1120s facts for kids
The 1120s were a busy time in history, filled with important events across Europe and Asia. This decade saw big changes in how the church and rulers worked together, new ideas in philosophy, and the rise of famous knightly orders.
Important Events in Europe
This decade brought several key moments for the church and powerful leaders in Europe.
The Church and Its Rules
One major issue was the Investiture Controversy. This was a long-standing disagreement about who had the right to choose and appoint church leaders like bishops. Was it the Pope or the kings and emperors?
Solving the Investiture Problem
In 1122, the problem was finally solved with the Concordat of Worms. This agreement said that church leaders would be chosen by the church. However, emperors could still be present and have some say in the process. This was a big step in defining the power of the church and the state.
New Rules for Priests
In 1123, the First Council of the Lateran happened. This was a major meeting of church leaders. They agreed to the Concordat of Worms. They also made it clear that priests must remain celibate, meaning they should not marry.
A New Pope Is Chosen
In 1124, a new leader for the Catholic Church was chosen. Honorius II was elected as the new Pope.
New Ideas and Famous Knights
The 1120s also saw important developments in thinking and the creation of a famous group of knights.
Peter Abelard's Work
Peter Abelard was a very smart thinker and teacher during this time. In 1121, his ideas were not liked by the Council of Soissons. But in 1122, he wrote an important book called Sic et Non. This book explored different viewpoints on religious questions.
The Rise of the Knights Templar
In 1128, a very important meeting called the Council of Troyes took place. At this council, a new group of knights was officially recognized. These were the Knights Templar. They were a military order of monks who protected pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land.
Important Marriages
Marriages between powerful families were very important for politics in the Middle Ages.
Matilda Marries Geoffrey
In 1128, a significant marriage happened. Geoffrey of Anjou married Empress Matilda. Matilda was the daughter of Henry I of England, a powerful king. This marriage was important for the future of the English throne.
Changes in Japan
Far away in Japan, there were also big changes in leadership during this decade.
Emperors of Japan
In 1123, the reign of Emperor Toba came to an end. He had been the emperor of Japan. After him, Emperor Sutoku became the new emperor.
Emperor Toba's Cloistered Rule
Even after stepping down as emperor, Emperor Toba remained very influential. In 1129, he began his cloistered rule. This meant he retired to a monastery but still held great power behind the scenes, guiding the government and his successor.
Art and Culture
Art continued to develop in Europe during this time.
A Famous Sculptor
During the 1120s, a famous Romanesque sculptor named Gislebertus was active. He created amazing sculptures, especially at the church in Autun, in Burgundy, France. His work is known for its dramatic and expressive style.
