Two large armies fought each other in a grand battle in 13th-century Flanders. The outcome had major consequences for France, England and the Holy Roman Empire.
Read moreThe Battle of Bouvines & The End of the Angevin Empire
Thought COVID was bad? People living through 536 experienced the worst time ever to be alive: volcanic eruptions, sudden climate change, and the first plague.
Read moreWorst Year Ever: 536 CE – “When The Sun Lost Its Wonted Light”
The 'bellatores', or "those who fight", were the second estate of medieval society. Through sheer military power, they imposed their will on the wider population.
Read moreThe Three Estates (2): The ‘Bellatores’ – Might Makes Right
For centuries, the Khitans ruled Northern China as the Liao dynasty. But their oppression and rape of Manchurian women sired a rebellion that would come to haunt them.
Read moreWhores Aren’t Free – The Downfall of the Liao Dynasty
European medieval society knew three estates. The clergy, or the 'oratores', were the first. Its members focused on spiritual matters, but could be found advising worldly lords as well.
Read moreThe Three Estates (1): The ‘Oratores’ – Faith, Law & Order
Baibars killed two of his sovereigns and defeated Mongols as well as Crusaders. Eventually, he became the Sultan of Egypt. Not bad for someone who started his career as a slave.
Read moreFrom Slave to Sultan: Bloody Baibars Did It!
