900 facts for kids

The year 900 AD was a time of important changes and discoveries around the world. From new kingdoms forming in Korea to scientific breakthroughs in Persia, and busy trade routes connecting different continents, this year saw many events that shaped history.

Discoveries in Medicine and Science

In the year 900, a brilliant Persian scientist named Rhazes made a huge step forward in medicine. He was the first to clearly explain the differences between two serious diseases: smallpox and measles. This was very important because it helped doctors understand and treat these illnesses better. Rhazes was also a deep thinker who questioned old ideas, even about how the world works. He believed in the idea of "absolute time," which means time flows constantly and never stops.

New Kingdoms and Leaders

In Korea, a new kingdom was officially started in the southwest. A leader named Gyeonhwon established the kingdom of Hubaekje. This was a significant event in Korean history, as it was one of the "Later Three Kingdoms" that emerged after the fall of the Silla kingdom.

Meanwhile, in Norway, a powerful leader named Harold I (also known as Harold Fairhair) was busy uniting the country. He managed to bring many smaller kingdoms under his rule. He also expanded his power by taking control of the Orkney and Shetland islands, which are located north of Scotland. Harold I is often seen as the first king to unite Norway.

Global Trade and Connections

The year 900 was also a time of active trade across different parts of the world. Merchants from southwest Asia and India traveled to the east coast of Africa. They set up communities there and traded many valuable goods. These merchants exchanged items like gold, beautiful beads, and metal for things like ivory (from elephant tusks) and people who were forced into labor. This trade helped connect different cultures and economies, bringing new goods and ideas to various regions.

Images for kids

• 

  The Earth's Eastern Hemisphere (around 900 AD), showing trade routes and major regions.

• 

  An artist's idea of Gunnbjörn discovering Greenland (around 900 AD).