Year 1173: A Year of Change and Conflict
The year 1173 (MCLXXIII) marked a pivotal point in history, as significant events unfolded across various regions, shaping the course of empires and influencing cultural advancements.
Events by Place
Europe
January 5 – The death of Bolesław IV (the Curly), High Duke of Poland, after a lengthy 27-year reign, leads to the ascension of his half-brother Mieszko III (the Old). Meanwhile, Casimir II (the Just) becomes the Duke of Sandomierz in Lesser Poland.
With the demise of co-ruler Kol, King Canute I (Knut Eriksson) solidifies his rule over Sweden, backed by Earl Birger Brosa.
In the Almohad Caliphate, Abu Yaqub Yusuf attempts to repopulate the western Andalusian city of Beja, only for it to be swiftly abandoned, reflective of the rapid demographic decline of Muslims in the region.
England
During the spring, Henry the Young King departs to the French court, setting the stage for the Revolt of 1173–74 led by former Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine and her sons against ex-husband King Henry II.
October 17 – The Battle of Fornham sees rebel forces defeated while attempting to cross the River Lark. Flemish mercenaries are driven into nearby swamps by loyalists under Lord Richard de Luci.
Egypt
In the summer, Saladin leads a military campaign against Bedouin tribes in Oultrejordain, ensuring a secure passage between Egypt and Syria while also raiding at Kerak Castle.
A pro-Fatimid uprising in Upper Egypt, led by Kanz al-Dawla, is quelled by Saladin’s brother, Al-Adil.
China
The Qiandao era concludes, ushering in the Chunxi era during the reign of Emperor Xiao Zong of the Song dynasty.
South India
King Parakramabahu the Great of Sri Lanka secures a decisive victory against the Chola Empire as an ally to the Pandyas, capturing the Tondi and Pasi regions.
Events by Topic
Art and Leisure
August 8 – The construction of a campanile begins, which will later be known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Notably, algebraic chess notation is recorded for the first time.
Agriculture
King Béla III invites Cistercian and Premonstratensian monks to Hungary, who subsequently introduce advanced agricultural methods in the region (approximate date).
Religion
February 21 – Thomas Becket is canonized by Pope Alexander III, with his tomb in Canterbury Cathedral becoming a renowned pilgrimage site.
Peter Waldo, a French spiritual leader, embraces Christianity and establishes the Waldensians.
The Great Mosque of al-Nuri in Mosul is completed (approximate date).
Pedro Gudestéiz resigns from the archdiocese of Santiago de Compostela amid controversy.
Notable Births
- May 21 – Shinran, founder of Shin Buddhism (d. 1263)
- October 31 – Kujō Ninshi, Japanese empress (d. 1239)
- December 23 – Louis I, duke of Bavaria (d. 1231)
- Other notable births include Diya al-Din al-Maqdisi (d. 1245), Kamal al-Din Isfahani (d. 1237), and Llywelyn the Great (d. 1240).
Significant Deaths
- January 5 – Bolesław IV, duke of Poland
- February 10 – Muiredach Ua Cobthaig, Irish bishop
- August 9 – Najm ad-Din Ayyub, father of Saladin
- Among others, notable deaths include Uijong, Korean ruler of Goryeo, and Reginald Fitzurse, English nobleman.
The year 1173 was undeniably significant, weaving a tapestry of conflict and development that would influence future generations.