Refine your search

The results of your search are listed below alongside the search terms you entered on the previous page. You can refine your search by amending any of the parameters in the form and resubmitting it.

Select all Deselect all Add selection to lightbox
Large Small
Thumbnails per page
Japan: Aritomo Yamagata (14 June 1838 – 1 February 1922), Prime Minister of Japan from 1909 to 1922.<br/><br/> Prince Yamagata Aritomo, also known as Yamagata Kyōsuke, was a Japanese field marshal, twice-elected Prime Minister of Japan, and one of the leaders of the Meiji oligarchy. As the Imperial Japanese Army’s inaugural Chief of Staff, he was the main architect of the military foundation of early modern Japan.
Prince Yamagata Aritomo (14 June 1838 – 1 February 1922), also known as Yamagata Kyōsuke, was a Japanese field marshal, twice-elected Prime Minister of Japan, and one of the leaders of the Meiji oligarchy. As the Imperial Japanese Army’s inaugural Chief of Staff, he was the main architect of the military foundation of early modern Japan.<br/><br/> Okada Saburosuke (12 January 1869 - 23 September, 1939) was a Japanese yōga (Western-style) painter. He was influenced by great yōga painters such as Kuroda Seiki and Kume Keiichiro, and became one of the founding members of Hakuba-kai (White Horse Society), an artists' association. He was awarded the Order of Culture in 1937, the highest honour in the Japanese cultural world.
The equestrian statue of Ferdinando I was originally commissioned from an elderly Giambologna (1529 - 1608) and completed by his pupil Pietro Tacca.<br/><br/> Ferdinando I de' Medici (30 July 1549 – 17 February 1609) was Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1587 to 1609, having succeeded his older brother Francesco I.
The equestrian statue of Ferdinando I was originally commissioned from an elderly Giambologna (1529 - 1608) and completed by his pupil Pietro Tacca.<br/><br/> Ferdinando I de' Medici (30 July 1549 – 17 February 1609) was Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1587 to 1609, having succeeded his older brother Francesco I.
The equestrian statue of Ferdinando I was originally commissioned from an elderly Giambologna (1529 - 1608) and completed by his pupil Pietro Tacca.<br/><br/> Ferdinando I de' Medici (30 July 1549 – 17 February 1609) was Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1587 to 1609, having succeeded his older brother Francesco I.
The equestrian statue of Ferdinando I was originally commissioned from an elderly Giambologna (1529 - 1608) and completed by his pupil Pietro Tacca.<br/><br/> Ferdinando I de' Medici (30 July 1549 – 17 February 1609) was Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1587 to 1609, having succeeded his older brother Francesco I.
Joachim-Napoléon Murat (Gioacchino Murat; 25 March 1767 – 13 October 1815) was a Marshal of France and Admiral of France under the reign of Napoleon. He was also the 1st Prince Murat, Grand Duke of Berg from 1806 to 1808, and King of Naples from 1808 to 1815.<br/><br/> Murat received his titles in part by being Napoleon's brother-in-law through marriage to his younger sister, Caroline Bonaparte, as well as personal merit. He was noted as a daring, brave, and charismatic cavalry officer as well as a flamboyant dresser, for which he was known as 'the Dandy King'.
Charles V (24 February 1500 – 21 September 1558) was ruler of both the Holy Roman Empire from 1519 and the Spanish Empire (as Charles I of Spain) from 1516, as well as of the lands of the former Duchy of Burgundy from 1506. He stepped down from these and other positions by a series of abdications between 1554 and 1556.<br/><br/> Through inheritance, Charles brought together under his rule extensive territories in western, central, and southern Europe, and the Spanish viceroyalties in the Americas and Asia. As a result, his domains spanned nearly 4 million square kilometres (1.5 million square miles), and were the first to be described as 'the empire on which the sun never sets'.
Charles V (24 February 1500 – 21 September 1558) was ruler of both the Holy Roman Empire from 1519 and the Spanish Empire (as Charles I of Spain) from 1516, as well as of the lands of the former Duchy of Burgundy from 1506. He stepped down from these and other positions by a series of abdications between 1554 and 1556.<br/><br/> Through inheritance, Charles brought together under his rule extensive territories in western, central, and southern Europe, and the Spanish viceroyalties in the Americas and Asia. As a result, his domains spanned nearly 4 million square kilometres (1.5 million square miles), and were the first to be described as 'the empire on which the sun never sets'.
Charles V (24 February 1500 – 21 September 1558) was ruler of both the Holy Roman Empire from 1519 and the Spanish Empire (as Charles I of Spain) from 1516, as well as of the lands of the former Duchy of Burgundy from 1506. He stepped down from these and other positions by a series of abdications between 1554 and 1556.<br/><br/> Through inheritance, Charles brought together under his rule extensive territories in western, central, and southern Europe, and the Spanish viceroyalties in the Americas and Asia. As a result, his domains spanned nearly 4 million square kilometres (1.5 million square miles), and were the first to be described as 'the empire on which the sun never sets'.
Charles V (24 February 1500 – 21 September 1558) was ruler of both the Holy Roman Empire from 1519 and the Spanish Empire (as Charles I of Spain) from 1516, as well as of the lands of the former Duchy of Burgundy from 1506. He stepped down from these and other positions by a series of abdications between 1554 and 1556.<br/><br/> Through inheritance, Charles brought together under his rule extensive territories in western, central, and southern Europe, and the Spanish viceroyalties in the Americas and Asia. As a result, his domains spanned nearly 4 million square kilometres (1.5 million square miles), and were the first to be described as 'the empire on which the sun never sets'.
Frederick III (1415-1493), also known as Frederick the Fat and Frederick the Peaceful, was the eldest son of the Inner Austrian duke Ernest the Iron, a member of the Habsburg dynasty. He became duke of Inner Austria in 1424 at the age of nine, but would not be awarded rule until 1435, with his younger brother Albert asserting his rights as co-ruler. By 1439, Frederick had become the undisputed head of the Habsburg dynasty.<br/><br/> Frederick died in 1493, aged 77, bleeding to death after having his infected left leg amputated.
Albert II (1397-1439), also known as Albert of Germany and Albert the Magnanimous, was the son of Albert IV, Duke of Austria, succeeding his father at the age of seven in 1404, though he did not become the proper governor of Austria until 1411. Albert married Elisabeth of Luxembourg, heiress of Emperor Sigismund, in 1422.<br/><br/> Albert assisted his father-in-law during the Hussite Wars, and was in turn named as successor in 1423. When Sigismund died in 1437, Albert was crowned King of Hungary a year later. He was crowned King of Bohemia six months afterwards, though he did not obtain actual possession of the country, and was forced to wage war against the Bohemians and their Polish allies. The crown of Germany was given to him in 1438.<br/><br/> Albert died in 1439 while defending Hungary from a Turkish invasion, and despite his short reign was known for being an energetic and warlike prince. He was also known for his harsh treatment of Austria's Jewish community, imprisoning and forcibly converting them or expelling them from Austria. Albert sentenced many Jews to death, burning them at the stake in 1421, destroying their synagogue in Vienna and placing an 'eternal ban' on them.
