1340s

The 1340s was a decade that began on 1 January 1340 and ended on 31 December 1349. It is distinct from the decade known as the 135th decade which began on January 1, 1341 and ended on December 31, 1350.

 Deaths 
 1346, March 15 – Shah Jalal of Bengal (b. 1271)

 Events and trends 
 The Black Death spreads across Europe.
 The Battle of Sluys is fought between the ships of the navy of the Kingdom of England and those of the Kingdom of France.
 August 26, 1346: Edward III of England defeats Philip VI of France at the Battle of Crécy. This battle is famous for the destruction of the French cavalry by English longbowmen. This was also the first time cannons were used in battle.