Responses November 1095 to December 1096 (OCR GCSE History B (Schools History Project)): Revision Notes
The People's Crusade and the challenges it faced
As a response to Alexius I, Byzantine Emperor, Pope Urban II announced publicly the call for a Crusade to save the Holy Land from the Seljuk Turks in 1095. Out of different motives, Eastern Christians responded immediately.
Taking of Jerusalem by the Crusaders, 1099, Giraudon, The Bridgeman Art Library
In the late spring of 1096, different crusaders from various places reached Constantinople. With the arrival of large groups of crusaders, Byzantine Emperor Alexius I feared that they would plunder the capital's wealth. As a result, both factions did not get along. To solve the conflict, Alexius I insisted that crusade leaders take an oath of loyalty to him.
All crusade leaders recognised his authority over any land subdued from the Seljuks, except Bohemond.
Byzantine Emperor
Alexius I Komnenos
Role of the Byzantium
Despite the weak relationship of the Byzantine armies and the Crusaders, Alexius I sent a large army of Crusaders to Asia Minor.
- He provided them with supplies and food, but never really joined in the field.
- Alexius I also advised the leaders on how they should deal with the Seljuk Turks.
Struggles
After hearing rumours of defeat at Antioch, Alexius I failed to send military supplies and support.
- Large numbers of crusaders died of famine and diseases.
- Problems in governing and defending Jerusalem.
- It created a great rift between the Christians and Muslims.
Miniature of the Siege of Jerusalem (1099) (14th century, BNF Fr. 22495 fol. 69v). Godfrey of Bouillon using a siege tower to assault the walls.
Task 1
Study the source and then answer the question that follows. Using Source A, describe the role and impact of Urban II in the beginning of the Crusading movement.
All who die by the way, whether by land or by sea, or in battle against the pagans, shall have immediate remission of sins. This I grant them through the power of God with which I am invested. O what a disgrace if such a despised and base race, which worships demons, should conquer a people which has the faith of omnipotent God and is made glorious with the name of Christ! With what reproaches will the Lord overwhelm us if you do not aid those who, with us, profess the Christian religion! Let those who have been accustomed unjustly to wage private warfare against the faithful now go against the infidels and end with victory this war which should have been begun long ago. Let those who for a long time, have been robbers, now become knights.
From the account of Fulcher of Chartres, one of the eyewitnesses during Pope Urban II's speech at the Council of Clermont
Task 2
Source B portrays Pope Urban II preaching at the Council of Clermont. Based on what you've learned about the origins of the First Crusade, explain how influential Pope Urban II was in the birth of the Crusading movement.
Task 3
The birth of the Crusading movement in the 11th century was driven by political, military, economic and cultural issues of the time. Based on your understanding of the historical context, expand and evaluate the factors which led to the birth of the Crusading movement.
