Jacques de Molay
Jacques de Molay was the last Grand Master of the Christian military order Knights Templar. Molay was elected Grandmaster just as the Templars' support from the French monarch was waning. He was unable to lead the Templars through a period of inquisitions and was himself executed in March of 1314 at the order of King Philip IV.
Fast Facts
- Born: 1244 in Rahon, Jura, France
- Notable Position Held: 23rd and last Grand Master of Knights Templar
- Died: March 18, 1314 in Paris
Timeline
- 1244: Born
- April 20, 1292: Elected to Grand Master of Knights Templar
- March 18, 1314: Executed
Knights Templar
The Knights Templar was a Christian military order founded as a security force for pilgrims who flocked to the holy lands of Jerusalem after the first Crusade. After an official endorsement from the church in 1129, the order expanded its influence and membership. As the success of The Crusades waned, so did support for the Knights Templar. The order was disbanded by Pope Clement V at the request of King Philip IV of France, who owed a large debt to the Knights Templar as a result of the crusades. Many members of the order were charged with heresy, tortured, and imprisoned.
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