1162
Genghis Khan born on the Onon River
A Mongol chieftain's son was born clutching a blood clot in his fist - an omen, his people said, of greatness.
Thomas Becket consecrated Archbishop of Canterbury
Henry II's worldly, ambitious chancellor was installed as primate of England and almost immediately underwent a conversion so severe his king thought him…
Milan razed by Barbarossa
After a two-year siege, Frederick's army entered Milan and, on imperial orders, began systematically dismantling the city.
Death of Geoffrey of Monmouth
The Welsh-descended cleric who had given Europe King Arthur, Merlin, and the Prophecies of Merlin died shortly after his appointment as bishop of St Asaph.
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Frequently asked
What happened in the year 1162?
Saeculum lists 4 events from 1162. The most significant is Genghis Khan born on the Onon River: A Mongol chieftain's son was born clutching a blood clot in his fist - an omen, his people said, of greatness.
What era was 1162 part of?
1162 falls within the High Middle Ages (1000-1300). Crusades, cathedrals, and the slow waking of Europe.
Which regions saw notable events in 1162?
The events from 1162 span Central Asia and Europe.