June 21

Born Yuan Gong, he became emperor in 531 during a period of intense court rivalry. His reign was dominated by the powerful general Gao Huan, limiting his ability to rule. Despite efforts to uphold imperial authority, he was deposed within a year. He died in captivity in 532 at a young age. His short tenure exemplifies the decline and fragmentation of the Northern Wei state.

Rodulf served as an archbishop within the Frankish realm during the tumultuous 9th century. He oversaw ecclesiastical administration and worked to strengthen church structures amid political fragmentation. His tenure coincided with increased Viking raids, requiring coordination between secular and religious authorities. Rodulf is remembered for his efforts to defend church lands and maintain clerical discipline. He died in 866, leaving a legacy of committed service to the Carolingian church.

Born in 829, Ali al-Hadi succeeded his father as the tenth Imam in 835, guiding the Shia community through political pressure. He is celebrated for his deep knowledge of theology, jurisprudence, and ethics. Through letters and representatives, he maintained communication with followers and helped establish organizational structures. His leadership occurred under Abbasid surveillance, yet he balanced discretion with spiritual authority. He passed away in Samarra in 868, and his tomb remains a significant pilgrimage site.

Born Ya'qub ibn al-Mu'tazz, he ascended the Abbasid throne in 869 amid the Anarchy at Samarra. Known for his personal austerity and desire to curb the power of military factions, he attempted to reform court practices. His efforts to reinforce caliphal authority challenged the dominance of Turkish generals. Despite initial support, his reforms provoked opposition that led to his deposition and execution in 870. His fleeting rule is remembered as one of principled but ultimately unsuccessful attempts at restoring Abbasid prestige.

Little personal information survives about Zhang Li, but he served the Liao court as a trusted administrator. His work involved managing state affairs and advising the emperor on governance and military matters. Zhang Li's tenure reflects the integration of Han administration within Khitan rule. His contributions helped consolidate Liao authority over diverse populations and territories. He died in 947, remembered as a key figure in the dynasty's bureaucratic development.

Fulk III ruled Anjou from 987 to 1040, strengthening his domain through castle-building and strategic marriages. He earned his nickname through his imposing presence and reputation for firmness. A shrewd diplomat, he navigated alliances among neighboring nobles and the French crown. Under his leadership, the region saw increased stability and the rise of the Angevin legacy. He died in 1040, laying the foundation for his descendants' future prominence in European affairs.

Born in Normandy around 1103, Walter de Luci entered the Benedictine order and later moved to England. He became abbot of Battle Abbey, where he implemented reforms to strengthen the Rule of Saint Benedict. Under his guidance, the abbey revived its scholarly and charitable activities. Walter balanced relationships with both secular authorities and the papacy to protect monastic interests. He died in 1171, remembered for his devout leadership and contributions to monastic scholarship.

Born in 1177, Philip was the son of Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa and Isabella of England. Elected King of Germany in 1198, he contested the crown with Otto IV, leading to years of civil strife. Philip forged alliances with the papacy and key German princes to bolster his claim. His reign was characterized by diplomatic negotiations, military campaigns, and the struggle to maintain imperial authority. In 1208, he was assassinated, abruptly ending his efforts to unify the empire under Hohenstaufen rule.

Born in 1271, he ascended the Bohemian throne as a child under regency, eventually ruling in his own right. He strengthened the kingdom's economy through silver mining in Kutná Hora and introduced the Prague groschen currency. In 1300, Wenceslaus secured the Polish crown, briefly uniting two kingdoms under his leadership. His reign encouraged cultural exchange, architectural projects, and legal reforms. He died suddenly in 1305, leaving a legacy of prosperity and centralization.

Born in 1339, Erik ascended to the Swedish throne in 1356 alongside his brother Magnus. Their joint reign faced the aftermath of the Black Death and internal noble conflicts. Erik held the duchy of Finland and led efforts to secure Sweden's eastern territories. His rule involved military organization and reconstruction following population losses. He died young in 1359, and his brief tenure is remembered for navigating a kingdom amid social and economic recovery.

Born in 1312, Edward III ascended to the English throne at age 14 and reigned for 50 years. He revitalized England's military efforts by claiming the French crown and winning decisive victories in the Hundred Years' War. His triumph at the Battle of Crécy in 1346 showcased his innovative tactics and chivalric valor. A founding patron of the Order of the Garter, he elevated knighthood and medieval pageantry. Edward also strengthened the role of the English Parliament, paving the way for future constitutional developments. Despite facing the Black Death and internal unrest, his reign weathered immense challenges. He died on June 21, 1377, leaving a legacy as one of England's most dynamic medieval monarchs.

Born in 1366, Jean Le Maingre dedicated his life to the art of warfare and chivalric honor. Best known as Marshal Boucicaut, he served as Marshal of France under kings Charles VI and Charles VII. He led French forces in Italy, including campaigns in Naples and Milan, demonstrating tactical skill and bravery. Le Maingre also participated in the crusades and upheld the ideals of knighthood on and off the battlefield. An accomplished chronicler, he penned treatises on martial conduct that influenced future generations of knights. He died of the plague during the siege of Brescia on June 21, 1421, leaving a formidable legacy in medieval military history.