Bad Government', which illustrated the effects of governance on the state and its citizens. These pieces are characterized by their innovative use of perspective and attention to the human condition, reflecting the social and political atmosphere of the time.
Continue ReadingJuan Manuel
Born into Spanish nobility in 1282, a significant figure in medieval literature and politics. Authored 'El Conde Lucanor', a collection of tales offering moral lessons, influencing both Spanish and European literary traditions. Served as the Prince of Villena and held various political roles within the Kingdom of Castile, engaging in diplomatic negotiations and power struggles of the time. Contributed to the cultural and literary landscape of medieval Spain through both governance and literature.
Continue ReadingLaurence Hastings
Born in 1319, a prominent noble in medieval England, held the title of 1st Earl of Pembroke. Served as a key military leader during the conflicts surrounding the Scottish wars and the Hundred Years' War. Actively participated in various parliamentary proceedings and was influential in the governance of the realm. His military endeavors included significant engagements that contributed to his recognition as a formidable lord. Passed away in 1348.
Continue ReadingJohn de Stratford
Served as the Archbishop of Canterbury from 1333 until death in 1348. Played a significant role in the English church and politics during the early 14th century. Contributed to the management of ecclesiastical affairs and supported Edward III during his reign. Involved in diplomatic missions and negotiations with the Pope, addressing various issues faced by the church in England.
Continue ReadingEmperor Hanazono
Ascended to the throne in 1336, leading during the Nanboku-chō period, a time of dual emperors and civil conflict in Japan. Attempted to navigate the political complexities of the era while maintaining the imperial lineage. His reign faced challenges from rival factions, including Ashikaga Takauji. Abdicated in 1348, becoming a retired emperor and continuing to exert some influence until death. The period was marked by strife between the Northern and Southern courts as various clans vied for power.
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