Background of Crusades
The First Crusade, which started the Crusades as a historical period, was spearheaded by Pope Urban II, who held office from 1088 until 1099.
Before the Crusades, Christian access to the Holy Land was restricted by Muslim Seljuk Turks who had advanced into Byzantine territory.
A direct spark for the First Crusade came from the petition for military support against the Turks made by Alexios I Komnenos, the Byzantine emperor, to the Pope.
Also Read: List of Top 10 Major Wars in the World
Crusades: Definition, History, Significance
The Crusades were known as the series of long and numerous wars between Christian countries of Europe and Muslim nations of the Middle East The Crusades had multiple causes, not just only religion. Besides the desire to explore new places, Europeans also attempted to conquer the Eastern Mediterranean due to their control over the Silk Road, a valuables trade route.
In this article, we will learn about the Crusades and the impacts they left behind!