The Sicilian Vespers

The Sicilian Vespers was a rebellion in 1282 where the people of Sicily rose up against the oppressive rule of the French Angevin rulers. Frustrated by heavy taxation and cultural differences, the Sicilians launched a violent uprising during Vespers (evening prayers), quickly gaining support across the island. The rebellion expelled the French, leading to a period of independence for Sicily and shifting control to the Kingdom of Aragon (part of Spain). This event significantly altered power dynamics in the Mediterranean and is remembered as a pivotal moment in Sicilian and medieval history.