Blood Moons

Throughout history, blood moons have often been recorded alongside moments of upheaval. Chroniclers across centuries frequently interpreted the crimson Moon as an omen. Here are some moments in history that coincided with blood moons.

Battle of Arbela (331 BCE)

Before Alexander the Great’s decisive victory over the Persian Empire at the Battle of Arbela (often identified with Gaugamela), ancient accounts describe a lunar eclipse on September 20. The Moon reportedly appeared darkened and blood-red in the night sky, an event interpreted by some contemporaries as a portent before the battle that would reshape the ancient world.

Siege of Syracuse (413 BCE)

During the Peloponnesian War, a total lunar eclipse occurred on August 28 as the Athenian army considered retreating from Sicily. The general Nicias, known for his religious caution, interpreted the eclipse as a bad omen and delayed the withdrawal. The hesitation proved disastrous, leading to one of Athens’ most devastating defeats.

The Fall of Constantinople (1453)

During the Ottoman siege of Constantinople, observers reported a reddish lunar eclipse on May 22. According to later chronicles, the sight appeared to fulfill a local prophecy that the city would fall when the Moon darkened in eclipse. Just days later, the city was captured by Ottoman forces, marking the end of the Byzantine Empire.

The Taiping Rebellion (mid-19th century)

Several eclipses occurred during the turbulent decades of the Taiping Rebellion in China. A total lunar eclipse in 1851 coincided with the rebellion’s escalation, which would ultimately weaken Qing imperial authority. Another eclipse in 1863 occurred amid military campaigns and disruptions involving foreign-led forces during the conflict.

The Balkan Wars (1913)

In 1913, a partial lunar eclipse in the constellation Virgo took place near the end of the Balkan Wars. These conflicts dramatically reshaped southeastern Europe and further accelerated the decline of the Ottoman Empire.