1159 facts for kids
| Millennium: | 2nd millennium |
|---|---|
| Centuries: | 11th century – 12th century – 13th century |
| Decades: | 1120s 1130s 1140s – 1150s – 1160s 1170s 1180s |
| Years: | 1156 1157 1158 – 1159 – 1160 1161 1162 |
The year 1159 was a time of important changes and events across the world. From new rules for choosing leaders in Europe to conflicts and changes in power in Asia and Africa, this year saw many moments that shaped history.
Contents
Key Events of 1159
Choosing a New Pope
In 1159, a very important change happened in the Catholic Church. This church is a major Christian group led by the Pope. Before this year, the Pope was chosen by a vote from the church's clergy (religious leaders) and its members.
However, in 1159, a new rule was made. From then on, only special church leaders called Cardinals would have the right to elect the Pope. This change made the process of choosing the Pope more organized and powerful for the Cardinals.
This new rule came after the death of Pope Adrian IV on September 1, 1159. His death meant a new Pope needed to be chosen, and this was the perfect time to put the new election system into place.
The Heiji Rebellion in Japan
Far away in Japan, the year 1159 also saw a short but fierce conflict known as the Heiji Rebellion. This was a power struggle between two powerful families, the Minamoto clan and the Taira clan. They were fighting for control over the Japanese government.
The rebellion happened in the capital city of Kyoto. It was a quick and violent event that showed how much tension there was between these noble families. In the end, the Taira clan won, which greatly increased their power in Japan for many years.
Tunis Joins the Almohad Caliphate
In North Africa, the city of Tunis was taken over by the Almohad caliphs in 1159. A caliphate is a type of Islamic state led by a caliph, who is seen as a successor to the Islamic prophet Muhammad.
The Almohads were a powerful group that had built a large empire across North Africa and parts of Spain. When they conquered Tunis, it meant the city became part of their growing empire. This changed who ruled Tunis and how it was governed.
Marie Becomes Countess of Boulogne
In Europe, a noblewoman named Marie of Boulogne became the Countess of Boulogne in 1159. A Countess is a female ruler of a county, which is a region of land. Boulogne was an important county in what is now northern France.
Marie inherited this title and the responsibility of ruling the county. This was a significant event for her and for the people of Boulogne, as it meant a new leader was in charge of their region.
Deaths
- September 1: Pope Adrian IV died. He was the only English Pope in history. His death led to the new rules for electing future Popes.
