12th century facts for kids

The 12th century was a period of big changes around the world. It lasted from the year 1101 to 1200. During this time, many new ideas, inventions, and powerful empires emerged. It was a time of growth and conflict across different continents.

What Happened in the 12th Century?

The 12th century saw many important events that shaped history. People traveled more, new cities grew, and different cultures interacted. This led to new discoveries and sometimes, new conflicts.

Europe in the 12th Century

In Europe, the 12th century was a time of growth and building. Many grand cathedrals were constructed, like the one in Cuenca, Spain. These buildings showed new styles of architecture.

• The Crusades: European knights and armies continued to travel to the Middle East. These were called the Crusades. They aimed to take control of holy lands. One famous leader was Richard I of England, also known as Richard the Lionheart. He was a key figure in the Third Crusade.
• New Kingdoms: Many kingdoms in Europe became stronger. Kings and queens gained more power, and countries like England and France started to look more like they do today.
• Learning and Universities: People became more interested in learning. The first universities started to appear in cities like Paris and Bologna. Scholars studied subjects like law, medicine, and philosophy.

Asia in the 12th Century

Asia was home to many powerful empires and new ideas during this century.

• China's Song Dynasty: In China, the Song Dynasty continued to thrive. They made many amazing inventions, like gunpowder and printing. The Liuhe Pagoda in Hangzhou, built in 1165, shows their advanced building skills.
• Khmer Empire and Angkor Wat: The Khmer Empire in Southeast Asia was very powerful. They built the incredible Angkor Wat temple complex in Cambodia. This huge temple was dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu.
• Ghurid Empire: In what is now Afghanistan and parts of India, the Ghurid Empire grew strong. They spread Islam in many areas.
• Japan's Heian and Kamakura Periods: In Japan, the Heian period ended, and the Kamakura period began. This was a time when military leaders, called shoguns, gained more power than the emperor.

Middle East and North Africa

This region was a center of learning and powerful empires.

• Islamic Golden Age: The Islamic world was still a leader in science, medicine, and philosophy. Scholars like Averroes, a famous philosopher and doctor, made important contributions.
• Saladin's Rise: A famous leader named Saladin united many Muslim armies. He fought against the Crusaders and recaptured Jerusalem. He is known for his fairness and military skill.

Important People of the 12th Century

Many influential people lived during this time.

• Richard I of England: Known as Richard the Lionheart, he was a brave king and a key leader in the Third Crusade.
• Saladin: A brilliant Muslim leader who fought against the Crusaders and was known for his chivalry.
• Suryavarman II: The Khmer king who ordered the building of the magnificent Angkor Wat temple.
• Averroes: A famous Islamic scholar from Spain who wrote about philosophy, medicine, and astronomy.

Inventions and Discoveries

The 12th century saw several important advancements.

• Compass: The magnetic compass was used more widely for navigation, helping sailors explore further.
• Paper Money: In China, paper money became more common, making trade easier.
• Windmills: Windmills were used in Europe to grind grain and pump water, showing new ways to use natural power.

Images for kids

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  The Ghurid Empire converted to Islam from Buddhism.

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  A Black and White Photo of the 12th century Cuenca Cathedral (built from 1182 to 1270) in Cuenca, Spain

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  The temple complex of Angkor Wat, built during the reign of Suryavarman II in Cambodia of the Khmer Era.

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  Averroes in a 14th-century painting by Andrea di Bonaiuto

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  The Liuhe Pagoda of Hangzhou, China, 1165

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  Saladin Ayyubi and Guy of Lusignan after Battle of Hattin.

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  Richard I of England, or Richard the Lionheart.

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  Eastern Hemisphere at the end of the 12th century

See also

In Spanish: Siglo XII para niños