1. Mongol chieftain conquers huge territory

2. Kublai Khan establishes new dynasty in China

3. English monarchy's power is curtailed under Magna Carta

4. Japan survives Mongol threats

5. Much of northern India comes under Muslim control

6. Battling armies take toll on Constantinople

7. Marco Polo reveals wondrous Cathay

8. Mali Empire becomes the strongest in southern Africa

9. Assisi cathedral attracts finest artists in Italy

6. Battling armies take toll on Constantinople

The great city of Constantinople was taken over by Western European crusaders in 1204, temporarily ending hundreds of years of Byzantine control. However, Byzantine forces recaptured the city in 1261. The attacks on Constantinople during this century have caused much damage and increased bitterness between Christians in the Eastern and Western churches.

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