1271
Kublai Khan proclaims the Yuan dynasty
Choosing a Chinese dynastic name from the Book of Changes, Kublai formally inaugurated the Yuan in his new capital of Dadu. The Mongol great khan now ruled as a Chinese emperor, with all the Confucian pageantry his Mongolian cousins regarded as embarrassing. The adoption of a Chinese-style dynasty name signaled Kublai's determination to be seen as a legitimate successor to the Han, Tang, and Song.
Marco Polo departs for the East
The seventeen-year-old Venetian set out with his father Niccolo and uncle Maffeo on a journey that would last twenty-four years. They carried a letter from the new pope, a phial of holy oil, and the intention of selling what they could along the Silk Road. Their route took them through Armenia, Persia, and the Pamir mountains before they finally descended into the vast plains of China.
Baibars captures Krak des Chevaliers
The great Hospitaller fortress, perched on a Syrian hilltop and thought impregnable, surrendered after a month's siege. Baibars had forged a letter from the grand master commanding capitulation. The mightiest crusader castle became a Mamluk garrison. The fortress's concentric walls and massive towers, which had withstood every previous assault, proved vulnerable to Baibars's combination of military engineering and calculated deception.
Edward of England on crusade at Acre
Before becoming king, Edward I arrived at Acre at the head of a small crusader force and attempted to fortify the dwindling Kingdom of Jerusalem. He survived an assassin's poisoned dagger thanks, one account claims, to his wife Eleanor sucking the wound clean. The experience left Edward with a lasting interest in castle-building and military engineering that he would apply with devastating effect in Wales.
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Frequently asked
What happened in the year 1271?
Saeculum lists 4 curated events from 1271. The most significant is Kublai Khan proclaims the Yuan dynasty: Choosing a Chinese dynastic name from the Book of Changes, Kublai formally inaugurated the Yuan in his new capital of Dadu.
What era was 1271 part of?
1271 falls within the High Middle Ages (1000-1300). Crusades, cathedrals, and the slow waking of Europe.
Which regions saw notable events in 1271?
The curated events from 1271 span East Asia, Europe and Middle East.