1050
Al-Biruni dies at Ghazni
The Khwarezmian polymath, who had written an encyclopedia of India based on learning Sanskrit, calculated the earth's radius from a mountain angle…
Chola Navy Dominates Indian Ocean Trade Routes
The Chola empire's formidable navy - the largest in the Indian Ocean - continued to enforce Tamil commercial supremacy from Sri Lanka to the Strait of Malacca.
Pope Leo IX condemns simony at Reims
At the Council of Reims, the reforming pope forced bishops to swear they had not bought their offices.
Crossbow appears in European warfare
Records from Anjou describe soldiers wielding the mechanical bow-and-stock weapon that could drive a short bolt through mail at fifty paces.
Zenith of taifa culture in Seville
The Abbadid kings of Seville presided over a brilliant Arabic court that rivaled Cordoba's former glory.
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Frequently asked
What happened in the year 1050?
Saeculum lists 5 events from 1050. The most significant is Al-Biruni dies at Ghazni.
What era was 1050 part of?
1050 falls within the High Middle Ages (1000-1300). Crusades, cathedrals, and the slow waking of Europe.
Which regions saw notable events in 1050?
The events from 1050 span Central Asia, South Asia and Europe.