1218 facts for kids

The year 1218 was a time of important events around the world. From major battles in Egypt to new universities in Spain and political changes in Japan, this year saw many developments.

Major Events of 1218

The Fifth Crusade and the Siege of Damietta

In 1218, a big event happened in Egypt. Knights from Europe, known as Crusaders, began a major attack on a city called Damietta. This was part of the Fifth Crusade, a series of religious wars that took place over many centuries.

Why Damietta Was Important

Damietta was a very important port city located on the Nile River in Egypt. Controlling Damietta meant controlling access to Egypt, which was a rich and powerful land at the time. The Crusaders hoped that by capturing Damietta, they could force the Muslim rulers of Egypt to give back control of Jerusalem, a holy city.

The Siege Begins

The Crusaders arrived by sea and started to attack Damietta. A "siege" means they surrounded the city and tried to cut off its supplies, hoping to force the people inside to surrender. This was a long and difficult fight for both sides.

The Livonian Brothers of the Sword in Estonia

Far to the north, another group of knights was busy. The Livonian Brothers of the Sword were a military order, like a group of warrior monks. In 1218, they started to conquer the land known today as Estonia.

Spreading Influence in the North

These knights were focused on expanding their territory and spreading Christianity in the Baltic region. They often fought against local tribes who had different beliefs. Their actions in 1218 marked a significant step in their efforts to control more land in what is now Estonia and Latvia.

Political Changes in Japan

In Japan, a powerful political figure made a big move. Minamoto no Sanetomo became the Minister of the Right, also known as udaijin. This was a very high-ranking position in the Japanese government during the Kamakura period.

The Role of the Minister of the Right

The Minister of the Right was one of the most important officials working for the Emperor. This role involved helping to manage the country's affairs, including laws and administration. Sanetomo was also the third shogun of the Kamakura Shogunate, which was the military government that ruled Japan at the time. His appointment showed his growing power and influence.

A New University in Spain

Education also saw an important development in 1218. King Alfonso IX of León, a ruler in what is now Spain, founded a university in the city of Salamanca.

The Birth of a Famous University

This new university would later become the famous University of Salamanca, one of the oldest and most respected universities in Europe. Founding a university was a big deal because it meant creating a place where people could study many different subjects, like law, medicine, and philosophy. It helped to spread knowledge and learning throughout the kingdom and beyond.

Images for kids

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  Crusaders attack the tower of Damietta, by Cornelis Claesz van Wieringen (1627)

See also

In Spanish: 1218 para niños