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The 1180s: A Decade of Global Significance

The 1180s was a transformative decade that spanned from January 1, 1180, to December 31, 1189. This period witnessed significant events in various regions, including Europe, Asia, and Africa.

In the Byzantine Empire, Maria assumed power as regent until 1183, accompanied by her advisor and lover Alexios Komnenos, a nephew of Manuel I. This caused scandal among the population, highlighting the complexities of imperial politics during this time. In contrast, Henry the Lion, Duke of Saxony and Bavaria, was stripped of his duchies and fiefs at an Imperial Diet in Würzburg, marking a significant shift in European power dynamics.

The decade also saw the death of King Louis VII of France on September 18, 1180, after a 43-year reign. In Asia, Japan experienced the Genpei War from 1180 to 1185, which marked the beginning of the Kamakura period (1185-1333). The Ghorides continued their conquests in North India during this time, with Mahmud de Ghor seizing key cities such as Peshawar and Lahore.

In West Africa, Koi Konboro, the ruler of Djenné-Djeno, converted to Islam around 1180. His subjects subsequently established a new Islamic city, Jenné, which would become an important center of learning in the region. The Khmer Empire reached its peak under Jayavarman VII's reign from 1181 to 1200.

In Eastern Europe, Kyiv experienced significant changes during this period. Robert Rosewicz installed a duvirat and established his rule over parts of the city. Meanwhile, Jaroslaw the Almighty sat on the throne in Vladimir Sutral, while the Newtown had its own unique system of government.

The decade also saw various conflicts and power struggles across different regions. The Battle of Ishibashiyama took place in 1184, where a Taira force defeated Minamoto no Yoritomo's army near Mount Fuji. In Europe, Philip II began a war against Count Felipe de Alsacia over the Vermandois.

Throughout this decade, various leaders and rulers left their mark on history. King Baldwin IV of Jerusalem sent envoys to Saladin proposing peace talks, while Guy of Lusignan arranged his sister Sibylla's marriage to