One of most powerful political organisations in the late Middle Ages. Their ranks were filled by the richest aristocratic families of Europe. Formed in Jerusalem in the 11th Century to provide hospital care and protection for Christian pilgrims visiting the Holy Land. Still exist today though split into many Orders.
Knights Hospitallers
Fact of the Day
Henry the Fowler, king of East Francia and founder of the Ottonian dynasty of German rulers, once traded a large part of Swabia (modern Switzerland and Alsace) for a spear.
Quote of the Day
"The thing that impresses me most about America is the way parents obey their children.
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~ Edward VIII/Duke of Windsor
On This Day
1787 The 'First Fleet' of 11 ships carrying convicts to Australia left England.
1888 Slavery was abolished in Brazil.