Question

Write a short Note:

European Crusades

Answer 1

1. The two cities of Jerusalem and Bethlehem considered holy by the Jews, Christians, and Muslims were under Islamic rule in the 11^th century.
2. Christians of Europe wanted to regain hold over these cities and fought several wars known as the 'Crusades'.
3. The common people in Europe were highly inspired to be part of such religious wars.
4. When the Pope announced that the sins of those who took part in such wars would be forgiven and would immediately go to Heaven, there was spontaneous participation by the common people in the crusades.
5. Besides social and political circumstances, the Roman emperors were also trying to bring Syria and Asia Minor under their control.
6. Moreover, the rich merchants in Genova and Venice in Italy were looking for Central Asian markets to establish their trade.
7. The first crusade started in 1096 C.E.
8. A second call for the crusade was given by Pope Eugenius III who sought help from the French King Louis VII and the German King Conrad III.
9. The crusades were ultimately defeated by the Turks and in 1187 C.E. Saladin, the Sultan of Egypt defeated the crusades by conquering Jerusalem.
10. However, the crusades failed for several reasons such as the attitude of the Pope and the European rulers common people losing faith, the rift between the Pope and the European kings, etc. Some historians feel that the crusades led to the end of feudalism.