King James I of Aragon launched a major offensive against the Muslim-controlled island of Majorca in 1229, culminating in the Battle of Portopí in September and the eventual conquest of the island by the end of the year. This conquest was a key event in the Christian Reconquista, expanding the Crown of Aragon's influence into the western Mediterranean. The takeover of Majorca led to the establishment of a new kingdom and the Christianization of the island's population.

James I's conquest of Majorca was celebrated in the Llibre dels fets, an autobiographical chronicle written in Catalan, which is one of the earliest examples of vernacular prose historiography in Europe. The chronicle provides a vivid first-hand account of the military campaign and its aftermath, blending personal narrative with political propaganda. This work set a precedent for royal autobiography and influenced the development of Catalan literature and historical writing.