Military Impact of the Crusades
History: KS3, topic 2.3.6
Military Impact of the Crusades
For centuries several Crusades were attempted. However, the Christians were never able to conquer Jerusalem again. Yet, the Europeans did benefit from their interactions with the Islamic Empire.
Muslim counter-attacks
- No Crusade was able to regain the Kingdom of Jerusalem.
- The Muslims were provoked by the series of Crusades and launched counter-attacks.
- For example, in 1453 AD, the Muslims conquered Constantinople.
- By the mid-16th century AD, the Muslims had begun to attack Europe. They had conquered Hungary by 1529 AD.
Castle designs
- Ultimately, we can say that the Muslims were stronger in a political, military, and scientific sense.
- The Europeans were aware of this and adopted Muslim military designs.
- This is seen in how Crusaders developed castle architecture.
- Castles were designed in ‘concentric circles’. This means that castles were built in layers of circles, making them stronger.
Creation of military and religious orders
- The Knights Templar is perhaps the most famous order which was established during the Crusades.
- These knights were in charge of protecting pilgrims as they travelled.
- They also helped look after the wealth of pilgrims, becoming rich as a result.
Test yourself on Military Impact of the Crusades
Did any Crusade regain the Kingdom of Jerusalem?
What was the name of the most famous military order during the Crusades?