Albert II (1397-1439), also known as Albert of Germany and Albert the Magnanimous, was the son of Albert IV, Duke of Austria, succeeding his father at the age of seven in 1404, though he did not become the proper governor of Austria until 1411. Albert married Elisabeth of Luxembourg, heiress of Emperor Sigismund, in 1422.<br/><br/> Albert assisted his father-in-law during the Hussite Wars, and was in turn named as successor in 1423. When Sigismund died in 1437, Albert was crowned King of Hungary a year later. He was crowned King of Bohemia six months afterwards, though he did not obtain actual possession of the country, and was forced to wage war against the Bohemians and their Polish allies. The crown of Germany was given to him in 1438.<br/><br/> Albert died in 1439 while defending Hungary from a Turkish invasion, and despite his short reign was known for being an energetic and warlike prince. He was also known for his harsh treatment of Austria's Jewish community, imprisoning and forcibly converting them or expelling them from Austria. Albert sentenced many Jews to death, burning them at the stake in 1421, destroying their synagogue in Vienna and placing an 'eternal ban' on them.
Albert II (1397-1439), also known as Albert of Germany and Albert the Magnanimous, was the son of Albert IV, Duke of Austria, succeeding his father at the age of seven in 1404, though he did not become the proper governor of Austria until 1411. Albert married Elisabeth of Luxembourg, heiress of Emperor Sigismund, in 1422.<br/><br/> Albert assisted his father-in-law during the Hussite Wars, and was in turn named as successor in 1423. When Sigismund died in 1437, Albert was crowned King of Hungary a year later. He was crowned King of Bohemia six months afterwards, though he did not obtain actual possession of the country, and was forced to wage war against the Bohemians and their Polish allies. The crown of Germany was given to him in 1438.<br/><br/> Albert died in 1439 while defending Hungary from a Turkish invasion, and despite his short reign was known for being an energetic and warlike prince. He was also known for his harsh treatment of Austria's Jewish community, imprisoning and forcibly converting them or expelling them from Austria. Albert sentenced many Jews to death, burning them at the stake in 1421, destroying their synagogue in Vienna and placing an 'eternal ban' on them.
Albert II (1397-1439), also known as Albert of Germany and Albert the Magnanimous, was the son of Albert IV, Duke of Austria, succeeding his father at the age of seven in 1404, though he did not become the proper governor of Austria until 1411. Albert married Elisabeth of Luxembourg, heiress of Emperor Sigismund, in 1422.<br/><br/> Albert assisted his father-in-law during the Hussite Wars, and was in turn named as successor in 1423. When Sigismund died in 1437, Albert was crowned King of Hungary a year later. He was crowned King of Bohemia six months afterwards, though he did not obtain actual possession of the country, and was forced to wage war against the Bohemians and their Polish allies. The crown of Germany was given to him in 1438.<br/><br/> Albert died in 1439 while defending Hungary from a Turkish invasion, and despite his short reign was known for being an energetic and warlike prince. He was also known for his harsh treatment of Austria's Jewish community, imprisoning and forcibly converting them or expelling them from Austria. Albert sentenced many Jews to death, burning them at the stake in 1421, destroying their synagogue in Vienna and placing an 'eternal ban' on them.
Charles V (24 February 1500 – 21 September 1558) was ruler of both the Holy Roman Empire from 1519 and the Spanish Empire (as Charles I of Spain) from 1516, as well as of the lands of the former Duchy of Burgundy from 1506. He stepped down from these and other positions by a series of abdications between 1554 and 1556.<br/><br/> Through inheritance, Charles brought together under his rule extensive territories in western, central, and southern Europe, and the Spanish viceroyalties in the Americas and Asia. As a result, his domains spanned nearly 4 million square kilometres (1.5 million square miles), and were the first to be described as 'the empire on which the sun never sets'.
Albert II (1397-1439), also known as Albert of Germany and Albert the Magnanimous, was the son of Albert IV, Duke of Austria, succeeding his father at the age of seven in 1404, though he did not become the proper governor of Austria until 1411. Albert married Elisabeth of Luxembourg, heiress of Emperor Sigismund, in 1422.<br/><br/> Albert assisted his father-in-law during the Hussite Wars, and was in turn named as successor in 1423. When Sigismund died in 1437, Albert was crowned King of Hungary a year later. He was crowned King of Bohemia six months afterwards, though he did not obtain actual possession of the country, and was forced to wage war against the Bohemians and their Polish allies. The crown of Germany was given to him in 1438.<br/><br/> Albert died in 1439 while defending Hungary from a Turkish invasion, and despite his short reign was known for being an energetic and warlike prince. He was also known for his harsh treatment of Austria's Jewish community, imprisoning and forcibly converting them or expelling them from Austria. Albert sentenced many Jews to death, burning them at the stake in 1421, destroying their synagogue in Vienna and placing an 'eternal ban' on them.
Albert II (1397-1439), also known as Albert of Germany and Albert the Magnanimous, was the son of Albert IV, Duke of Austria, succeeding his father at the age of seven in 1404, though he did not become the proper governor of Austria until 1411. Albert married Elisabeth of Luxembourg, heiress of Emperor Sigismund, in 1422.<br/><br/> Albert assisted his father-in-law during the Hussite Wars, and was in turn named as successor in 1423. When Sigismund died in 1437, Albert was crowned King of Hungary a year later. He was crowned King of Bohemia six months afterwards, though he did not obtain actual possession of the country, and was forced to wage war against the Bohemians and their Polish allies. The crown of Germany was given to him in 1438.<br/><br/> Albert died in 1439 while defending Hungary from a Turkish invasion, and despite his short reign was known for being an energetic and warlike prince. He was also known for his harsh treatment of Austria's Jewish community, imprisoning and forcibly converting them or expelling them from Austria. Albert sentenced many Jews to death, burning them at the stake in 1421, destroying their synagogue in Vienna and placing an 'eternal ban' on them.
Wenceslaus IV (1361-1419), also known as Wenceslaus of Bohemia and Wenceslaus the Idle, was the son of Emperor Charles IV and became King of Bohemia in 1363, aged only two. He was elected as King of Germany in 1376 by the actions of his father, who passed away in 1378, making Wenceslaus sole ruler of Bohemia and the Holy Roman Empire.
Wenceslaus IV (1361-1419), also known as Wenceslaus of Bohemia and Wenceslaus the Idle, was the son of Emperor Charles IV and became King of Bohemia in 1363, aged only two. He was elected as King of Germany in 1376 by the actions of his father, who passed away in 1378, making Wenceslaus sole ruler of Bohemia and the Holy Roman Empire.
Louis IV (1282-1347), also known as Louis the Bavarian, was the son of Duke Louis II of Upper Bavaria and Matilda, daughter of King Rudolf I. He was of House Wittelsbach, and was initially a close friend to his Habsburg cousin Frederick the Fair, but they later fell out and violently clashed. He became Duke of Bavaria in 1301 alongside his brother Rudolf I, but became sole ruler in 1317.<br/><br/> When Emperor Henry VII died in 1313, two kings were elected to succeed him, one being Louis himself and the other his cousin Frederick. They were quickly crowned and then fought each other in a bloody war for several years, with Frederick poised to win until a decisive defeat in 1322 saw him captured by Louis. Louis later freed him in 1325, after Frederick recognised him as the legitimate King of Germany, and when Frederick returned to Louis as a prisoner when he could have easily fled after promising to try and covince his brothers to submit, Louis was so impressed by Frederick that he named him co-ruler of the Holy Roman Empire.<br/><br/> To Frederick went the title of King of Germany, while Louis was crowned as King of Italy in 1327 and Holy Roman Emperor in 1328. Louis found himself in conflict with the papacy and the pope, and in 1346 Charles IV of Luxembourg was elected as anti-king, supported by Pope Clement VI as a papal puppet. He successfully resisted Charles' attempts at usurpation, but Louis' sudden death in 1347 from a stroke while bear-hunting prevented a longer civil war from occurring and gave Charles the crown.
