The
Great Schism (a.k.a., the
East-West Schism) divides Christianity into Orthodox and Catholic branches.
- The Orthodox Church is centered in Constantinople, the Catholic Church in Rome.
- Orthodox Christians objected to the growing power of the papacy.
- In the Filioque controversy over the Christian doctrine of the Trinity, Orthodox theologians held that the Holy Spirit proceeded from the Father, while Catholic theologians believed it proceeded from both the Father and the Son.
William the Conqueror of Normandy defeats the English at the Battle of Hastings.
The Seljuk Turks, from central Asia, defeat the Byzantine Empire at the Battle of Manzikert.
Pope Gregory VII excommunicates emperor Henry IV as part of the Investiture Controversy over whether secular or religious authorities should appoint clergy.
The Domesday Book, a survey of the population of England ordered by William the Conqueror to improve tax collection, is completed.
The
Crusades begin as
Pope Urban II responds to a request from the Byzantine emperor for aid against the Seljuk Turks. Over the next 200 years, the Crusades will lead to the following:
- Increased hostility toward Muslims and Jews
- Increased trade in the Mediterranean
- The growing power of military orders of knights
