What Happened This Year 1378

Historical Events from This Year 1378

Religion & Philosophy

Papal Election of Clement VII and Schism Begins

September 20th, 1378 646 years ago

Cardinal Robert of Geneva was elected Pope Clement VII, marking the beginning of the Western Schism. This election was held in Rome amid great social and political upheaval in the church, as rival factions vied for control over the papacy. The election led to a significant split within Christianity, with multiple claimants to the papacy emerging, each supported by different political entities across Europe. Clement VII's election represented a climax of tensions that had been brewing for decades, exacerbated by the Avignon Papacy and the dissatisfaction with the papal authority.

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Born in 1378 (View all 8)

Louis III

Elector Palatine during the 14th century
Born
January 23rd, 1378 647 years ago
Died
March 4th, 1710 315 years ago — 332 years old

Born in 1378, served as the Elector Palatine and played a significant role in regional politics during his reign. Oversaw the administration of the Palatinate and participated in various conflicts, including engagements with rival factions and neighboring territories. His leadership contributed to the stability of the region during a tumultuous period in European history.

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Zhu Quan

Chinese military commander and playwright
Born
May 27th, 1378 646 years ago
Died
October 12th, 1448 576 years ago — 70 years old

Born in 1378, a military commander during the early Ming dynasty, contributed to military strategies and governance. Worked as a historian, documenting historical events and military campaigns. As a playwright, authored several influential plays that reflected the socio-political landscape of the time. His works provided insight into the culture and politics of the early Ming period. Served as a prominent figure in both military and cultural domains until death in 1448.

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Hongxi Emperor

Chinese Emperor and reform advocate
Born
August 16th, 1378 646 years ago
Died
1425 600 years ago — 47 years old

Ruled as the Emperor of China from 1402 to 1424 during the Ming Dynasty. Implemented significant administrative reforms aimed at consolidating power and reducing corruption. His reign focused on restoring the authority of the imperial court and diminishing the influence of powerful eunuchs within the government. As a strong proponent of Confucian principles, promoted scholarship and the arts.

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Pope Callixtus III

Pope and ecclesiastical leader
Born
December 31st, 1378 646 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1458 566 years ago — 79 years old

Elected as pope in 1455, presided over the Catholic Church during a time of significant religious and political challenges. Attempted to rally European powers against the Ottoman Empire, particularly in response to the fall of Constantinople. Promoted the canonization of St. Bernardin of Siena and initiated various ecclesiastical reforms. Worked to restore the prestige of the papacy and the church after a period of turmoil.

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Vittorino da Feltre

Italian humanist and educator
Born
1378 647 years ago
Died
February 2nd, 1446 579 years ago — 68 years old

An influential humanist and educator, contributed to the Renaissance educational reforms in Italy. Founded the school called the 'Learning House' in Mantua, which emphasized classical studies and humanist principles. Taught subjects such as grammar, rhetoric, and philosophy, attracting notable students. Advocated for the moral and intellectual development of young people, promoting a comprehensive curriculum that combined physical exercise with academic pursuits.

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Robert Campin

Flemish painter, early Netherlandish art
Born
1378 647 years ago
Died
April 26th, 1444 580 years ago — 66 years old

Active during the early 15th century, the painter significantly contributed to the development of early Netherlandish painting. Workshop was located in Tournai, which became a center for innovative artistic techniques. Renowned for realism and meticulous attention to detail. Major work includes the 'Merode Altarpiece,' a triptych that exemplifies the use of symbolism and perspective. Various religious themes were central to the artistic output.

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People Who Died in 1378

Joanna of Bourbon

French noblewoman and Queen of France
Born
February 3rd, 1338 687 years ago
Died
February 6th, 1378 647 years ago — 40 years old

Born into the House of Bourbon, served as Queen of France through marriage to King Philip VI. Engaged in court politics during the early years of the Hundred Years' War. Known for her staunch support of her husband's reign and her role in the royal family dynamics. The death occurred in 1378, marking the end of her influence in the French court.

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Pope Gregory XI

Roman Catholic Pope, returned papacy to Rome
Born
1336 689 years ago
Died
March 27th, 1378 646 years ago — 42 years old

Elected as Pope in 1370, this religious leader served during a period of significant upheaval in the Catholic Church, including the Avignon Papacy. After several years in France, returned the papacy to Rome in 1377, ending nearly 70 years of papal residence in Avignon. This move marked a pivotal moment in church history. The return aimed to restore the authority of the papacy within Italy and Europe, encouraging other clergy to relocate as well. The reign faced challenges including the ongoing Great Schism, which would arise shortly after the leader's death.

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Galeazzo II Visconti

Lord of Milan with power consolidation
Died
August 4th, 1378 646 years ago — None years old

Served as the Duke of Milan, holding significant power during the 14th century. Expanded territories and strengthened control over Milan, consolidating authority through military and political means. Established alliances to fortify governance, impacting the region's stability. His reign marked a period of growth for the Visconti family within the Italian peninsula.

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Andrew Stratford

English verderer and landowner
Died
November 30th, 1378 646 years ago — None years old

Served as a verderer, a position responsible for the management of forests, particularly in areas such as the New Forest. Engaged in landowning, which involved maintaining and overseeing agricultural lands and resources. Contributed to the local governance and management of natural resources during the medieval period. Died in 1378, leaving a legacy in land stewardship.

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