Introduction (Edexcel A-Level History): Revision Notes

Introduction

The story of Baldwin IV

The introduction to the Crusader States of Outremer begins with a powerful anecdote that illustrates the fragility of political stability in this region. William of Tyre, a chronicler who documented events in Outremer, recounted a revealing story about a young boy under his care who would later become King Baldwin IV.

William was greatly impressed by the boy's intellect and character. During a childhood game that became rough, with boys pinching and digging their nails into each other's arms, most children cried out in pain. However, the young future king endured the discomfort without complaint. Initially, William interpreted this as a sign of exceptional strength and leadership potential—evidence that the boy would become a great ruler.

The tragic diagnosis

Wider significance

This diagnosis had profound political consequences beyond the personal tragedy. Baldwin IV's leprosy would create such deep divisions within Outremer's political structure that it essentially opened the door for Muslim invasion. This story serves as a microcosm of Outremer's vulnerability—how personal circumstances of leadership could have dramatic consequences for the entire crusader enterprise.

The world of Outremer

The introduction sets the scene for understanding a unique historical situation. Frankish settlers did not view Outremer as a temporary military occupation—they lived out their entire lives in this conquered landscape. This was their permanent home, making the stability and defense of these territories essential to their survival.

Key themes to be examined:

• How the Franks established and organized different states in the region
• The ways they utilized the geography and economic opportunities of their position in the eastern Mediterranean world to sustain their settlements
• The evolution of defense systems, from reliance on rulers to the development of military orders and alliances
• The trajectory of government in Outremer, which began with strong, effective leadership but gradually became divided and weakened

The four crusader states

Outremer was not a single unified territory but was divided into four separate crusader states:

1. Edessa
2. Antioch
3. Tripoli
4. Jerusalem

Hierarchical structure

Timeline of key developments

The introduction includes several crucial events that shaped the early history of the crusader states:

Early consolidation (1100-1101)

In November 1100, Baldwin, who had been Count of Edessa, was crowned as King Baldwin I of Jerusalem. This established royal authority in the most important crusader state. The following year, in 1101, the process of territorial consolidation began with the acquisition of Arsuf and Caesarea, expanding the territories under crusader control.

Strengthening defenses (1115-1119)

In 1115, a strategically important castle called Montreal was constructed to increase control over the kingdom of Jerusalem. This fortress would later demonstrate the strength of crusader defensive architecture by holding out against attack for eighteen months. In 1119, the Templar movement began under the leadership of Hugh of Payns, marking the start of the militarized religious orders that would become central to Outremer's defense.

Royal succession and military orders (1131-1136)

April 1131 saw Queen Melisende and Fulk become joint rulers of Jerusalem, representing an important period of shared monarchy. By 1136, the Hospitaller movement had become militarized and was granted control of the Castle of Beitgibelin, paralleling the Templars' development as a military force.

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