1190s

The 1190s was a decade in the Julian calendar that began on January 1, 1190, and ended on December 31, 1199. This period marked the late 12th century, a time of significant political and religious developments across Europe and the Middle East.

In England, the decade saw the continuation of the reign of Richard I. He was heavily involved in the Third Crusade, departing in 1190 and spending much of the decade abroad. His absence led to administrative challenges and increased taxation back home. Upon his return, he faced further conflicts and ultimately met his end in 1199.

The Third Crusade itself was a major event of the 1190s. Following the fall of Jerusalem to Saladin in 1187, European monarchs, including Richard I of England, Philip II of France, and Frederick I, Holy Roman Emperor, launched a large-scale effort to recapture the Holy Land. While the Crusade achieved some military successes, it ultimately failed to retake Jerusalem.

In the Byzantine Empire, the decade was marked by internal strife and the growing influence of Western European powers, foreshadowing later events.

The Islamic world, under leaders like Saladin, continued to consolidate its power in the Levant. Saladin's victory at Hattin and subsequent recapture of Jerusalem were still fresh in memory, and the efforts of the Crusaders to regain territory were a constant concern.

In terms of cultural and intellectual life, the 12th century was a period of growth for universities, and the intellectual currents of the time continued to develop through the 1190s. Scholasticism was a prominent philosophical movement.