Human Heritage: A World History

"Crusaders"

Introduction
When Muslim Turks resisted western European Christians' pilgrimages to the holy city of Jerusalem, Christians decided to retake the city. For nearly 200 years, Christians waged holy wars, called Crusades, against the Turks. To analyze the circumstances that brought about the Crusades and what happened during the 200 years of warring, go to The Online Reference Book for Medieval Studies-Crusades Web site.

Destination Title: Crusades

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Directions
Start at the Crusades Web site.

• Browse through the site, taking notes as you go.
• Then answer the following questions.

1			Name two circumstances that contributed to the western European Christians pursuing the Holy War.
2			What person inspired the first Crusade, and how?
3			Describe the people who took part in the Crusades over the course of 200 years.
4			What were "Crusading vows"?
5			Crusaders could expect to be gone from their home for up to one year. Imagine you are going to accompany a crusader who is traveling from England to Jerusalem. On a separate sheet of paper, make a list of the items that you will need to bring with you.