Born in 1360
Amadeus VII
Born in the House of Savoy, held the title of Count of Savoy from 1383 until 1391. Engaged in political and military affairs, strengthening the power of the Savoyard dynasty. Successfully navigated the complex feudal politics of the time, expanding territorial control. Played a significant role in establishing alliances through marriage and diplomacy, notably with the House of Savoie.
Continue ReadingPhilippa of Lancaster
A Portuguese queen, played a significant role in the early 15th century as the spouse of King Afonso V of Portugal. Marrying Afonso V in 1420, contributed to strengthening the alliance between England and Portugal during the Hundred Years' War. Her marriage symbolized the bond between the two nations, reflecting political strategies of the time. Managed royal affairs during her husband's military campaigns, especially when he focused on overseas exploration and territorial expansion. Died in 1415, leaving a legacy intertwined with the political dynamics of the Iberian Peninsula and beyond.
Continue ReadingYongle Emperor of China
Ruled from 1402 to 1424 and was the third emperor of the Ming Dynasty. Launched the Yongle Encyclopedia, one of the largest works of its kind in history. Oversaw the construction of the Forbidden City in Beijing, which became the imperial palace. Expanded maritime exploration, commissioning voyages led by Zheng He to establish trade and diplomatic relations. Revamped the military and administrative structures of the empire, contributing to a period of stability and consolidation.
Continue ReadingNuno Álvares Pereira
Served as a prominent general during the Portuguese crisis of 1383-1385, leading forces to victory against Castilian forces at the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385. Played a crucial role in establishing Portuguese independence. His military strategies and leadership contributed to the consolidation of the kingdom during a turbulent period. He also became a revered figure in Portuguese history, remembered for skillful tactics and dedication to the crown.
Continue ReadingFrancesco Zabarella
Born in 1360 in Italy, contributed significantly to ecclesiastical jurisprudence. Served as a cardinal and was recognized for his scholarly work on theological matters. Held high positions within the Church, advocating for reform and adherence to canon law during a time of ecclesiastical turmoil. Played a key role in the Council of Pisa, which aimed to resolve the Western Schism, a period marked by multiple claimants to the papacy. His writings influenced the development of church law and doctrine in the late medieval period.
Continue ReadingBayezid I
Sultan of the Ottoman Empire from 1389 to 1402, played a crucial role in expanding the empire's territory. His reign saw significant military campaigns against the Byzantine Empire and European powers. Under leadership, the Ottomans defeated the Knights of St. John at the Battle of Nicopolis in 1396, establishing Ottoman dominance in the Balkans. Bayezid also faced challenges from the Mongol leader Timur, culminating in the catastrophic Battle of Ankara in 1402, where he suffered defeat and was captured. This event significantly affected the Ottoman Empire's trajectory in the following years.
Continue ReadingEleanor de Bohun
Eleanor de Bohun served as an English noble during the late 14th century. Born into a prominent family, she was the daughter of the 4th Earl of Hereford. Eleanor became the wife of the Duke of Gloucester, a key figure in the English court. The marriage aligned powerful families during a tumultuous period in English history. After the death of her husband, Eleanor's claims to her family's estates were central to ongoing disputes among the nobility. She played a significant role in lineage and inheritance matters which influenced the distribution of noble land holdings in England. Eleanor's life reflects the complexities of nobility and power dynamics of medieval England.
Continue ReadingYongle
Ruled as the third emperor of the Ming dynasty from 1402 to 1424. Initiated major projects including the construction of the Forbidden City in Beijing and the commissioning of the famous maritime expeditions led by Zheng He. Promoted Confucianism and advanced the arts and culture. Expanded the empire significantly, consolidating power and enhancing the central government. His reign marked a period of territorial expansion and strengthened the Ming navy.
Continue ReadingUlrich von Jungingen
Served as the Grand Master of the Teutonic Knights from 1407 until death in 1410. Led the order during the Battle of Grunwald, a significant conflict in the Polish–Lithuanian–Teutonic War. Oversaw military campaigns and administration of the Knights' territories. Played a crucial role in the activities and expansion of the order in Eastern Europe during the 15th century.
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