Years That Changed History: 1215

Beginning the survey of the year 1215 with some context; Europe in the 13th century experiences a period of climate warming that leads to a population boom; in Asia, the Mongols find their ages-old way of life threatened by these same changes.

What history buffs know about the Magna Carta; pondering what is in the document; why it is created in the first place; discovering the narrowly focused origins of a short-lived document that seems, at the time, like a minor footnote in history.

Investigating some of the Magna Carta's most interesting clauses; the document is meant to appease a group of nobles; the settlement is a mix of grand pronouncements and specific requests, including that widows shall not be forced to remarry.

Although the Magna Carta is revered today, it could easily be forgotten; shortly after it is accepted by both king and nobles, the pope annuls it; that is not the end of the story; tracing the Magna Carta's story across the ages.

If one asks anyone in 1215 what the most important event of the year is, most people in Europe will cite the Fourth Lateran Council; Professor Armstrong surveys the history of Christianity; the events leading up to this pivotal ecclesiastical event.

Delving into the canons that are decreed at the Fourth Lateran Council; what Church leaders are trying to accomplish; from heresies to marriage to the priesthood, the Fourth Lateran Council takes on issues that affect nearly everyone in Europe.