The pivotal year 1314
One of the worst famines in European history struck northern Europe in the year 1314. Caused by a series of cold wet years and exacerbated by political turmoil, the famine which began in 1314 lasted for three years and killed off between ten and fifteen percent of the population. After effects of this famine were still being felt in northern European countries well into the 1320′s. At the same time, the year 1314 saw some significant political events which were to have long range impact on European history.
Perhaps the most famous event of the year 1314 was the battle of Bannockburn, where a small force of Scots led by Robert Bruce defeated a much larger English army under Edward II. Although full recognition of Scottish independence was not achieved until more than ten years later, the battle of Bannockburn is considered to be the significant turning point in the Scottish battle for independence from England.
Across the Channel, Phillip IV, the last strong Capet ruler of France, died in the year 1314.
Phillip had spent his reign, much like Edward II of England, consolidating the power of the monarchy. Over nearly thirty years, Phillip expelled the Jews from France (and seized their assets), levied taxes on the clergy, and seized control of the papacy, moving it from Rome to Avignon. Phillip also disbanded the once powerful Order of Knights Templar. In the year 1314, Phillip had the last Master of the Templars, Jacques de Molay, burned at the stake.
According to legend, de Molay cursed Phillip from the flames, and Phillip died a few months later. The Pope whom Phillip had created and controlled, Clement V, also died in the year 1314.
In the same year, Haakon V of Norway moved his capital to Oslo, where it has remained ever since, and Louis IV was elected Holy Roman Emperor.
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