1181

The year 1181 was a common year that began on a Thursday according to the Julian calendar. In the Holy Roman Empire, Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa continued his reign. His son, Henry VI, was crowned King of the Romans in this year, solidifying the succession. In England, King Henry II was dealing with the aftermath of the rebellion by his sons and the ongoing tensions with France.

In the Byzantine Empire, Emperor Manuel I Komnenos died in September, marking the end of the Komnenian dynasty's strong rule. His son, Alexios II Komnenos, ascended to the throne, but his reign was short-lived and marked by instability. The Third Crusade was still in its planning stages, though significant military actions would not commence for several years.

In the Islamic world, the Ayyubid dynasty, founded by Saladin, continued to consolidate its power. Saladin was actively engaged in consolidating his control over Egypt and expanding his influence in the Levant. The Zengid dynasty, previously a major power in Syria, was gradually being absorbed by Saladin's growing empire. Religious and cultural developments continued across various regions, with monastic orders and scholarly pursuits active in Europe and the Middle East.