Born in 1383
Anne of Gloucester
Born into English nobility, Anne of Gloucester was the daughter of Thomas of Woodstock, the Duke of Gloucester, and Eleanor de Bohun. Through her marriage to Richard of York, she became connected to the powerful Yorkist faction. Anne's life unfolded during a tumultuous period in English history marked by the conflicts of the Wars of the Roses. After the death of her husband, she played a role in the political landscape of the time. Anne's lineage and marriage positioned her within the shifting allegiances of noble families in England, which had lasting effects on the power dynamics of the era.
Continue ReadingFelix V
Antipope Felix V served during a significant period of the Catholic Church's history. Elected in 1439 during the Council of Basel, his reign was marked by a dispute over papal authority and legitimacy. He sought to unify Christendom and gained support from various factions discontented with the papacy of Eugenius IV. His antipope status lasted until 1449, when he abdicated in favor of Eugenius IV, later being accepted back into the Church. Felix V's election and tenure highlight the complexities of the papal schism and the political maneuvering of the time.
Continue ReadingNiccolò III d'Este
Served as the Marquis of Ferrara from 1393 until 1441. Played a significant role in the politics of Renaissance Italy. Oversaw developments in culture and architecture in Ferrara. Led military campaigns to defend territory against various threats. Strengthened the Este family's influence in the region through strategic alliances and patronage of the arts.
Continue ReadingPope Eugene IV
Served as Pope from 1431 to 1447. Focused on Church reform and addressing issues of the time such as the schism in the Catholic Church. Convened the Council of Florence, which aimed to unify Eastern and Western Christianity. Sought to improve relations with the Orthodox Church and was involved in various diplomatic missions throughout Europe. Contributed to the development of the Church's internal policies and governance.
Continue ReadingAmadeus VIII
Born in 1400, held the title of Duke of Savoy and became Antipope as Felix V during the Western Schism. His reign as Duke began in 1416 and expanded territorial influence. He resigned from the papacy in 1449 and returned to the Dukedom, focusing on governance and political stability until his death in 1451.
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