1200s facts for kids
| Millennium: | 2nd millennium |
| Centuries: | 12th century – 13th century – 14th century |
| Decades: | 1170s 1180s 1190s – 1200s – 1210s 1220s 1230s |
| Years: | 1200 1201 1202 1203 1204 1205 1206 1207 1208 1209 |
| Categories: | Births – Deaths – Architecture Establishments – Disestablishments |
Contents
The 1200s: A Time of Big Changes
The early 1200s were a period of important events across Europe. New universities were starting, big wars were happening, and new religious groups were forming. This era shaped how countries and societies developed for many years to come.
Key Events of the Early 1200s
This section looks at some of the most important things that happened during this exciting time. From new schools to major conflicts, the world was changing fast.
The University of Paris Begins
In 1200, the University of Paris officially received its charter. This was a special document from Philip II of France, the king at the time. A charter is like a permission slip that gives a school the right to teach and grant degrees. This made the University of Paris one of the most important places for learning in Europe. Students came from all over to study subjects like theology, law, and medicine.
The Fourth Crusade's Unexpected Journey
The Fourth Crusade took place between 1202 and 1204. Crusades were a series of religious wars, usually fought by European Christians to take back holy lands. However, the Fourth Crusade took a very different path. Instead of going to the Middle East, the crusaders ended up attacking Constantinople. Constantinople was a major Christian city and the capital of the Byzantine Empire. This unexpected attack caused a lot of trouble and changed the power balance in the region.
The Battle of Adrianople
On April 14, 1205, a big fight called the Battle of Adrianople (1205) happened. This battle was fought between the Bulgars and the Latins. The Bulgars were people from the Bulgarian Empire, and the Latins were the crusaders who had recently taken over Constantinople. The Bulgars won this battle, which was a big defeat for the Latin Empire.
The Albigensian Crusade
From 1209 to 1218, a conflict known as the Albigensian Crusade took place. This was a military campaign against a group of people called the Cathars. The Cathars had different religious beliefs from the main Christian church in Europe. This crusade was a long and difficult war fought in southern France.
The Founding of the Franciscans
Also in 1209, a very important religious group called the Franciscans was founded. They were started by Francis of Assisi. The Franciscans are a group of friars, which are like monks who live among people rather than in a monastery. They focused on living simply, helping the poor, and spreading peace. Their work had a big impact on Christianity and society.
