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Period: Sep 13, 1000 to Sep 14, 1492
High and Late Middle Ages
Nation-state:
A political unit that has to have territory, boundaries, political organization that controls its own and foreign affairs, a population and it must be recognized by other political units -
Sep 15, 1200
The Struggle for Italy
Although the investiture was over, new battles were soon raging between popes and emperors. During the 1100's and 1200's, ambitious German emperors sought to control Italy. As they did so, they came into conflict with popes and with the wealthy cities of northern Italy. -
Sep 16, 1209
Papal Supremacy
In 1209, Innocent, aided by Philip II, launched a brutal crusade against the Albigensians in Southern France. The Albigensians were targeted because they rejected central Catholic beliefs and rituals. Tens of thousands of people were slaughtered in the Albigensian Crusade. -
Jan 1, 1215
King John Signs Magna Carta
The Magna Carta shaped English government for many years to come. It contained 2 important ideas; 1) nobles had rights, which would later be extended to all citizes and 2) the document forced monarchs to obey the same laws as others. -
Sep 16, 1226
Louis IX
In 1226, Louis IX became the king of France. Louis persecuted those who held beliefs contrary to church teachings. He also persecuted Jews and led French knights in two crusades against Muslims. The church declared him a saint. -
Sep 15, 1295
The Development of Parliament
In keeping with the Magna Carta, English rulers often called on the Great Council for advice. During the 1200's, this council evolved into Parliament, which later became England's legislature. As Parliament acquired a larger role in government, it helped unify England.