A fifteenth century depiction of the conquest of Constantinople by the Crusaders in 1204 A.D. (C.E.)

The driving factors of the Crusades are rooted in European policies and religion. As the population grew in Europe, power shifted from the hands of nobility and church leaders to those of the nation-states' monarchs who wished to gain favor in the eyes of the Pope, as well as riches. While these events increased and improved trade, travel, and medicine, they also caused deep historical rifts among religious groups in already unstable regions of Europe. The Crusades that took place during the twelfth and thirteenth centuries started as a mission to protect the city of Constantinople, and mark the beginning of struggles that still plague southwest Asia today. This region is the homeland, or holy land, for Jews, Christians, and Muslims.

 

Extend Your Learning

In the warm-up activity for this topic, you participated in a discussion about whether you believe war is necessary, and also if you could think of alternatives to fighting wars. Now that you have learned about the Crusades, revisit this discussion thread and offer the following insights:

• What was one major reason for the conflicts across Europe and Asia, including the Crusades and the fall of Constantinople?
• Do you believe these conflicts were justified? Why or why not?
• Could Christians and Muslims have resolved their differences in a way that did not involve war? Explain.

Post your responses to these questions in the discussion area. Then, return to the topic discussion several times over the next few days to read your coursemates' posts. Reply to at least two of them, making sure to ask questions and encourage further conversation.