1258

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1258: The Conquest of Baghdad and its Aftermath

The year 1258 was marked by significant events that would have far-reaching consequences for various regions, including the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. In terms of politics and world affairs, one of the most notable events occurred in January when the main army of the Mongols, led by Khan Hülegü, arrived from the west in front of Baghdad during a period known as the Mongol storm.

The attack on the capital of the Islamic caliphate state was personally commissioned by Grand Khan Möngke Khan and began on January 29. The Mongols succeeded in conquering Baghdad after less than three weeks, with estimates suggesting that between 100,000 to one million people were killed or enslaved during this period. This event marked a significant blow to Islam's Golden Age, which had been centered in the city of Baghdad.

The destruction of the House of Wisdom and all other libraries of the city was particularly devastating, as these institutions had served as centers of learning and intellectual inquiry for centuries. The execution of Caliph al-Musta'sim bi-'llah, who refused to surrender the city, further solidified the end of the Abbasid caliphate in Baghdad.

The aftermath of this event saw a significant shift in the balance of power between various regional powers. In Asia, the Trần dynasty in Vietnam was able to fend off an initial attempt at conquest by the Mongols, largely due to the military capabilities of General Trần Hưng Đạo. Meanwhile, in Europe, the war of Saint-Sabas between the Republic of Venice and the Republic of Genoa continued, with a partial peace being concluded in anticipation of further fighting against Muslim forces.

In Cyprus, King Louis IX of France ("the Santo") had recently signed a treaty of peace with King James I of Aragon ("El Conquistador"), marking an important development in European politics. Additionally, Manfred, the son of late Emperor Frederick II, was crowned king of Sicily at Palermo, although his coronation was later declared null and void by Pope Alexander IV due to his alliance with Muslim forces.

The year 1258 also saw significant events within the Byzantine Empire, including the death of Emperor Theodore II Laskaris after a four-year reign. Furthermore, George Mouzalon was assassinated in Magnesia ad Sipylum as part of a conspiracy led by future Emperor Michael VIII Palaiologos. In Iceland