685 - Definition and Overview

Events

• Umayyad caliph Marwan I (684-685) succeeded by Abd al-Malik ibn Marwan (685-705)
• Justinian II succeeds Constantine IV as emperor of the Byzantine Empire
• Sussex attacks Kent, supporting Eadric's claim to the throne held by Hlothhere
• Pope Benedict II succeeded by Pope John V
• Cuthbert consecrated bishop of Lindisfarne
• Battle of Nechtansmere: Picts defeat Northumbrians
• Arabs reach present-day Morocco.

Births

Deaths

• May 20 - Ecgfrith, king of Northumbria (killed in battle)

Heads of states

• Holy See
  • Benedict II pope (684-685)
  • John V pope (685-686)
• Japan - Temmu Emperor of Japan (672-686)