The Crusades
 
    Crusades were military expeditions undertaken by some of the Christian nations of Europe with the object of ensuring the safety of pilgrims visiting the Holy Sepulchre and to retain in Christian hands the Holy Places. For almost two centuries nine crusades were undertaken: -
 
No. Years Leader Achievements
1 1095 - 99 Godfrey of Bouillin Captured Jerusalem
2 1147 Louis VIII of France Lost Jerusalem
3 1180 - 92 Richard I of England Truce with Saladin
4 1202 - 04 French & Flemish nobles Set up Latin empire in Constantinople
5 1217 - 21 John of Brienne Achieved nothing
6 1228 - 29 Emperor Fredrick II Achieved nothing
7 1248 - 54 St Louis of France Achieved nothing
8 1270 St Louis of France St Louis died going to Tunis
9 1271 - 72 Prince Edward of England Achieved nothing
 
    Millions of lives and an enormous amount of treasure were sacrificed in these enterprises and Jerusalem remained in the possession of the 'infidels'. The chief material beneficiaries were the Italian maritime cities, the chief spiritual beneficiary was the Pope; and in literature Europe benefitted enormously.

This page hosted by Get your own Free Home Page