Discussion: Monarchs of the 15th Century

Overview

The 15th century, spanning the years 1401 to 1500, was a period of significant change in the world of monarchy. This era, often referred to as the Late Middle Ages, saw the rise and fall of several notable monarchs across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. These rulers, through their actions and policies, played a crucial role in shaping the course of history. This article aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the monarchs of the 15th century, their reigns, and their impacts on their respective societies and the world at large.

A depiction of a 15th-century royal court, with a king and queen seated on thrones, surrounded by courtiers.

Europe

England

The 15th century in England was marked by the tumultuous period known as the Wars of the Roses. This civil war for control of the throne was primarily fought between two rival branches of the royal House of Plantagenet: the House of Lancaster, represented by a red rose, and the House of York, represented by a white rose.

The century began with the reign of Henry IV (r. 1399-1413), who had seized the throne from his cousin Richard II. Henry's reign was marked by ongoing rebellion and conflict, both with the nobility and with Wales, where the charismatic leader Owain Glyndŵr led a major revolt.

France

In France, the 15th century was dominated by the latter part of the Hundred Years' War, a prolonged conflict with England. The century began with the reign of Charles VI (r. 1380-1422), also known as Charles the Mad. His reign was marked by periods of mental illness, during which the affairs of the kingdom were managed by his relatives and other nobles.

Holy Roman Empire

The Holy Roman Empire, a multi-ethnic complex of territories in central Europe, saw several emperors during the 15th century. The century began under the rule of Rupert of the Palatinate (r. 1400-1410), who was elected by the prince-electors of the empire after the deposition of Wenceslaus IV.

Asia

China

The 15th century in China was marked by the rule of the Ming dynasty, one of the greatest eras of orderly government and social stability in human history. The dynasty was founded by Zhu Yuanzhang, who became known as the Hongwu Emperor.

Japan

In Japan, the 15th century was part of the Muromachi period, a time of civil war and political upheaval, but also of great cultural development. The shogunate was held by the Ashikaga clan, but real power often lay with influential warlords, known as daimyōs.

Africa

Songhai Empire

In West Africa, the 15th century saw the rise of the Songhai Empire, one of the largest and most powerful empires in African history. The empire reached its zenith under the rule of Sonni Ali and Askia Mohammad I, who expanded its territory and influence significantly.

Ethiopia

In East Africa, the Solomonic dynasty ruled the Ethiopian Empire. This dynasty claimed descent from the biblical King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.

Americas

In the Americas, the 15th century was marked by the advanced civilizations of the Inca and Aztec Empires. The Inca Empire, located in present-day Peru, was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America. The Aztec Empire, located in modern-day Mexico, was known for its complex social, political, religious and commercial mechanisms.