What Happened in 1223

Major Events

  • May 31 Battle of the Kalka River: Mongol force led by Jebei and Subedei defeat a Russian alliance, after feigning their retreat, leading to the death of 20,000 Russians
  • Jul 14 Louis VIII becomes King of France upon the death of his father, Philip II
  • Dec 25 St Francis of Assisi assembles 1st Nativity scene (Greccio, Italy)

Who Died in 1223

  • Mar 8 Wincenty KadÅ‚ubek, Polish chronicler (b. 1161)
  • Mar 25 Afonso II, 3rd King of Portugal (1211-23), dies at 36
  • Jul 14 King Philip II of France (1180-1223), dies at 57


World Leaders in 1223