ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

1362: A Year of Significance

In the year 1362, a multitude of events unfolded across various regions, shaping the course of history. This common year, which began on Saturday according to the Julian calendar, witnessed significant milestones in politics, warfare, and cultural endeavors.

One notable event took place in France, where marauding mercenaries from the Grandes Compagnies clashed with French forces under Jacques I de Bourbon and Jean de Melun, Count of Tancarville. The dismissed mercenaries, who had initially been brought to fight on behalf of France during the Hundred Years' War against England, went on to devastate the county of La Marche in April 1362.

In the Emirate of Granada, a power struggle ensued between Emir Muhammad VI and his predecessor Muhammad V, supported by the Merinids in Morocco. The conflict culminated in Muhammad VI's execution by Peter I of Castile on April 25, allowing Muhammad V to reclaim his rule over the emirate.

Meanwhile, in North-Eastern Europe, forces from the German Order destroyed the city of Kaunas in April 1362. This event marked a significant turning point in the region, as it led to Emperor Charles IV recognizing Zurich's alliances with the Confederation and solidifying the Old Confederation.

The Lithuanian Grand Duke Algirdas and his brother Kęstutis achieved a major victory over the Golden Horde in the Battle of the Blue Water on the Synjucha River near Torhowytsia. This triumph enabled them to take control of Kiev and Podolien, with the Principality being subsequently annexed into their empire.

In Cyprus, King Peter I, who was also titular king of Jerusalem, embarked on an extended trip to Europe in 1362 to promote his crusade idea. He met with Pope Urban V and numerous monarchs, including King John II of France and Emperor Charles IV, until he succeeded in assembling an army for his crusade.

The year 1362 also saw the conquest of Adrianople by the Ottomans, as well as the passing of Prince Balša I of the Balšić family. His dominion over Zeta and around Shkodra was inherited by his sons Stracimir, Đurađ, and Balša.

In other regions, notable figures were born or passed away in 1362. Robert de Vere, 9th Earl of Oxford and Duke of Ireland,