ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

The Yongle Era in China and Global Events of 1403

The year 1403 marked a significant period in world history, characterized by the reign of Emperor Cheng Zu in China, the Ottoman interregnum, and various European monarchies. In China, King Zhu Di of the Yan State had deposed the southern Chinese Emperor Zhu Yun Wen six months prior to the start of the Yongle Era, proclaiming himself as Emperor Cheng Zu on February 20.

Meanwhile, in Europe, events unfolded with the signing of the Treaty of Gallipoli completed on February 7. This treaty was part of a broader peace agreement between Suleyman Bey, Venice, Genoa, and other parties, including Stefan Lazarević and the Duke of Naxos. The Ottomans undertook to return Thessaloniki to its rightful owners.

In England, Prince Henry of England, son of King Henri IV, was appointed as Lord Chancellor in 1403, a position he held until 1404 and again from 1413 to 1417. This marked an important milestone in the reign of King Henri IV, who had recently married his second wife, Jeanne de Navarre.

The year also saw significant events on the island of Cyprus. A Genoese expedition led by Marshal Boucicaut departed for Famagusta in April, aiming to lift the siege that had been ongoing since 1398. The expedition was part of a broader effort to counter Ottoman expansion in the region.

In Constantinople, Manuel II Palaiologos returned from an absence of over two years in Western Europe on June 9. This marked a significant event in the Byzantine Empire's history, as it demonstrated the emperor's efforts to reassert his authority and engage with European powers.

The year also saw the coronation of Eleanor of Castile as Queen of Navarra, taking place in Pamplona on June 3. Additionally, John III of Soltaniyeh, a Dominican friar representing Timur, Emir of Transoxiana, arrived in Paris to secure an agreement with King Carlos III of Navarre.

In other regions, the Ottoman interregnum began after the death of Sultan Bayezid I on March 8. This marked the beginning of dynastic struggles between his sons, which would eventually come to an end in 1413. The Tatar Khan instructed his father Zafar Khan to walk on Delhi, but when he