1240s BC

The 1240s BC is a decade which lasted from 1249 BC to 1240 BC.

Events and trends

 * c. 1240 BC—The Philistines expand their influence into Cyprus and Canaan.
 * c. 1240 BC—The wimble and lathe are invented.

Significant people

 * Merneptah, pharaoh of Egypt, born (approximate date).

In legend

 * 1249 BC—Gideon conquers the Midianites.
 * c. 1240 BC—The Argonauts capture Troy.