Year 1046: A Year of Turmoil and Transformation
Year 1046 (MXLVI) was a common year that commenced on a Wednesday in the Julian calendar. This year was marked by significant events across various regions, impacting politics, religion, and exploration.
Key Events by Region
Europe
In the autumn of 1046, King Henry III, known as “the Black,” journeyed to Italy to install Guido da Velate as the archbishop of Milan. His efforts extended to other loyal candidates being appointed in sees such as Ravenna, Verona, and Modena.
A significant upheaval occurred with the Vata pagan uprising in the Kingdom of Hungary. Peter, King of Hungary, also known as “the Venetian,” was overthrown after a brief two-year reign and was possibly executed. Tragically, Bishops Gerard of Csanád and Bystrík met a gruesome fate, being stoned to death in Budapest.
Britain
In Britain, Ealdred, the bishop of Worcester, led an unsuccessful punitive expedition against the Welsh leaders, including Gruffydd ap Rhydderch, Rhys ap Rhydderch, and Gruffydd ap Llywelyn.
Asia
In China, Bao Zheng, a government officer during the reign of Emperor Renzong of Song, wrote a crucial memorial addressing governmental corruption, warning of potential bankruptcy in the iron industry. His message was heeded, leading to unprecedented iron production by the year 1078.
Also, Munjong was crowned as the 11th king of Goryeo, marking an important moment in Korean history.
Notable Events in Exploration and Religion
Exploration
On March 5, Nasir Khusraw embarked on a remarkable seven-year journey throughout the Middle East, which he documented in his work, the Safarnāmé.
Religion
During the summer, the ex-Pope Benedict IX abandoned his efforts to reclaim the papal throne in Rome, allowing Sylvester III to reassert his claim. Later, on December 20, Pope Gregory VI faced accusations of simony during the Council of Sutri and ultimately resigned from his position. By December 25, Pope Clement II succeeded Gregory VI, crowning Henry III as Holy Roman Emperor.
In a tragic incident, Hildesheim Cathedral in Germany was largely destroyed by fire, marking a significant loss for the region.
Births and Deaths
Births
Noteworthy births in 1046 include:
- Constance of Burgundy, queen consort of Castile and León (d. 1093)
- Afridun I, ruler of Shirvan (d. 1120)
- Bernard of Thiron, founder of the Tironensian Order (d. 1117)
- Ingegerd, queen of Denmark and Sweden (approximate date)
- Leo of Ostia, Italian cardinal (d. 1115)
- Masud Sa’d Salman, Persian poet (d. 1121)
- Matilda, margravine of Tuscany (approximate date)
Deaths
The year also saw the passing of notable figures:
- Eckard II, Margrave of Meissen (b. 985)
- Fujiwara no Sanesuke, Japanese nobleman (b. 957)
- Lyfing of Winchester, English abbot and bishop
- Jeongjong II, king of Goryeo (b. 1018)
- Elijah, bishop of Beth Nuhadra (b. 975)
- Gerard of Csanád, Hungarian bishop, killed (September 24)
- Bystrík, Hungarian bishop, killed (September 27)
- Others include Art Uallach Ua Ruairc, Eido II, and William Iron Arm.
The year 1046 stands out as a period of profound change and development across various realms of life, shaping the course of history in Europe and beyond.