Louis IV (1282-1347), also known as Louis the Bavarian, was the son of Duke Louis II of Upper Bavaria and Matilda, daughter of King Rudolf I. He was of House Wittelsbach, and was initially a close friend to his Habsburg cousin Frederick the Fair, but they later fell out and violently clashed. He became Duke of Bavaria in 1301 alongside his brother Rudolf I, but became sole ruler in 1317.<br/><br/> When Emperor Henry VII died in 1313, two kings were elected to succeed him, one being Louis himself and the other his cousin Frederick. They were quickly crowned and then fought each other in a bloody war for several years, with Frederick poised to win until a decisive defeat in 1322 saw him captured by Louis. Louis later freed him in 1325, after Frederick recognised him as the legitimate King of Germany, and when Frederick returned to Louis as a prisoner when he could have easily fled after promising to try and covince his brothers to submit, Louis was so impressed by Frederick that he named him co-ruler of the Holy Roman Empire.<br/><br/> To Frederick went the title of King of Germany, while Louis was crowned as King of Italy in 1327 and Holy Roman Emperor in 1328. Louis found himself in conflict with the papacy and the pope, and in 1346 Charles IV of Luxembourg was elected as anti-king, supported by Pope Clement VI as a papal puppet. He successfully resisted Charles' attempts at usurpation, but Louis' sudden death in 1347 from a stroke while bear-hunting prevented a longer civil war from occurring and gave Charles the crown.
Frederick III (1289-1330), also known as Frederick the Handsome and Frederick the Fair, was the second son of King Albert I, thereby making him part of the Habsburg dynasty. He was made Duke of Austria and Styria in 1298 alongside his brother Rudolph III, becoming sole ruler after his brother died in 1307. He was originally a close friend to his cousin Louis IV of Wittelsbach, but they became enemies later in life.<br/><br/> When Emperor Henry VIII died in 1313, Frederick became a candidate for the throne, alongside his cousin Louis. Frederick received four out of seven elector votes, but a second election the next day saw Louis IV elected with five votes. Both were quickly crowned and became engaged in a civil war to see who would become the sole king of the Holy Roman Empire. Frederick was on the verge of victory when he was decisvely beaten in 1322 and taken prisoner by Louis, who held him captive for three years.<br/><br/> Frederick eventually recognised Louis' legitimacy in 1325 and vowed to convice his younger brothers, who still refused to acknowledge Louis, to submit or else he would return himself to captivity. When he failed to convince his brother Leopold to surrender, he returned to Munich as Louis' prisoner, who was so impressed by Frederick's gesture that he freed him and made a new pact to rule the Empire jointly in 1325. Frederick would officially govern as King of Germany, while Louis was crowned Holy Roman emperor. Frederick withdrew from his regency in 1326, returning to rule only Austria and Styria, though he was still considered King of Germany till his death in 1330.
Frederick III (1289-1330), also known as Frederick the Handsome and Frederick the Fair, was the second son of King Albert I, thereby making him part of the Habsburg dynasty. He was made Duke of Austria and Styria in 1298 alongside his brother Rudolph III, becoming sole ruler after his brother died in 1307. He was originally a close friend to his cousin Louis IV of Wittelsbach, but they became enemies later in life.<br/><br/> When Emperor Henry VIII died in 1313, Frederick became a candidate for the throne, alongside his cousin Louis. Frederick received four out of seven elector votes, but a second election the next day saw Louis IV elected with five votes. Both were quickly crowned and became engaged in a civil war to see who would become the sole king of the Holy Roman Empire. Frederick was on the verge of victory when he was decisvely beaten in 1322 and taken prisoner by Louis, who held him captive for three years.<br/><br/> Frederick eventually recognised Louis' legitimacy in 1325 and vowed to convice his younger brothers, who still refused to acknowledge Louis, to submit or else he would return himself to captivity. When he failed to convince his brother Leopold to surrender, he returned to Munich as Louis' prisoner, who was so impressed by Frederick's gesture that he freed him and made a new pact to rule the Empire jointly in 1325. Frederick would officially govern as King of Germany, while Louis was crowned Holy Roman emperor. Frederick withdrew from his regency in 1326, returning to rule only Austria and Styria, though he was still considered King of Germany till his death in 1330.
Albert I (1255-1308), also known as Albert of Habsburg, was the eldest son of King Rudolf I, and was made landgrave of Swabia in 1273, looking over his father's possessions in Alsace. He was then made Duke of Austria and Styria in 1283, alongside his younger brother Rudolf II. When his father died without managing to secure Albert's election as successor, he was forced to recognise the sovereignty of the elected King Adolf of Nassau.<br/><br/> Albert did not abandon his hopes for the German crown however, biding his time and working with Adolf's enemies and former allies to eventually have him deposed in 1298, with Albert elected as king in his place. He fought and slew Adolf at the Battle of Gollheim when he refused to give up power.
Rudolf I (1218-1291), also known as Rudolf of Habsburg, was the son of Count Albert IV of Habsburg, and became count after his father's death in 1239. His godfather was Emperor Frederick II, to whom he paid frequent court visits. Rudolf ended the Great Interregnum that had engulfed the Holy Roman Empire after the death of Frederick when he was elected as King of Germany in 1273.<br/><br/> Rudolf secured the recognition of the Pope by promising to launch a new crusade and renouncing all imperial rights to Rome, the papal territories and Sicily. His main opponent was King Ottokar II of Bohemia, who had refused to acknowledge Rudolf as King of Germany. War was declared against Ottokar in 1276, and he was defeated and killed in 1278 during the Battle on the Marchfeld.<br/><br/> Rudolf was ultimately not entirely successful in restoring internal peace throughout the Holy Roman Empire, lacking the power, resources and determination to truly enforce his established land peaces, with the princes largely left to their own devices. He died in 1291, establishing the powerful Habsburg dynasty but unable to ensure the succession of his son Albert as German king.
Rudolf I (1218-1291), also kown as Rudolf of Habsburg, was the son of Count Albert IV of Habsburg, and became count after his father's death in 1239. His godfather was Emperor Frederick II, to whom he paid frequent court visits. Rudolf ended the Great Interregnum that had engulfed the Holy Roman Empire after the death of Frederick when he was elected as King of Germany in 1273.<br/><br/> Rudolf secured the recognition of the Pope by promising to launch a new crusade and renouncing all imperial rights to Rome, the papal territories and Sicily. His main opponent was King Ottokar II of Bohemia, who had refused to acknowledge Rudolf as King of Germany. War was declared against Ottokar in 1276, and he was defeated and killed in 1278 during the Battle on the Marchfeld.<br/><br/> Rudolf was ultimately not entirely successful in restoring internal peace throughout the Holy Roman Empire, lacking the power, resources and determination to truly enforce his established land peaces, with the princes largely left to their own devices. He died in 1291, establishing the powerful Habsburg dynasty but unable to ensure the succession of his son Albert as German king.
