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Millennium: 2nd millennium
Centuries: 11th century12th century13th century
Decades: 1110s  1120s  1130s  – 1140s –  1150s  1160s  1170s
Years: 1141 1142 114311441145 1146 1147

The year 1144 was a time of important changes and events across Europe and the Middle East. It saw new leaders, big battles, and the start of new towns and religious places. This year is especially remembered for a major event in the Crusades, which was a series of religious wars.

Key Events of 1144

Changes in Leadership

  • King Louis VII of France made peace with Pope Celestine II. This meant the King received the Pope's blessing, which was a very important sign of approval back then.
  • On March 12, a new leader for the Catholic Church was chosen. Pope Lucius II became the 166th Pope, taking over after Pope Celestine II.

Important Battles and Control

  • On December 24, a major battle took place in the Middle East. The County of Edessa, which was a Christian state set up during the Crusades, was defeated by a powerful Muslim leader named Zengi. This event is known as the Siege of Edessa and was a big turning point in the Crusades.
  • The region of Normandy in France came under the control of Geoffrey of Anjou. This was important because it brought a large area of France under the rule of the Angevin family, who would later become very powerful.
  • In the Byzantine Empire, Emperor Manuel I Comnenus showed his power. He made Raymond, who was the Prince of Antioch, agree to be influenced by the Byzantine Empire. This helped the Empire keep control over important areas.

New Beginnings

  • The city of Montauban in France was founded. This marked the start of a new settlement that would grow over time.
  • In Rome, Giordano Pierleoni began a new political movement. He started the revolutionary Commune of Rome, which was an attempt by the citizens to govern themselves, away from the traditional power of the Pope and nobles.
  • A new religious building, a Priory, was started in Lesmahagow. It was built by Benedictine monks, who were members of a religious order.

People Born in 1144

  • Bohemund III of Antioch was born this year. He would later become a powerful Prince of Antioch, following in his father's footsteps. He lived until 1201.

People Who Died in 1144

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