1481
Mehmed II Dies
The fifty-year-old sultan, preparing another major campaign possibly against Rhodes or Egypt, died in his camp in Anatolia of unclear causes, perhaps…
Tomas de Torquemada Appointed Grand Inquisitor
The Dominican friar who had been Isabella's confessor took formal command of the Spanish Inquisition and turned it into an instrument of terrifying efficiency.
Bayezid II Becomes Ottoman Sultan
Mehmed II's elder son defeated his brother Cem in a brief civil war and took the throne.
Ottomans Abandon Otranto
Following Mehmed II's death and the civil war between his sons, the Ottoman garrison at Otranto was recalled.
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Frequently asked
What happened in the year 1481?
Saeculum lists 4 events from 1481. The most significant is Mehmed II Dies.
What era was 1481 part of?
1481 falls within the Late Middle Ages (1301-1500). Plague, papal schism, and the seeds of nation-states.
Which regions saw notable events in 1481?
The events from 1481 span Middle East and Europe.