Rudolf I (1218-1291), also known as Rudolf of Habsburg, was the son of Count Albert IV of Habsburg, and became count after his father's death in 1239. His godfather was Emperor Frederick II, to whom he paid frequent court visits. Rudolf ended the Great Interregnum that had engulfed the Holy Roman Empire after the death of Frederick when he was elected as King of Germany in 1273.<br/><br/> Rudolf secured the recognition of the Pope by promising to launch a new crusade and renouncing all imperial rights to Rome, the papal territories and Sicily. His main opponent was King Ottokar II of Bohemia, who had refused to acknowledge Rudolf as King of Germany. War was declared against Ottokar in 1276, and he was defeated and killed in 1278 during the Battle on the Marchfeld.<br/><br/> Rudolf was ultimately not entirely successful in restoring internal peace throughout the Holy Roman Empire, lacking the power, resources and determination to truly enforce his established land peaces, with the princes largely left to their own devices. He died in 1291, establishing the powerful Habsburg dynasty but unable to ensure the succession of his son Albert as German king.
Rudolf I (1218-1291), also kown as Rudolf of Habsburg, was the son of Count Albert IV of Habsburg, and became count after his father's death in 1239. His godfather was Emperor Frederick II, to whom he paid frequent court visits. Rudolf ended the Great Interregnum that had engulfed the Holy Roman Empire after the death of Frederick when he was elected as King of Germany in 1273.<br/><br/> Rudolf secured the recognition of the Pope by promising to launch a new crusade and renouncing all imperial rights to Rome, the papal territories and Sicily. His main opponent was King Ottokar II of Bohemia, who had refused to acknowledge Rudolf as King of Germany. War was declared against Ottokar in 1276, and he was defeated and killed in 1278 during the Battle on the Marchfeld.<br/><br/> Rudolf was ultimately not entirely successful in restoring internal peace throughout the Holy Roman Empire, lacking the power, resources and determination to truly enforce his established land peaces, with the princes largely left to their own devices. He died in 1291, establishing the powerful Habsburg dynasty but unable to ensure the succession of his son Albert as German king.
Pope Benedict XIII (2 February 1649 – 21 February 1730), born Pietro Francesco Orsini and later called Vincenzo Maria Orsini, was head of the Catholic Church and ruler of the Papal States from 29 May 1724 to his death in 1730.<br/><br/> A Dominican friar, Orsini focused on his religious responsibilities as bishop rather than on papal administration. Orsini's lack of political expertise led him to increasingly rely on an unscrupulous secretary (Cardinal Niccolò Coscia) whose financial abuses ruined the papal treasury, causing great damage to the Church in Rome.
Albert I (1255-1308), also known as Albert of Habsburg, was the eldest son of King Rudolf I, and was made landgrave of Swabia in 1273, looking over his father's possessions in Alsace. He was then made Duke of Austria and Styria in 1283, alongside his younger brother Rudolf II. When his father died without managing to secure Albert's election as successor, he was forced to recognise the sovereignty of the elected King Adolf of Nassau.<br/><br/> Albert did not abandon his hopes for the German crown however, biding his time and working with Adolf's enemies and former allies to eventually have him deposed in 1298, with Albert elected as king in his place. He fought and slew Adolf at the Battle of Gollheim when he refused to give up power.
Albert I (1255-1308), also known as Albert of Habsburg, was the eldest son of King Rudolf I, and was made landgrave of Swabia in 1273, looking over his father's possessions in Alsace. He was then made Duke of Austria and Styria in 1283, alongside his younger brother Rudolf II. When his father died without managing to secure Albert's election as successor, he was forced to recognise the sovereignty of the elected King Adolf of Nassau.<br/><br/> Albert did not abandon his hopes for the German crown however, biding his time and working with Adolf's enemies and former allies to eventually have him deposed in 1298, with Albert elected as king in his place. He fought and slew Adolf at the Battle of Gollheim when he refused to give up power.
Rudolf I (1218-1291), also known as Rudolf of Habsburg, was the son of Count Albert IV of Habsburg, and became count after his father's death in 1239. His godfather was Emperor Frederick II, to whom he paid frequent court visits. Rudolf ended the Great Interregnum that had engulfed the Holy Roman Empire after the death of Frederick when he was elected as King of Germany in 1273.<br/><br/> Rudolf secured the recognition of the Pope by promising to launch a new crusade and renouncing all imperial rights to Rome, the papal territories and Sicily. His main opponent was King Ottokar II of Bohemia, who had refused to acknowledge Rudolf as King of Germany. War was declared against Ottokar in 1276, and he was defeated and killed in 1278 during the Battle on the Marchfeld.<br/><br/> Rudolf was ultimately not entirely successful in restoring internal peace throughout the Holy Roman Empire, lacking the power, resources and determination to truly enforce his established land peaces, with the princes largely left to their own devices. He died in 1291, establishing the powerful Habsburg dynasty but unable to ensure the succession of his son Albert as German king.
Rudolf I (1218-1291), also known as Rudolf of Habsburg, was the son of Count Albert IV of Habsburg, and became count after his father's death in 1239. His godfather was Emperor Frederick II, to whom he paid frequent court visits. Rudolf ended the Great Interregnum that had engulfed the Holy Roman Empire after the death of Frederick when he was elected as King of Germany in 1273.<br/><br/> Rudolf secured the recognition of the Pope by promising to launch a new crusade and renouncing all imperial rights to Rome, the papal territories and Sicily. His main opponent was King Ottokar II of Bohemia, who had refused to acknowledge Rudolf as King of Germany. War was declared against Ottokar in 1276, and he was defeated and killed in 1278 during the Battle on the Marchfeld.<br/><br/> Rudolf was ultimately not entirely successful in restoring internal peace throughout the Holy Roman Empire, lacking the power, resources and determination to truly enforce his established land peaces, with the princes largely left to their own devices. He died in 1291, establishing the powerful Habsburg dynasty but unable to ensure the succession of his son Albert as German king.
Frederick I (1122-1190), also known as Frederick Barbarossa, was the nephew of German king Conrad III, and became Duke of Swabia in 1147. When Conrad died in 1152, he named Frederick as his successor on his deathbed, rather than his own son, Frederick IV of Swabia. He was later crowned King of Italy and Holy Roman emperor in 1155, as well as being proclaimed King of Burgundy in 1178.<br/><br/> Frederick was given the name Barbarossa ('red beard') by the northern Italian cities he attempted to conquer, waging six campaigns in all to subsume Italy, struggling constantly with the various popes and interference from the Byzantine Empire. Frederick embarked on the Third Crusade in 1189, after his sixth and final Italian expedition ended in success, a massive campaign in conjunction with the French King Philip Augustus and the English King Richard the Lionheart.<br/><br/> Before Frederick even arrived in Jerusalem however, he drowned in the Saleph river in 1190, leaving the German army in a state of chaos and ultimately leading to the dissolution of the Crusader army. He was considered an exceptionally charismatic leader and one of the Holy Roman Empire's greatest mediaeval emperors, with his contributions including the reestablishment of the 'Corpus Juris Civilis' (Roman rule of law). His qualities were considered almost superhuman by some, his ambition, longevity, organisational skills, battlefield acumen and political perspicuity all adding to his reputation.
