History Trivia

March 31, 307 After divorcing his wife Minervina, Constantine married Fausta, the daughter of the retired Roman Emperor Maximian. 1084 Henry VI of Germany, after deposing Pope Gregory VII, was crowned Holy Roman Emperor by Gregory's successor, Pope Clement III. 1146 Bernard of Clairvaux preached his famous sermon in a field at Vézelay, urging the necessity of a Second Crusade. Louis VII was present, and joined the Crusade. 1492 Queen Isabella of Castile issued the Alhambra decree, ordering her 150,000 Jewish subjects to convert to Christianity or face expulsion. 1547 King Francis I died. 1596 René Descartes was born. French scientist, mathematician and philosopher, Descartes was one of the most influential thinkers in history, and is best known for his statement: "I think; therefore, I am." 1657 Parliament offered Oliver Cromwell the title of king in the 'Humble Petition and Advice'. He rejected it.