# Great Western Schism begins (1378)

URL: https://history-france.com/timeline/1378-great-western-schism-begins
Location: Avignon / Rome

Rival popes divided Latin Christendom, with France generally supporting the Avignon line. Within the broader Late Medieval France period, The Valois kingdom endured the Hundred Years’ War, plague, civil conflict and English occupation before recovering under Charles VII and Louis XI. Military and fiscal reforms strengthened the crown by the late fifteenth century. At this point in the timeline, the relevant governing authority is Charles V the Wise (King of France). Great Western Schism begins mattered because religion was closely tied to political legitimacy, community identity and public institutions. The event is positioned here so visitors can read it alongside changes in government, warfare, society, religion, culture and France’s wider international setting.

## Why it matters
Great Western Schism begins mattered because religion was closely tied to political legitimacy, community identity and public institutions.

Ruler at the time: [Charles V the Wise](https://history-france.com/rulers/charles-v-the-wise)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia topic lookup — Great Western Schism begins](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=Great+Western+Schism+begins&go=Go)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Great Western Schism begins](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Great+Western+Schism+begins)
- [Wikipedia — Timeline of French history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Timeline_of_French_history)