Frederick I (1122-1190), also known as Frederick Barbarossa, was the nephew of German king Conrad III, and became Duke of Swabia in 1147. When Conrad died in 1152, he named Frederick as his successor on his deathbed, rather than his own son, Frederick IV of Swabia. He was later crowned King of Italy and Holy Roman emperor in 1155, as well as being proclaimed King of Burgundy in 1178.<br/><br/> Frederick was given the name Barbarossa ('red beard') by the northern Italian cities he attempted to conquer, waging six campaigns in all to subsume Italy, struggling constantly with the various popes and interference from the Byzantine Empire. Frederick embarked on the Third Crusade in 1189, after his sixth and final Italian expedition ended in success, a massive campaign in conjunction with the French King Philip Augustus and the English King Richard the Lionheart.<br/><br/> Before Frederick arrived in Jerusalem however, he drowned in the Saleph river in 1190, leaving the German army in a state of chaos and ultimately leading to the dissolution of the Crusader army. He was considered an exceptionally charismatic leader and one of the Holy Roman Empire's greatest mediaeval emperors, with his contributions including the reestablishment of the 'Corpus Juris Civilis' (Roman rule of law). His qualities were considered almost superhuman by some, his ambition, longevity, organisational skills, battlefield acumen and political perspicuity all adding to his reputation.
Philip (1177-1208), also known as Philip of Swabia, was the youngest son of Emperor Frederick I and younger brother of Emperor Henry VI. Philip was originally prepared for a life in the clergy, but he forsook his ecclesiastical calling in 1191 after travelling to Italy, and was made Duke of Tuscany in 1195, as well as becoming Duke of Swabia in 1196 after the death of his brother Conrad. He married Princess Irene Angelina, daughter of Byzantine emperor Isaac II Angelos in 1197.
Frederick I (1122-1190), also known as Frederick Barbarossa, was the nephew of German king Conrad III, and became Duke of Swabia in 1147. When Conrad died in 1152, he named Frederick as his successor on his deathbed, rather than his own son, Frederick IV of Swabia. He was later crowned King of Italy and Holy Roman emperor in 1155, as well as being proclaimed King of Burgundy in 1178.<br/><br/> Frederick was given the name Barbarossa ('red beard') by the northern Italian cities he attempted to conquer, waging six campaigns in all to subsume Italy, struggling constantly with the various popes and interference from the Byzantine Empire. Frederick embarked on the Third Crusade in 1189, after his sixth and final Italian expedition ended in success, a massive campaign in conjunction with the French King Philip Augustus and the English King Richard the Lionheart.<br/><br/> Before Frederick arrived in Jerusalem however, he drowned in the Saleph river in 1190, leaving the German army in a state of chaos and ultimately leading to the dissolution of the Crusader army. He was considered an exceptionally charismatic leader and one of the Holy Roman Empire's greatest mediaeval emperors, with his contributions including the reestablishment of the 'Corpus Juris Civilis' (Roman rule of law). His qualities were considered almost superhuman by some, his ambition, longevity, organisational skills, battlefield acumen and political perspicuity all adding to his reputation.
Frederick I (1122-1190), also known as Frederick Barbarossa, was the nephew of German king Conrad III, and became Duke of Swabia in 1147. When Conrad died in 1152, he named Frederick as his successor on his deathbed, rather than his own son, Frederick IV of Swabia. He was later crowned King of Italy and Holy Roman emperor in 1155, as well as being proclaimed King of Burgundy in 1178.<br/><br/> Frederick was given the name Barbarossa ('red beard') by the northern Italian cities he attempted to conquer, waging six campaigns in all to subsume Italy, struggling constantly with the various popes and interference from the Byzantine Empire. Frederick embarked on the Third Crusade in 1189, after his sixth and final Italian expedition ended in success, a massive campaign in conjunction with the French King Philip Augustus and the English King Richard the Lionheart.<br/><br/> Before Frederick arrived in Jerusalem however, he drowned in the Saleph river in 1190, leaving the German army in a state of chaos and ultimately leading to the dissolution of the Crusader army. He was considered an exceptionally charismatic leader and one of the Holy Roman Empire's greatest mediaeval emperors, with his contributions including the reestablishment of the 'Corpus Juris Civilis' (Roman rule of law). His qualities were considered almost superhuman by some, his ambition, longevity, organisational skills, battlefield acumen and political perspicuity all adding to his reputation.
Lothair III (1075-1137), sometimes numbered Lothair II, was the son of Saxon count Gebhard of Supplinburg, who joined the Saxon Rebellion against the Salian dynasty and died in 1075. Lothair was born posthumously and worked his way up the political ladder, purchasing lands and making marriage alliances throughout Saxony. In exchange for aiding Henry V in overthrowing his father, Emperor Henry IV, Lothair was made Duke of Saxony in 1106. He revolted against Henry V afterwards, but was defeated and pardoned in 1112.<br/><br/> Lothair subsequently rose against the emperor again in 1115, joining rebelling Saxon forces that defeated the emperor in various battles in Cologne. When Henry died in 1125, Lothair was elected as King of Germany by the nobility, thinking him easy to manipulate. Duke Frederick II, a member of the rising Hohenstaufen house, had aspirations to become Holy Roman emperor and waged a civil war against Lothair but was eventually defeated in 1134.<br/><br/> Lothair waged a partially successful campaign against King Roger II of Sicily in 1136, but the revolt of his German troops, refusing to campaign in the hot summer, prevented him from a complete conquest of Sicily. Lothair died while crossing the Alps in 1137. He was the first and last member of the Supplinburg dynasty, and the crown went to his former enemies, the Hohenstaufens, after his death, dashing his hopes of a Welf hereditary monachy.
Henry III (1016-1056), also known as Henry the Black and Henry the Pious, was the eldest son of Emperor Conrad II and a member of the Salian Dynasty. He was elected and crowned as King of Germany in 1028, after his father became Holy Roman Emperor. In 1026, his father made him Duke of Bavaria.<br/><br/> Henry would also became Duke of Swabia and King of Burgundy ten years later in 1038, and when his father died in 1039, he became sole ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, though was not crowned as emperor until 1046.
Henry III (1016-1056), also known as Henry the Black and Henry the Pious, was the eldest son of Emperor Conrad II and a member of the Salian Dynasty. He was elected and crowned as King of Germany in 1028, after his father became Holy Roman Emperor. In 1026, his father made him Duke of Bavaria.<br/><br/> Henry would also became Duke of Swabia and King of Burgundy ten years later in 1038, and when his father died in 1039, he became sole ruler of the Holy Roman Empire, though was not crowned as emperor until 1046.
Henry II (974-1024), also known as Henry IV and Saint Henry, was the son of Henry II, Duke of Bavaria and great-grandson of King Henry I, therefore making him part of the Bavarian branch of the Ottonian dynasty. Due to his father's rebellion against the two previous emperors, Henry was often in exile and became close with the Church. He succeeded his father as Duke of Bavaria in 995, taking the name Henry IV.<br/><br/> As Henry was returning home to claim his lands however, Emperor Otto III died of fever with no heir to succeed him. Political chaos gripped the Holy Roman Empire, and Henry defeated several other claimants to become King of Germany in 1002, and King of Italy in 1004. He subsumed the Duchy of Bohemia into the Holy Roman Empire, and fought a series of wars against Poland. He also led a series of expeditions into Italy to ensure Imperial dominance against secessionist forces and the Byzantine Empire. He was eventually crowned as Holy Roman Emperor in 1014.<br/><br/> Henry II's rule was centralised, power consolidated in his hands through personal and political ties with the Catholic Church, which would lead to his canonisation a century later in 1146, the only German monarch to become a saint. Henry eventually died in 1024, leaving no children behind and ending the Ottonian dynasty.
