Exploring the rich history of the 5th to 15th century!
Pope Benedict IX was born around 1012 in Rome, Italy. Named Teofilatto, the future pope was a member of the influential Tusculani family. As the nephew of two previous popes, Benedict VIII and John XIX, the Tusculani put young Teofilatto on the path to a church career. In 1032, Teofilatto’s father, Count Alberic III of Tusculum, bribed the clergy to […]
Pope Stephen VI was born at an unknown date in Rome, Italy. The son of a priest named John, Stephen’s future with the church was decided at birth. As the future pope got older, he became a member of the clergy. Pope Formosus consecrated Stephen as the Bishop of Anagni at some point, although it is debated whether he wanted […]
Pope John XII was born Ottaviano around 937 in Rome, Italy. The only son of the cunning duke, Alberic II of Spoleto, Ottaviano lived a luxurious life. During this time, Alberic ruled Rome as its de facto leader. Having overthrown his mother in his seizure of power, Alberic sought to use his son to further his ambitions. Seeking to expand […]
Edward of Portugal was born on October 30, 1391, to King John I and Queen Philippa of Lancaster. The couple’s second son, Prince Edward, became heir after the death of his elder brother, Afonso, in 1400. As a second-generation member of the fledgling Aviz dynasty, an emphasis was placed on educating Edward and preparing him to become king. To this […]
Alexander I of Scotland was born around 1078 to King Malcolm III and Queen Margaret. The couple’s fifth son, Alexander, was named in honor of Pope Alexander II. Four years before his birth, Alexander’s older half-brother, Duncan, was sent to England as a hostage for William I in 1074. Scotland and England had a poor relationship at the time, partly […]