Today In History logo TIH
Vladislaus was nineteen years old. He'd broken a peace treaty to launch this cru
1444 Event

November 10

Battle of Varna: Crusaders Defeated, King Killed, Ottomans Advance

Vladislaus was nineteen years old. He'd broken a peace treaty to launch this crusade, gambling everything on a decisive blow against the Ottomans near the Black Sea coast. Sultan Murad II crushed him completely. The king's head ended up on a pike, displayed in Bursa. And that broken treaty mattered — it convinced many Christian rulers that crusading promises couldn't be trusted. The Ottomans held southeastern Europe for centuries afterward. One teenager's reckless charge didn't just lose a battle. It ended the last real chance to push the Turks back.

November 10, 1444

582 years ago

Key Figures & Places

What Else Happened on November 10

Talk to History

Have a conversation with historical figures who witnessed this era. Ask questions, explore perspectives, and bring history to life.

Start Talking