Henry II (974-1024), also known as Henry IV and Saint Henry, was the son of Henry II, Duke of Bavaria and great-grandson of King Henry I, therefore making him part of the Bavarian branch of the Ottonian dynasty. Due to his father's rebellion against the two previous emperors, Henry was often in exile and became close with the Church. He succeeded his father as Duke of Bavaria in 995, taking the name Henry IV.<br/><br/> As Henry was returning home to claim his lands however, Emperor Otto III died of fever with no heir to succeed him. Political chaos gripped the Holy Roman Empire, and Henry defeated several other claimants to become King of Germany in 1002, and King of Italy in 1004. He subsumed the Duchy of Bohemia into the Holy Roman Empire, and fought a series of wars against Poland. He also led a series of expeditions into Italy to ensure Imperial dominance against secessionist forces and the Byzantine Empire. He was eventually crowned as Holy Roman Emperor in 1014.<br/><br/> Henry II's rule was centralised, power consolidated in his hands through personal and political ties with the Catholic Church, which would lead to his canonisation a century later in 1146, the only German monarch to become a saint. Henry eventually died in 1024, leaving no children behind and ending the Ottonian dynasty.
Henry II (974-1024), also known as Henry IV and Saint Henry, was the son of Henry II, Duke of Bavaria and great-grandson of King Henry I, therefore making him part of the Bavarian branch of the Ottonian dynasty. Due to his father's rebellion against the two previous emperors, Henry was often in exile and became close with the Church. He succeeded his father as Duke of Bavaria in 995, taking the name Henry IV.<br/><br/> As Henry was returning home to claim his lands however, Emperor Otto III died of fever with no heir to succeed him. Political chaos gripped the Holy Roman Empire, and Henry defeated several other claimants to become King of Germany in 1002, and King of Italy in 1004. He subsumed the Duchy of Bohemia into the Holy Roman Empire, and fought a series of wars against Poland. He also led a series of expeditions into Italy to ensure Imperial dominance against secessionist forces and the Byzantine Empire. He was eventually crowned as Holy Roman Emperor in 1014.<br/><br/> Henry II's rule was centralised, power consolidated in his hands through personal and political ties with the Catholic Church, which would lead to his canonisation a century later in 1146, the only German monarch to become a saint. Henry eventually died in 1024, leaving no children behind and ending the Ottonian dynasty.
Henry II (974-1024), also known as Henry IV and Saint Henry, was the son of Henry II, Duke of Bavaria and great-grandson of King Henry I, therefore making him part of the Bavarian branch of the Ottonian dynasty. Due to his father's rebellion against the two previous emperors, Henry was often in exile and became close with the Church. He succeeded his father as Duke of Bavaria in 995, taking the name Henry IV.<br/><br/> As Henry was returning home to claim his lands however, Emperor Otto III died of fever with no heir to succeed him. Political chaos gripped the Holy Roman Empire, and Henry defeated several other claimants to become King of Germany in 1002, and King of Italy in 1004. He subsumed the Duchy of Bohemia into the Holy Roman Empire, and fought a series of wars against Poland. He also led a series of expeditions into Italy to ensure Imperial dominance against secessionist forces and the Byzantine Empire. He was eventually crowned as Holy Roman Emperor in 1014.<br/><br/> Henry II's rule was centralised, power consolidated in his hands through personal and political ties with the Catholic Church, which would lead to his canonisation a century later in 1146, the only German monarch to become a saint. Henry eventually died in 1024, leaving no children behind and ending the Ottonian dynasty.
Henry II (974-1024), also known as Henry IV and Saint Henry, was the son of Henry II, Duke of Bavaria and great-grandson of King Henry I, therefore making him part of the Bavarian branch of the Ottonian dynasty. Due to his father's rebellion against the two previous emperors, Henry was often in exile and became close with the Church. He succeeded his father as Duke of Bavaria in 995, taking the name Henry IV.<br/><br/> As Henry was returning home to claim his lands however, Emperor Otto III died of fever with no heir to succeed him. Political chaos gripped the Holy Roman Empire, and Henry defeated several other claimants to become King of Germany in 1002, and King of Italy in 1004. He subsumed the Duchy of Bohemia into the Holy Roman Empire, and fought a series of wars against Poland. He also led a series of expeditions into Italy to ensure Imperial dominance against secessionist forces and the Byzantine Empire. He was eventually crowned as Holy Roman Emperor in 1014.<br/><br/> Henry II's rule was centralised, power consolidated in his hands through personal and political ties with the Catholic Church, which would lead to his canonisation a century later in 1146, the only German monarch to become a saint. Henry eventually died in 1024, leaving no children behind and ending the Ottonian dynasty.
Otto I (912-973), also known as Otto the Great, was the oldest son of King Henry I and inherited the Duchy of Saxony as well as kingship of East Francia, now also increasingly known as Germany, when his father died in 936. He unified the various duchies into one single kingdom, ensuring more power remained in the king's hands rather than that of the aristocracy, placing members of his family into all the duchies to reduce the power of the dukes, who had previously been co-equals with the king.
Otto I (912-973), also known as Otto the Great, was the oldest son of King Henry I and inherited the Duchy of Saxony as well as kingship of East Francia, now also increasingly known as Germany, when his father died in 936. He unified the various duchies into one single kingdom, ensuring more power remained in the king's hands rather than that of the aristocracy, placing members of his family into all the duchies to reduce the power of the dukes, who had previously been co-equals with the king.
Henry I (876-936), also known as Henry the Fowler, was son of Otto the Illustrious, Duke of Saxony, and became duke himself in 912. He was of Saxon descent, and often was in conflict with his southern neighbours. He became king of East Francia in 919 after King Cornad I's death, named as the king's successor on his deathbed, becoming the first non-Frankish king.<br/><br/> Henry's election to king had not been supported by all the dukes, so he warred to bring them in line, especially against Duke Arnulf of Bavaria, who he finally defeated in 921 and forced to submit. He was too weak to impose absolutist rule, and instead regarded East Francia as a confederation of stem duchies, administering his power through counts and allowing the dukes large internal autonomy. He warred against the Magyars, Slavs and Danes, as well as against West Francia over Lotharingia.<br/><br/> Henry died in 936, having prevented collapse of royal power in East Francia, and leaving a much stronger kingdom for his successor Otto I. He established the Ottonian Dynasty and is generally considered the founder and first king of the mediaeval German state.
Conrad I (881-918), also known as Conrad of Germany and Conrad the Younger, was the son of Duke Conrad of Thuringia and a maternal relative of Emperor Arnulf of Carinthia. After conflict with the rival Babenbergian dukes led to the death of his father, Conrad became duke of Franconia.<br/><br/> When King Louis the Child died in 911, Conrad became the first non-Carolingian king of East Francia. Conrad soon found that, since he had been a duke himself, establishing his authority over the dukes became a rather difficult proposition, with the various dukes either making great demands of him or rebelling against his rule at various times.<br/><br/> It was while trying to put down one of his errant dukes, Duke Arnulf of Bavaria, that Conrad received a severe injury which would lead to his death in December 918. On his deathbed Conrad managed to persuade his younger brother Eberhard of Franconia to give the crown to Duke Henry the Fowler of Saxony, believing him to be the only man who could hold East Francia together.
