The Bubonic Plague reaches Europe, eventually killing one-third of Europe’s population. Jews face increasing suspicion and persecution, and are burned at the stake in France.
King Alfonso XI of Castile and King Afonso IV of Portugal Join Forces
King Alfonso XI of Castile and King Afonso IV of Portugal join forces. They fight against the combined army of the Marinid ruler from North Africa, Abu al-Hasan Ali, and the Nasrid ruler of Granada, Yusuf I.
Ramon Llull of Mallorca Dies
Philosopher and scholar Ramon Llull of Mallorca dies. He advocated the study of Arabic to more effectively convert Muslims to Christianity. At one point, he preached for unification of the three monotheistic faiths and discouraged military engagement.
Civil Wars Ignite In Castile
Civil wars ignite in Castile between nobles. King Dinis of Portugal and King Fernando IV of Castile sign a treaty to define the borders of Portugal. These borders remain today.
Large Communities of Jews Reside In cities Under Christian Rule
Large communities of Jews reside in juderías in cities under Christian rule. Similar neighborhoods, called morerías, house Mudejar Muslims. They decide to remain under Christian rule rather than emigrate to Granada or North Africa. Christian rulers offer incentives to northern Christians to settle into newly conquered areas. However, Muslims continue…
Alfonso X Consolidates Power
Alfonso X, the eldest son of Fernando III and husband of Jaime I’s daughter, consolidates power as ruler of the largest Christian kingdom in Iberia. As “Emperor of the Three Faiths,” he fosters a relatively tolerant atmosphere for Jews and Muslims living under his rule. Known as “El Sabio” (“The…
