1421 facts for kids

The year 1421 was a time of important events across Europe and beyond. Kings and leaders made big decisions, and some parts of the world faced natural disasters. This year saw battles, changes in power, and new ideas like the first patent.

Big Events of 1421

A Battle in France

On March 21, a battle called the Battle of Baugé happened in France. A smaller French army surprised and defeated an English force. The English army was led by Thomas, Duke of Clarence. He was the brother of the English king, Henry V of England. This battle took place in a region of France called Normandy.

New Leader for the Ottoman Empire

On May 26, Mehmed I, the leader (called a Sultan) of the Ottoman Empire, passed away. His son, Murad II, became the new Sultan. The Ottoman Empire was a very powerful and large empire at that time.

The Great St. Elizabeth Flood

From November 17 to 19, a terrible flood hit the Netherlands. It was called the St. Elizabeth flood. An extremely high tide from the North Sea caused the coastal area near Dordrecht to flood. This disaster was huge. About 72 villages were completely covered by water. Sadly, around 10,000 people lost their lives in this flood.

Land Sale in Europe

John III of Dampierre, who was a Marquis (a type of noble) from Namur, sold his lands. He sold them to Philip the Good, who was the Duke of Burgundy. This was a common way for powerful people to gain more land and influence during that time.

First Patent Issued

In 1421, the Republic of Florence issued the very first patent. A patent is a special right given to an inventor. It means that only the inventor can make, use, or sell their invention for a certain time. This was an important step for protecting new ideas and inventions.

A Theory About Chinese Explorers

There is a theory by a writer named Gavin Menzies. He suggests that Chinese explorers might have discovered the Americas in 1421. This would have been about 70 years before Christopher Columbus. This idea is still debated by historians.

People Born in 1421

Important Births

• July 25 – Henry Percy, 3rd Earl of Northumberland was born. He became an important English politician later in his life.
• December 6 – King Henry VI of England was born. He would later become the King of England.

Other Notable Births

• We don't know the exact date, but a Buddhist priest and Japanese poet named Sogi was born this year.
• Also born around this time was Agnès Sorel. She was a famous lady who was a companion to Charles VII of France.
• Ponhea Yat, who became a ruler of the Khmer Empire, was also born in 1421.

People Who Died in 1421

Notable Deaths

• January 21 – Niccolò I Trinci, a lord from Foligno, passed away.
• March 22 – Thomas of Lancaster, 1st Duke of Clarence died. He was the second son of Henry IV of England and was killed in battle.
• In May – Balša III, who was a ruler of Zeta, passed away.
• May 26 – Mehmed I, the Ottoman Sultan, died.
• We don't know the exact date, but John FitzAlan, 13th Earl of Arundel also died in 1421.

See also

In Spanish: 1421 para niños