The Jade Emperor is one of the most important deities in traditional Chinese culture and religion and in Taoism. The Jade Emperor, known by many other names such as Heavenly Grandfather, Heavenly Duke, Jade Lord of of the Highest Emperor and Great Emperor of Jade, is considered the ruler of heaven and a manifestation of the first god.<br/><br/> In Taoist theology, he was originally known as Yuhuang, and was assistant to the first supreme administrator of Heaven, Yuanshi Tianzun. He took over after Yuanshi Tianzun stepped down, becoming overseer of both Heaven and Earth. In other origin stories, he was originally the crown prince of the kingdom of Pure Felicity and Majestic Heavenly Lights and Ornaments, and was kind and intelligent even in his youth. He was said to be benevolent and respectful to both men and creatures, and made sure everyone in the kingdom found peace and contentment after he ascended to the throne. He eventually left to cultivate Tao, and became Jade Emperor after over one hundred million years of cultivation and meditation.<br/><br/> The Jade Emperor plays important roles in various Chinese folk tales and stories such as 'Journey to the West', and he is still worshipped in Taoist temples. Temples to the Jade Emperor can be found across China, Taiwan and Hong Kong, with celebrations on his 'birthday' every ninth day of the first lunar month.
Jiang Wenhuan was a character from the classic Ming Dynasty novel 'Fengshen Yanyi'. He was the son of Jiang Huanchu, the East Grand Duke of the Shang Dynasty, and brother to Queen Jiang, King Zhou's original wife, and Jiang Huan, the traitor and servant of devious Fei Zhong.<br/><br/> After Jiang Huan plotted with Fei Zhong to kill his own sister, Queen Jiang, and was in turn killed by the Crown Prince, Jiang Huanchu would angrily confront Kign Zhou of Shang about the false torture and murder of his daughter. King Zhou in turn ordered the execution of Jiang Huanchu, at the urging of Fei Zhong, as well as that of two more of the four Grand Dukes. Hearing of his father's execution, Jiang Wenhuan rose up against King Zhou of Shang.
Ferdinando I de' Medici (30 July 1549 – 17 February 1609) was Grand Duke of Tuscany from 1587 to 1609, having succeeded his older brother Francesco I.
Philip the Good (French: Philippe le Bon, Dutch: Filips de Goede; 31 July 1396 – 15 June 1467) was Duke of Burgundy as Philip III from 1419 until his death. During his reign Burgundy reached the height of its prosperity and prestige and became a leading center of the arts. Philip is known in history for his administrative reforms, patronage of Flemish artists such as Jan van Eyck, of Franco-Flemish composers such as Gilles Binchois, and the capture of Joan of Arc.<br/><br/> During his reign he alternated between English and French alliances in an attempt to improve his dynasty's position. Moreover, as ruler of Flanders, Brabant, Limburg, Artois, Hainaut, Holland, Zeeland, Friesland and Namur, he played an important role in the history of the Low Countries.<br/><br/> Isabella of Portugal (21 February 1397 – 17 December 1471) was Duchess of Burgundy as the third wife of Duke Philip the Good. Born a Portuguese infanta of the House of Aviz, Isabella was the only surviving daughter of King John I of Portugal and his wife Philippa of Lancaster.<br/><br/> Her son by Philip was Charles the Bold, the last Valois Duke of Burgundy. Isabella was the regent of the Burgundian Low Countries during the absence of her spouse in 1432 and in 1441–1443. She served as her husband's representative in negotiations with England regarding trade relations in 1439 and those with the rebellious cities of Holland in 1444.
Sao Nang Hearn Kham, Daw Hearn Kham, (b. 26 May 1916 in Hsenwi d. 17 January 2003 in Canada) was the Mahadevi of Yawnghwe one of the most important Shan States. Her husband Sao Shwe Thaik was the 23d and last Saopha of Yawnghwe and became the first President of Burma. She had five children with him.<br/><br/> She was born as Hearn Kham on 26 May 1916 in Hsenwi, Northern Shan State, as the daughter of 65th Saopha Hkun Hsang Ton Hong of North Hsenwi. Her brother would be the 66th and last saopha of the state.<br/><br/> Together with her husband she participated in the 1946 - 1947 Pang Long Agreement. In post-independence Burma she became a M.P. for the constituency of Hsenwi between 1956 and 1960 and became known for her active role within the parliament.<br/><br/> Her husband was arrested in the Burmese coup d'état in March 1962 by the Revolutionary Council headed by General Ne Win and one of her sons, who was 17 at that time, was killed in the military coup, apparently the only casualty on the day of the disturbances. She fled with her family to Thailand in April 1962 and her husband died in prison in November the same year. While in exile she participated in the independence struggle of the Shan State. In 1964 Sao Nang Hearn Kham, together with her son Chao-Tzang Yawnghwe, helped to form the Shan State War Council (SSWC) and the Shan State Army (SSA), becoming Chairwoman of the SSWC.<br/><br/> Sao Nang Hearn Kham died on the 17th January 2003 in exile in Canada at the age of 86. Hso Khan Pha, one of her five children took up her cause of fighting for the liberation of the Shan people.
Rudolf I (1218-1291), also known as Rudolf of Habsburg, was the son of Count Albert IV of Habsburg, and became count after his father's death in 1239. His godfather was Emperor Frederick II, to whom he paid frequent court visits. Rudolf ended the Great Interregnum that had engulfed the Holy Roman Empire after the death of Frederick when he was elected as King of Germany in 1273.<br/><br/> Rudolf secured the recognition of the Pope by promising to launch a new crusade and renouncing all imperial rights to Rome, the papal territories and Sicily. His main opponent was King Ottokar II of Bohemia, who had refused to acknowledge Rudolf as King of Germany. War was declared against Ottokar in 1276, and he was defeated and killed in 1278 during the Battle on the Marchfeld.<br/><br/> Rudolf was ultimately not entirely successful in restoring internal peace throughout the Holy Roman Empire, lacking the power, resources and determination to truly enforce his established land peaces, with the princes largely left to their own devices. He died in 1291, establishing the powerful Habsburg dynasty but unable to ensure the succession of his son Albert as German king.
The 1st Horse (Skinner's Horse) is a cavalry regiment of the Indian Army, which served in the British Indian Army before independence. The regiment was raised in 1803 as Skinner’s Horse by James Skinner ('Sikander Sahib') as an irregular cavalry regiment in the service of the East India Company. It was later renamed the 1st Bengal Lancers. The regiment became (and remains) one of the seniormost cavalry regiments of the Armoured Corps of the Indian Army.<br/><br/> A second regiment of Indian Cavalry was raised by Colonel James Skinner in 1814, which became the 3rd Skinner's Horse. On the reduction of the Indian Army in 1922, 1st and 3rd Regiments were amalgamated and became Skinner's Horse (1st Duke of York's Own Cavalry) and later the 1st Duke of York's Own Lancers (Skinner's Horse) until Indian independence.
