Donald Trump declared winner
Here are the historical events that occurred on October 13th:
1. 54 AD: Roman Emperor Claudius Dies
Roman Emperor Claudius dies, and Nero succeeds him. Claudius expanded Rome's empire, conquering Britain and reforming government.
2. 1307: Arrest of Knights Templar
King Philip IV of France orders the arrest of hundreds of Knights Templar, marking the beginning of the end of the Templar Order.
3. 1775: Establishment of Continental Navy
The United States Continental Congress orders the establishment of the Continental Navy, precursor to the United States Navy.
4. 1885: First Gasoline-Powered Automobile Patent
George B. Selden patents the first gasoline-powered automobile.
5. 1923: Ankara Becomes Turkey's Capital
Ankara replaces Istanbul as the capital of Turkey.
6. 1972: Aeroflot Il-62 Crash
An Aeroflot Il-62 crashes near Moscow, killing 176.
FOCUS:
Roman Emperor Claudius Dies
Arrest of Knights Templar
King Philip IV of France
October 13, 54 AD: Roman Emperor Claudius Dies
Claudius was born on August 10, 10 BC, in Lugdunum (modern-day Lyon, France), to Drusus, a popular Roman general, and Antonia Minor. Despite suffering from a limp and other physical disabilities, which led to his exclusion from public life, Claudius proved to be an able administrator and scholar. He became Emperor in 41 AD after the assassination of Caligula.
During his reign, Claudius expanded Rome's empire, conquering Britain in 43 AD, Lycia in 43 AD, and Thrace in 46 AD. He implemented numerous reforms, including the expansion of Roman citizenship to more provinces, establishment of a permanent police force and fire brigade, construction of public works such as roads, aqueducts, and canals, and reorganization of the Roman Senate and administrative structures.
Claudius's reign was marked by significant achievements, including the annexation of Britain, which brought wealth and resources to Rome. He also promoted public games and festivals, revitalizing traditional Roman culture.
However, Claudius's personal life was tumultuous. He married four times, with his fourth wife, Agrippina the Younger, playing a significant role in his downfall. Agrippina sought to secure the throne for her son, Nero.
Claudius died on October 13, 54 AD. The official cause of death was poisoning, allegedly orchestrated by Agrippina. Nero succeeded Claudius at just 17 years old, marking the beginning of a tumultuous reign.
Nero's rule was marked by tyranny, extravagance, and artistic pursuits. He implemented policies to promote Greek culture and invested heavily in public works. However, his reign was also characterized by brutal suppression of opposition, leading to his eventual downfall.
Nero's reign ended with his suicide in 68 AD, marking the end of the Julio-Claudian dynasty.
October 13, 1307: Arrest of Knights Templar
The Knights Templar were a Christian military order founded in 1118 by Hugh de Payens. Their primary mission was to protect pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. Over time, the Templars became a powerful and wealthy organization through donations and grants from European monarchs, control of trade routes and financial networks, and military victories in the Crusades.
However, by the late 13th century, the Templars had accumulated significant wealth and power, attracting the attention of King Philip IV of France. Philip IV, deeply indebted to the Templars, sought to eliminate the order and seize their assets.
On October 13, 1307, Philip IV ordered the arrest of hundreds of Templars across France. Many were subjected to torture, forced confessions, and trials. The charges against the Templars included heresy, blasphemy, and sodomy.
The persecution of the Templars was widespread, with arrests and trials taking place across Europe. In 1314, the Grand Master of the Templars, Jacques de Molay, was burned at the stake.
Pope Clement V dissolved the Knights Templar Order in 1312, marking the end of the medieval military orders and the rise of royal authority over the Church. The legacy of the Templars continues to fascinate historians and spark debate.