What Happened This Year 1374

Historical Events from This Year 1374

Health & Medicine

Sudden Outbreak of St. John's Dance in Aachen

June 24th, 1374 650 years ago

A sudden outbreak of uncontrollable dancing, known as St. John's Dance, struck the streets of Aachen, Germany, causing numerous citizens to exhibit symptoms of hallucinations, jumping, and twitching. This bizarre phenomenon overwhelmed the area, resulting in many participants collapsing from extreme exhaustion. Observers were puzzled by the mass hysteria, which spread rapidly among the population, sparking curiosity and fear within the community.

Continue Reading

Born in 1374

Jadwiga

Queen of Poland and Saint
Born
1374 651 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1399 625 years ago — 25 years old

Ascended to the throne of Poland in 1384, ruling as a powerful monarch. Introduced significant legal and educational reforms in the kingdom. Played a crucial role in the union between Poland and Lithuania, which shaped the future of Eastern Europe. Renowned for promoting Christianity and establishing the University of Kraków. Recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1997.

Continue Reading

Yuri IV

Russian grand prince and ruler
Born
1374 651 years ago
Died
June 5th, 1434 590 years ago — 60 years old

Ruled as the Grand Prince of Vladimir and Moscow during the early 15th century. Seized control of Moscow in 1425, initiating a power struggle with other noble factions. Engaged in numerous military campaigns to defend Russian lands against external threats, particularly the Mongol Golden Horde. Involved in the dynastic politics of the time, struggling against rivals and securing the authority of the princely family. His reign was notable for the consolidation of power in the region.

Continue Reading

People Who Died in 1374

Petrarch

Italian poet and scholar, Laura's muse
Born
July 20th, 1304 720 years ago
Died
July 19th, 1374 650 years ago — 69 years old

Born in 1304, this poet and scholar became a central figure in Renaissance humanism. He is often referred to as the 'father of Humanism' due to his influential writings which revived interest in classical antiquity. His sonnets, especially those dedicated to Laura, are notable for their exploration of love and beauty. His work laid the groundwork for the development of poetry in the Italian language and inspired many subsequent writers, including Shakespeare. Additionally, he contributed to the study of Latin and classical literature, and he was an early advocate for the notion of poetry as a reflection of personal experience.

Continue Reading

Magnus Eriksson

King of Sweden and Norway
Born
1316 709 years ago
Died
December 1st, 1374 650 years ago — 58 years old

Ruled as king of Sweden from 1319 to 1364 and as king of Norway from 1332 to 1355. Initiated a series of laws known as the Magnus Eriksson Law Code, which laid the foundation for Swedish law. His reign experienced challenges, including economic difficulties and conflicts with nobles. Faced opposition from the Swedish nobility and experienced a decline in royal power towards the end of his reign.

Continue Reading

Gongmin of Goryeo

Korean ruler of Goryeo Dynasty
Born
May 23rd, 1330 694 years ago
Died
1374 651 years ago — 44 years old

Ruled as king of Goryeo from 1351 to 1374. Focused on strengthening the central authority and reducing the power of the aristocracy. Implemented various reforms in administration and military. Notable for efforts to resist the Mongol invasions and reigniting the cultural identity of Goryeo. Established the foundation for the later Joseon Dynasty by revising laws and promoting Confucianism.

Continue Reading

Emperor Go-Kōgon

Japanese Emperor during the Northern Court
Born
March 23rd, 1338 686 years ago
Died
1374 651 years ago — 36 years old

Born in 1338, ascended the throne in 1352 as the 4th Emperor of the Northern Court during the period of the Nanboku-chō (Northern and Southern Courts). His reign was marked by the ongoing dynastic struggle between the Northern Court, which he represented, and the Southern Court. His rule saw attempts to stabilize the Northern Court amid political unrest and conflict. After his abdication in 1371, lived in retirement until his death in 1394, with limited impact on the prolonged civil conflict between the two factions. His legacy continued through the line of emperors that followed.

Continue Reading