Henry I (876-936), also known as Henry the Fowler, was son of Otto the Illustrious, Duke of Saxony, and became duke himself in 912. He was of Saxon descent, and often was in conflict with his southern neighbours. He became king of East Francia in 919 after King Cornad I's death, named as the king's successor on his deathbed, becoming the first non-Frankish king.<br/><br/> Henry's election to king had not been supported by all the dukes, so he warred to bring them in line, especially against Duke Arnulf of Bavaria, who he finally defeated in 921 and forced to submit. He was too weak to impose absolutist rule, and instead regarded East Francia as a confederation of stem duchies, administering his power through counts and allowing the dukes large internal autonomy. He warred against the Magyars, Slavs and Danes, as well as against West Francia over Lotharingia.<br/><br/> Henry died in 936, having prevented collapse of royal power in East Francia, and leaving a much stronger kingdom for his successor Otto I. He established the Ottonian Dynasty and is generally considered the founder and first king of the mediaeval German state.
The Zhou Bi Suan Jing, or Chou Pei Suan Ching, is one of the oldest Chinese mathematical texts. 'Zhou' refers to the ancient Zhou dynasty (c. 1046 - 256 BCE) 'Bi' refers to the gnomon of a sundial.<br/><br/> The study is an anonymous collection of 246 problems encountered by the Duke of Zhou and his astronomer and mathematician, Shang Gao. Each question has stated their numerical answer and corresponding arithmetic algorithm. The <i>Zhoubi suanjing</i> contains one of the first recorded proofs of the Pythagorean Theorem.
Charles V (24 February 1500 – 21 September 1558) was ruler of both the Holy Roman Empire from 1519 and the Spanish Empire (as Charles I of Spain) from 1516, as well as of the lands of the former Duchy of Burgundy from 1506. He stepped down from these and other positions by a series of abdications between 1554 and 1556.<br/><br/> Through inheritance, Charles brought together under his rule extensive territories in western, central, and southern Europe, and the Spanish viceroyalties in the Americas and Asia. As a result, his domains spanned nearly 4 million square kilometres (1.5 million square miles), and were the first to be described as 'the empire on which the sun never sets'.
Otto I (912-973), also known as Otto the Great, was the oldest son of King Henry I and inherited the Duchy of Saxony as well as kingship of East Francia, now also increasingly known as Germany, when his father died in 936. He unified the various duchies into one single kingdom, ensuring more power remained in the king's hands rather than that of the aristocracy, placing members of his family into all the duchies to reduce the power of the dukes, who had previously been co-equals with the king.
Philip the Good (French: Philippe le Bon, Dutch: Filips de Goede; 31 July 1396 – 15 June 1467) was Duke of Burgundy as Philip III from 1419 until his death. During his reign Burgundy reached the height of its prosperity and prestige and became a leading center of the arts. Philip is known in history for his administrative reforms, patronage of Flemish artists such as Jan van Eyck, of Franco-Flemish composers such as Gilles Binchois, and the capture of Joan of Arc.<br/><br/> During his reign he alternated between English and French alliances in an attempt to improve his dynasty's position. Moreover, as ruler of Flanders, Brabant, Limburg, Artois, Hainaut, Holland, Zeeland, Friesland and Namur, he played an important role in the history of the Low Countries.
Detail of a portrait of a young Charles V (1500-1558), 30th Holy Roman emperor, oil on wood painting by Bernhard Strigel (1461-1528), c. 1516.<br/><br/> Charles V (24 February 1500 – 21 September 1558) was ruler of both the Holy Roman Empire from 1519 and the Spanish Empire (as Charles I of Spain) from 1516, as well as of the lands of the former Duchy of Burgundy from 1506. He stepped down from these and other positions by a series of abdications between 1554 and 1556.
Afonso de Albuquerque (1453—1515) was a Portuguese admiral whose military and administrative accomplishments as second governor of Portuguese India established the Portuguese colonial empire in the Indian Ocean. He is generally considered a military genius.<br/><br/> Albuquerque attempted to close all Indian Ocean naval routes to the Atlantic, Red Sea, Persian Gulf, and to the Pacific, and was responsible for building numerous fortresses to defend key strategic positions and establishing a net of diplomatic relations.<br/><br/> Shortly before his death he was awarded viceroy and 'Duke of Goa' by king Manuel I of Portugal, becoming the first Portuguese duke not from the royal family, and the first Portuguese title landed overseas. He was known as ‘The Terrible’, ‘The Great’, ‘The Caesar of the East’, ‘Lion of the Seas’ and ‘The Portuguese Mars’.<br/><br/> There is no doubting Albuquerque’s ruthless ambition. He suggested diverting the course of the Nile River to render Egypt barren. And he even planned to steal the body of the Prophet Muhammad, and hold it for ransom until all Muslims had left the Holy Land.
Frederick I Barbarossa (1122 – 10 June 1190) was a German Holy Roman Emperor. He was elected King of Germany at Frankfurt on 4 March 1152 and crowned in Aachen on 9 March 1152. He became King of Italy in 1155 and was finally crowned Roman Emperor by Pope Adrian IV on 18 June 1155.<br/><br/> Two years later, the term 'sacrum' (i.e. 'holy') first appeared in a document in connection with his Empire. He was then also formally crowned King of Burgundy at Arles on 30 June 1178. He got the name Barbarossa from the northern Italian cities he attempted to rule. Barbarossa is 'red beard' in Italian—a mark of both their fear and respect. In German, he was known as Kaiser Rotbart which has the same meaning.
Grand Duke Michael Alexandrovich of Russia (4 December 1878 – 13 June 1918) was the youngest son of Emperor Alexander III of Russia.<br/><br/> At the time of his birth, his paternal grandfather (Alexander II of Russia) was still the reigning Emperor of All the Russias. Michael was fourth-in-line to the throne following his father and elder brothers Nicholas and George. After the assassination of his grandfather in 1881, he became third-in-line, and in 1894 after the death of his father, second-in-line. George died in 1899, leaving Michael as heir-presumptive to the throne.<br/><br/> The birth of Nicholas's son Alexei in 1904 temporarily moved Michael back to second-in-line, but Alexei inherited the blood-clotting disorder haemophilia and was not expected to live. Michael caused a commotion at the imperial court when he took Natalia Sergeyevna Wulfert, a married woman, as a lover. Nicholas sent Michael to Orel, to avoid scandal, but this did not stop Michael, who travelled frequently to see his mistress. After the couple's only child, George, was born in 1910, Michael brought Natalia to St. Petersburg, where she was shunned by society. In 1912, Michael shocked Nicholas by marrying Natalia, in the hope that he would be removed from the line of succession. Michael and Natalia left Russia to exile abroad in France, Switzerland and England.<br/><br/> After the outbreak of World War I, Michael returned to Russia, assuming command of a cavalry regiment. When Nicholas abdicated on 15 March 1917, Michael was named as his successor instead of Alexei. Michael, however, deferred acceptance of the throne until ratification by an elected assembly. He was never confirmed as Emperor, and following the Russian Revolution of 1917, he was imprisoned and murdered.
Charles V (24 February 1500 – 21 September 1558) was ruler of both the Holy Roman Empire from 1519 and the Spanish Empire (as Charles I of Spain) from 1516, as well as of the lands of the former Duchy of Burgundy from 1506. He stepped down from these and other positions by a series of abdications between 1554 and 1556.<br/><br/> Through inheritance, Charles brought together under his rule extensive territories in western, central, and southern Europe, and the Spanish viceroyalties in the Americas and Asia. As a result, his domains spanned nearly 4 million square kilometres (1.5 million square miles), and were the first to be described as 'the empire on which the sun never sets'.